beltingbaritone, thanks for posting that link. That was a really fascinating panel discussion. All four of them were really thoughtful and open about their experiences. It was much more thought-provoking and genuine than most interviews.
I'm not sure that I agree, though, that Bebe Neuwirth should have found someone saying, "I didn't know Lilith could dance" was offensive. The person is trying to be complimentary by making a joke -- maybe it came out awkward, but the person is trying to give her a compliment. Lilith was a very uptight character, who would never dance. And for better or worse, Bebe is known by most people for portraying Lilith. She can wish it wasn't true, but it is. It doesn't mean that the person saying that thinks she is Lilith. (Although I found it interesting when Alice Ripley said that a lot of people at the stage door for Next to Normal had a hard time understanding that she is not Diana and didn't go through those issues herself.)
I was wondering what people think about the other idea mentioned, that even just saying, "I loved you in Frasier," is offensive and somehow dismissive of the current role. I wouldn't want to be offensive by bringing up a prior role in an offensive manner. What are good ways of praising a previous portrayal in a non-offensive way?
"What was the name of that cheese that I like?"
"you can't run away forever...but there's nothing wrong with getting a good head start"
"well I hope and I pray, that maybe someday, you'll walk in the room with my heart"