It was an awesome perfomance. I think it was the best thing I've seen in my entire life. The cast was flawless, the audience was terrific (rock concert cheers greeted each act, a standing ovation began at the final blackout). Patti added high kicks to her tuba playing, also with great cheers. Sad, though, that it was on TKTS, still not sold out, a half hour before the curtain.
There was a 10 minute standing ovation following the bows, before the speeches even started. Roses were thrown to the cast. Michael and Patti made very nice speeches, thanking everyone involved, from John Doyle to Stephen Sondheim, who was in the 5th row (I had a very nice 2 minute converstaion with him). Patti was sobbing through her speech, prompting someone to scream out "We Love You Patti." Michael expressed his gratitude to the audience, beginning with "Some of you have been here before...." They brought out the standbys, with a special shout out to Merwin Foard, who "was the most underused talent in the cast."
The stage door scene was a madhouse. Patti was one of the first people out, signed autographs and took pictures. Lauren sold her last 3 t-shirts (1 to me) and poster prints. Michael and Mano were last out and were delighful. Michael's very good looking assistant (or girlfriend) was there with Gibson the dog, who loved the crowd.
I will never forget this night.
Updated On: 9/4/06 at 12:14 AM
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