Just saw a regional production of Aida starring Montego Glover at Music Theater of Wichita and I must say, she was wonderful.
She doesn't have the sardonic line readings or jaw-dropping gospel belt of Paulette Ivory, nor does she have the the pissed-off princess hauteur of Simone.
But she does have a beautiful traditional Broadway mezzo soprano and her acting is skillful and surprisingly nuanced. And despite being just a little slip of a woman, she holds the stage like no other. And she's so likable and charismatic. Her Aida is warmer than any I've seen and she wins audience sympathy almost immediately. I guess you'd say she has genuine star quality.
And she is in UNREAL shape. The outfit she wears from the the "Not Me" number through the end of Act one was a little dress that can best be described as princess bondage chic. But she pulled it off and looked sexy instead of sleazy.
If the rumors about Aida finally opening on the West End are true, she'd be a great candidate.
And getting back on topic, I think she would have fit in well with trio consisting of her, Jeremy Kushnier and Lisa Brecia.
Updated On: 8/8/05 at 08:20 PM