#26
Posted: 11/19/05 at 11:33pm
The show reminded me of 42nd Street - lots of cool production numbers, a sweet throw-back to the old, old days of mindless musicals.
Drowsy Chaperone Premier — Page 2
#27
Posted: 11/19/05 at 11:43pm
I would almost compare it to "City of Angels," in that as wonderful as Cy Coleman's jazzy score was, it took a back seat to the innovation of the concept.
It's the same case here with The Drowsy Chaperone.
It's the same case here with The Drowsy Chaperone.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
#28
Posted: 11/20/05 at 9:14am
I commented on this after seeing the first preview. The danger in marketing this show is if people avoid it by thinking it's just another boring re-creation of an "old" sounding musical. THAT IS NOT WHAT THIS MUSICAL IS.
It is something entirely original and totally inventive.
The great news is that I went back again on opening night, knowing all its secrets, and the show was actually BETTER for it. In fact, now I want to see it again. It's that good. It's just so amazingly brilliant. But aside from its brilliance, it's profoundly MOVING, and TOUCHING and has an earned sweetness about it that only a hardcore cynic could not love.
This is a show clearly written by people who are IN LOVE with musical theatre, who KNOW musical theatre and who know exactly what buttons to push to have you laughing and crying and grinning so hard, that its robustness carries over into the next day.
I'll say it again. Yes, it's that good.
Steve Schalchlin
Composer/lyricist
The Last Session
The Big Voice: God or Merman?
Winner of the 2005 Ovation for Best Musical, Intimate Theatre
It is something entirely original and totally inventive.
The great news is that I went back again on opening night, knowing all its secrets, and the show was actually BETTER for it. In fact, now I want to see it again. It's that good. It's just so amazingly brilliant. But aside from its brilliance, it's profoundly MOVING, and TOUCHING and has an earned sweetness about it that only a hardcore cynic could not love.
This is a show clearly written by people who are IN LOVE with musical theatre, who KNOW musical theatre and who know exactly what buttons to push to have you laughing and crying and grinning so hard, that its robustness carries over into the next day.
I'll say it again. Yes, it's that good.
Steve Schalchlin
Composer/lyricist
The Last Session
The Big Voice: God or Merman?
Winner of the 2005 Ovation for Best Musical, Intimate Theatre
#29
Posted: 11/20/05 at 9:57am
steveshack---I'm glad to hear you say that! I definitely want to go back and revisit this again... but I was wondering what the experience would be like, now that I "know all the secrets." The fact that you actually found it BETTER is a relief, and maybe even a surprise.
Perhaps I'm overreacting to tell people on these boards to "go in cold," or you'll ruin what is likely to be one of the best, most personal experiences you'll ever have in the theatre.
I agree there is a danger in marketing the show the way they are doing... you really can't tell what it is from the ads. It looks very simple and straight-forward. But the word of mouth on this is going to spread so fast, especially when it hits New York, the sold out status should kick in quickly. It's what got me into the theatre yesterday. Your reaction to it, and others. I said, "Okay, I gotta see what the fuss is about, because from the ads I'm just not seeing it."
So glad I took that risk and went in cold. The payoff was huge. (So was the pay-out... I had to buy a last-minute, full-price single ticket, but I had a GREAT seat. No regrets, though. This show is worth every penny.)
EDIT: I was profoundly moved and touched as well. I venture to say that EVERYONE who posts on this board will feel the same.
Perhaps I'm overreacting to tell people on these boards to "go in cold," or you'll ruin what is likely to be one of the best, most personal experiences you'll ever have in the theatre.
I agree there is a danger in marketing the show the way they are doing... you really can't tell what it is from the ads. It looks very simple and straight-forward. But the word of mouth on this is going to spread so fast, especially when it hits New York, the sold out status should kick in quickly. It's what got me into the theatre yesterday. Your reaction to it, and others. I said, "Okay, I gotta see what the fuss is about, because from the ads I'm just not seeing it."
So glad I took that risk and went in cold. The payoff was huge. (So was the pay-out... I had to buy a last-minute, full-price single ticket, but I had a GREAT seat. No regrets, though. This show is worth every penny.)
EDIT: I was profoundly moved and touched as well. I venture to say that EVERYONE who posts on this board will feel the same.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
Updated On: 11/20/05 at 09:57 AM
#30
Posted: 11/20/05 at 10:27am
What is the significance of the name of the show? The name "Drowsy Chaperone" kinda bugs me for some reason.
#31
Posted: 11/20/05 at 10:34am
morosco --- It wouldn't really give away anything important to tell you what it is... but I think you should go in with EXACTLY that reaction to the title.
"What the hell is that anway? I've never heard of this thing before. It kinda bugs me."
This is a perfect set-up for you to have an incredible experience at the theatre.
"What the hell is that anway? I've never heard of this thing before. It kinda bugs me."
This is a perfect set-up for you to have an incredible experience at the theatre.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
#32
Posted: 11/20/05 at 10:40am
I haven't been this intrigued about a musical since CITY OF ANGELS. DROWSY CHAPERONE sounds like a rarity...an intelligent and completely original musical. Can't wait to see it!
#33
Posted: 11/20/05 at 10:52am
morosco --- Your assessment is correct. You won't be disappointed.
Happy viewing... whenever that may be!
Happy viewing... whenever that may be!
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
#34
Posted: 11/20/05 at 1:59pm
I saw the show yesterday and LOVED it. I am not sure whether it will be a commercial hit, however. I just don't think Broadway audiences nowadays can appreciate a good old-fashioned show.
"It does what a musical is supposed to do; it takes you to another world. And it gives you a little tune to carry in your head. Something to take you away from the dreary horrors of the real world. A little something for when you're feeling blue. You know?"
#35
Posted: 11/20/05 at 2:01pm
I saw the show last night and loved it. Truly original. But I have a question, what are these "secrets" you're talking about that you'd already if you saw it again. I'd think the expierience would be the same your first time or your fifth time.
#36
Posted: 11/20/05 at 2:25pm
QMAN03 --- I really can't answer your question without giving too much away here. I'll say this again... the show's CONCEPT is not generally known. It's not advertised to give it away, either.
I'll be happy to go into details when more people have had the chance to see it. But that's all I can say without RUINING many innovative elements for some of the people who will be very impacted by what they see.
I'm not saying the show is ground-breaking (ala "Oklahoma!" "Hair", etc.), but it is innovative beyond anything I've seen in years.
EDIT: My original intent was to come back here to this board and post a review. I have chosen not to, because to review the elements of the show would be to take away a very special experience for many. I don't see that as fair.
I'll be happy to go into details when more people have had the chance to see it. But that's all I can say without RUINING many innovative elements for some of the people who will be very impacted by what they see.
I'm not saying the show is ground-breaking (ala "Oklahoma!" "Hair", etc.), but it is innovative beyond anything I've seen in years.
EDIT: My original intent was to come back here to this board and post a review. I have chosen not to, because to review the elements of the show would be to take away a very special experience for many. I don't see that as fair.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
Updated On: 11/20/05 at 02:25 PM
#37
Posted: 11/20/05 at 3:33pm
>I have a question, what are these "secrets" you're talking about that you'd already if you saw it again.
I guess the term "secrets" is probably incorrect. I went in assuming I was going to see nothing more than a 20's musical, except written by someone now rather than then. I was so ho-hum about the idea, that I even told someone I was with, "I'm not expecting much. I hate old music."
What I wasn't prepared for was the framework of the show. How it was presented. It was such a delightful surprise, and so wittily written, that I wanted everyone to have the same experience (virginal) that I did. But now, having seen it twice, I see that it's really not necessary. The show stands on its own even knowing what it actually is.
There is a fuller review/explanation of the show over on the Talkin' Broadway All That Chat West Coast Board for those who really want to know more.
Steve
I guess the term "secrets" is probably incorrect. I went in assuming I was going to see nothing more than a 20's musical, except written by someone now rather than then. I was so ho-hum about the idea, that I even told someone I was with, "I'm not expecting much. I hate old music."
What I wasn't prepared for was the framework of the show. How it was presented. It was such a delightful surprise, and so wittily written, that I wanted everyone to have the same experience (virginal) that I did. But now, having seen it twice, I see that it's really not necessary. The show stands on its own even knowing what it actually is.
There is a fuller review/explanation of the show over on the Talkin' Broadway All That Chat West Coast Board for those who really want to know more.
Steve
#38
Posted: 11/20/05 at 4:44pm
I would heartily agree, that half the fun is how the evening itself unfolds, and the less you know, the more involving it is. Do us all a favor, just go see it. Let the 'Man in the Chair' escort you on a most magical journey that will renew your faith in theater, musicals, mankind and life itself.
"The Drowsy Chaperone" will wake up your heart and have it singing and dancing down the 101!
Go already!
"The Drowsy Chaperone" will wake up your heart and have it singing and dancing down the 101!
Go already!
#39
Posted: 11/20/05 at 4:52pm
Are they aiming for this season on Broadway or next?
#41
Posted: 11/20/05 at 8:11pm
Here's a link to Talkin' Broadway's review of the show. While it doesn't appear that too many secrets are revealed in the review...read only the first paragraph if you want to see the show cold.
Talkin' Broadway
Talkin' Broadway
#42
Posted: 11/20/05 at 8:21pm
This is all very exciting to read. I can't wait for this to come to Broadway.
#43
Posted: 11/21/05 at 1:53pm
The LA Times gave it a very good review and really liked Sutton Foster:
"Foster was a winning presence in the 2002 bauble "Thoroughly Modern Millie" (which won her a Tony), but this number is a career-defining moment. "The Drowsy Chaperone" hopes to move on to Broadway — and if it does, one can safely bet that Foster and "Show Off" will be a centerpiece number at the Tony Awards ceremony next June."
I am looking forward to seeing this on the 6th.
Everything old is skewed again in fun 'Chaperone'
"Foster was a winning presence in the 2002 bauble "Thoroughly Modern Millie" (which won her a Tony), but this number is a career-defining moment. "The Drowsy Chaperone" hopes to move on to Broadway — and if it does, one can safely bet that Foster and "Show Off" will be a centerpiece number at the Tony Awards ceremony next June."
I am looking forward to seeing this on the 6th.
Everything old is skewed again in fun 'Chaperone'
Updated On: 11/21/05 at 01:53 PM
#44
Posted: 11/21/05 at 2:02pm
The show is definitely a "must-see" for all musical theatre lovers. As my friend Sharon wrote in her review, it's a love letter to people who love musicals.
I wonder, however, if the cynical NY critics will embrace it.
I wonder, however, if the cynical NY critics will embrace it.
"It does what a musical is supposed to do; it takes you to another world. And it gives you a little tune to carry in your head. Something to take you away from the dreary horrors of the real world. A little something for when you're feeling blue. You know?"
#45
Posted: 11/21/05 at 2:12pm
Maybe I'm being overly protective here... but AGAIN...
I would really warn people against reading too much about this show in advance.
The cast is excellent. Many performing awards will be doled out, guaranteed. But I don't think you need to know this going in. You will be very surprised by what the cast is able to do with these terrific parts. That's part of the fun. NOT knowing who has a showstopper already, etc. Just go in and be dazzled.
I would really warn people against reading too much about this show in advance.
The cast is excellent. Many performing awards will be doled out, guaranteed. But I don't think you need to know this going in. You will be very surprised by what the cast is able to do with these terrific parts. That's part of the fun. NOT knowing who has a showstopper already, etc. Just go in and be dazzled.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
#46
Posted: 11/21/05 at 2:54pm
If the revival of Sweet Charity (don't get me started) can be a "mild" hit on Broadway, The Drowsy Chaperone will be a monster.
If you're in LA and haven't seen it, grab those Hot Tix at $20 each -- we were in the last row of the balcony and (with binoculars) didn't miss a thing. Great sound in the
Ahmanson.
Can't say enough about this show. I thought that I had seen everything. I was wrong.
If you're in LA and haven't seen it, grab those Hot Tix at $20 each -- we were in the last row of the balcony and (with binoculars) didn't miss a thing. Great sound in the
Ahmanson.
Can't say enough about this show. I thought that I had seen everything. I was wrong.
#47
Posted: 11/21/05 at 3:24pm
I just want to agree with everything that was said about this show. Wonderful and hilarious cast. Very good score and lyrics. Reminds me of something I heard about Anything Goes, that the audience hums and sings in the streets after the show! It's a must-see and I hope it does go to Broadway (after I see it a couple more times here in LA in December)!
#48
Posted: 11/21/05 at 3:26pm
Here's a discount code:
TICKETS: Call 213-628-2772
or click here for access to our specially priced tickets online.
* To take advantage of our special ticket offer, mention when you call or enter online promotion code #6683. Offer applies to any available seat, except in Center Orchestra section, for performances through Sunday, November 27, 2005 only. Does not apply to previously purchased tickets and cannot be combined with any other offer.
I sat left orchestra row R, no problem...great seats.
TICKETS: Call 213-628-2772
or click here for access to our specially priced tickets online.
* To take advantage of our special ticket offer, mention when you call or enter online promotion code #6683. Offer applies to any available seat, except in Center Orchestra section, for performances through Sunday, November 27, 2005 only. Does not apply to previously purchased tickets and cannot be combined with any other offer.
I sat left orchestra row R, no problem...great seats.
Updated On: 11/21/05 at 03:26 PM
#49
Posted: 11/21/05 at 7:35pm
Thank you to one and all for talking about this show, I am so bummed that I can't get out on the West Coast to see it. Hopefully it will make it to Broadway.
I have been out of touch with Beth Leavel for months now, and haven't updated her site in some time, busy that I am. At least now I have some news to put up and hopefully over the holiday season, I will get the chance.
Here's hoping it makes it to Broadway! :)
I have been out of touch with Beth Leavel for months now, and haven't updated her site in some time, busy that I am. At least now I have some news to put up and hopefully over the holiday season, I will get the chance.
Here's hoping it makes it to Broadway! :)
"Sticks and stones, sister. Here, have a Valium!"
#50
Posted: 11/21/05 at 7:45pm
I will adhere to the "don't reveal too much cause it will ruin it" theme, but here's some excerpts from Variety review.
"The Drowsy Chaperone," an homage to the melodic, slapsticky musicals of the 1920s, emits enough intoxicating charm for just about anyone to get drunk on.
Playing at the Ahmanson on its way to New York, this delectable show...is a show lover's show, and plenty of its patrons should find it positively inebriating.
The most essential element in this show's success is not the glitz and the glamour but the guide. Bob Martin, who also co-wrote the book with Don McKellar, plays the sad-sack narrator, and it really is a breakout role.
This is an elaborate show, and first-time director Casey Nicholaw (who choreographed "Monty Python's Spamalot") manages to keep it all crystal clear and humming along.
He's helped enormously by David Gallo's ever-inventive set design...It's all one big paean to theatrical imagination.
This is its U.S. debut, and its commercial appeal is unquestionable. It's certainly an awful lot tighter and polished than "Thoroughly Modern Millie," another example of a 1920s tribute, was in its Southern California tryout. And overall, "The Drowsy Chaperone" is a more satisfying show than "Millie," equally mood-lifting but less problematic.
There are, as always, limitations. The one of most concern is the score, from Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison. Not that it's bad; it's actually very good. It just never quite soars.
There are great numbers -- the tap-dancing "Cold Feets," Foster's showstopper "Show Off," Drowsy's anthem "As We Stumble Along." But this is the one element that could use a touch less self-consciousness.
The cast is eminently game, each performance topping the next. If one trumps all others for its sheer over-the-top deliciousness, it's Burstein as Aldolpho.
And, of course, "every-fan" Martin, who's so easy to identify with, so infectiously entertained by it all, so sad and yet so happy, that it's almost worth getting into a bad mood before coming to "The Drowsy Chaperone" just so he can help cure it.
"The Drowsy Chaperone," an homage to the melodic, slapsticky musicals of the 1920s, emits enough intoxicating charm for just about anyone to get drunk on.
Playing at the Ahmanson on its way to New York, this delectable show...is a show lover's show, and plenty of its patrons should find it positively inebriating.
The most essential element in this show's success is not the glitz and the glamour but the guide. Bob Martin, who also co-wrote the book with Don McKellar, plays the sad-sack narrator, and it really is a breakout role.
This is an elaborate show, and first-time director Casey Nicholaw (who choreographed "Monty Python's Spamalot") manages to keep it all crystal clear and humming along.
He's helped enormously by David Gallo's ever-inventive set design...It's all one big paean to theatrical imagination.
This is its U.S. debut, and its commercial appeal is unquestionable. It's certainly an awful lot tighter and polished than "Thoroughly Modern Millie," another example of a 1920s tribute, was in its Southern California tryout. And overall, "The Drowsy Chaperone" is a more satisfying show than "Millie," equally mood-lifting but less problematic.
There are, as always, limitations. The one of most concern is the score, from Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison. Not that it's bad; it's actually very good. It just never quite soars.
There are great numbers -- the tap-dancing "Cold Feets," Foster's showstopper "Show Off," Drowsy's anthem "As We Stumble Along." But this is the one element that could use a touch less self-consciousness.
The cast is eminently game, each performance topping the next. If one trumps all others for its sheer over-the-top deliciousness, it's Burstein as Aldolpho.
And, of course, "every-fan" Martin, who's so easy to identify with, so infectiously entertained by it all, so sad and yet so happy, that it's almost worth getting into a bad mood before coming to "The Drowsy Chaperone" just so he can help cure it.
Tickets From $59
Tickets From $59
Tickets From $59
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