Benanti is the weak link. Better after she's an "adult", but still nothing special. As younger Louise, is trying way too hard to be "young" and it comes off disingenuous.
There was no program so I don't know all the names, but the biggest star to come out of the night (I'm not counting Patti here) is whoever plays Dainty June. Fabulous. Great singer, really really good actress. She brings a fresh perspective which I loved.
Boyd Gaines as Herbie was wonderful - my second favorite Herbie after Hadary. He really "gets it." From beginning to end.
Jim Bracchitta, who was in my production of GYPSY (1989 revival) is back again, this time as Uncle Jocko - what fun to see him.
The kids are all very good - Baby June is on pointe! - and the grown farmboys are hilarious, every single one. Tony Yazbeck is an okay Tulsa.
The strippers - Alison Fraser, who I've never liked in anything up till now, is f'ing perfection as Tessie Tura. Marilyn Caskey is underplayed genius as Electra. Nancy Opel brings nothing new nor special to Mazeppa, a bit of a disappointment, but she is very good as Miss Cratchitt.
Patti is PERFECT. Rose's Turn is an entire show in itself - and the final scene is played as I've never seen it - she's the first Rose I've seen to play it as it should be played. I don't want to spoil it for those who don't know the show, so I'll stop there. I will say that she got an immediate standing ovation after Rose's Turn. Standing, cheering, screaming, whistling, lengthy ovation.
Arthur Laurents walked out to make the pre-curtain speech, and was greeted with a lengthy standing ovation of his own. It was a very exciting evening, and I urge anyone who's considering buying a ticket to do so immediately. I'll be seeing it again.
Have I ever shown you my Shattered Dreams box? It's in my Disappointment Closet. - Marge Simpson
Updated On: 7/9/07 at 12:11 AM