HELLO, DOLLY! Previews — Page 31

I saw this last night from the balcony. First off, the production is first rate. The set kept surprising and surprising. I loved it from a design/direction standpoint. I don't know where they're storing all those sets!

I'm not sure I was super taken by Midler's Dolly. I think I'd rather see someone who can really hit those notes in the role. But she was funny. But, to me, she played it like I'd expect her to play it. There weren't any really surprising moments for me. I think the girl playing Minnie really delivered. She was fantastic.

I'm def. going to go back to see Donna Murphy because now I'm just curious to see another take on it and maybe that will help me appreciate Midler more.

I hear you Ripped Man. But next to Barbara Cook...Bette is my all-time heroine! This huge fan was driven solely by her star power. Now I do want to See Donna in role. I have a pretty good recording but have heard she looks fab too. I managed to send a short tweet to Ms Murphy and actually got a very short "Thank you" back. I tweeted a complement from something I just saw her do on youtube. For Sondheim's birthday at Lincoln center in 2011. She plus a few others wearing red. "Leave You" from Follies.

If I were living in NYC I would view a second time with Donna Murphy. I would never tire of seeing Bette in it again. There are still many who have or will come see Bette in the role. Many are Fans of Bette...many are probably not..

Unfortunately, it wouldn't be nearly as successful as it is. A huge percentage of the audience is drawn to the show for Bette, nothing more. But once inside, magic hits and they realize just how wonderful this show is and why it is a classic. Boom.

The understudy for Kate Baldwin was Analisa Leaming. I saw the production on Wednesday evening and thought Ms. Leaming was simply divine. Her voice was gorgeous and I prefer her Ribbons Down My Back to Baldwin's on the recording.

I saw the understudy as well, and hope to get back to see Donna and Kate on Tuesday.

I only know Midler from "Hocus Pocus" and while it is one of my favorite movies, she's not the "idol" that I think she is for some people. Totally fine, I get that. But I did find her interesting, but to me, her shtick and humor didn't quite land. For instance, her table eating bit. It was funny and I could appreciate it for what it was, but I wasn't barreled over the way some people were. I think Lupone and Ebersole are giving more interesting performances, to be honest.

But that said, Donna is one of my favorites. Her "Will I Leave You?" from Follies is one of my favorites, and I've watched her "I Read" from Passion way too many times to count, so I'm excited to see her in a comedic performance.

I think Analisa Leaming made her Irene Molloy debut tonight! (And if it wasn't, Donna was super friendly by stepping aside and giving her another bow at the end!!) I was initially sad about missing Kate Baldwin who was sensational a month ago, but Analisa was magnificent in every way, and acted like she had been performing the role for ages. Her voice, chemistry, and poise blended together as an unforgettable and truly wonderful performance. Can't wait for her to be a leading lady of her own one day, and not always the back up!

Does Taylor Trench wear a wig or has he let his hair grow?

FYI three's a non-premium orchestra seat for tonight's performance ...

Also August 9 and August 18 ...

CT2NYC: I've been trying to log onto Telecharge all morning with no luck. You haven't had any problems? Thx!

Bette Midler continues her love fest. Last night, I was lucky enough to be in the 2nd row. There were 2 small boys in front of me in the 1st row. And as Bette took her curtain call, she saw them and reached down to shake their hands. They were a bit hesitant at first, looked over at their Mom and Dad, who nodded to them, and they reached out and shook her hand. I had tears down my face. I know I've gone on about this production on this board, but I tell you, it's a miracle elixir.

Honestly what a magical production. If I could see the show again, I would, but for now that one performance was good enough. Having seen both Donna and Bette (through unconventional ways, I suppose), both of their performances are good. They both have little differences that are charming, like Bette uses movement for humor and Donna is more of a facial expression/joking kind of Dolly.

EthelMae said: "CT2NYC: I've been trying to log onto Telecharge all morning with no luck. You haven't had any problems? Thx!

I checked on the app, not the website, and seats are still available on there. If you can't access the website, just call 212-239-6200.