RagtimeRay said: "goldenboy said: "Saw Donna Murphy tonight. Donna's Dolly was more real, funny, warm, more manipulative and in charge and totally believable. You were watching Dolly Levi up there. Donna sang and danced impeccably and was technically a better Dolly if lacking the superstar excitement of Bette. Donna reminded me of one part Mary Martin; one part Shirley Booth; one part Fanny Brice and one part Zazu Pitts. Donna was a totally belieivable and wonderful Dolly. . Donna owned that stage as did Bette. It was just a different experience; The only thing missing was the superstar excitement of seeing Bette Midler. It was Superstar Bette versus consummate musical theatre performer Donna Murphy. Both are great Dolly's and I'm glad I saw them both."
I agree with what everyone has had to say about Donna's performance: she gives Dolly something of a New York edge (and accent) -- after all, this is a woman who is hustling for every last dime she can make. Donna was funny, touching, goofy, radiant. And in GREAT voice. I saw Bette and loved her. Now I've seen Donna and I loved her, too. So did last night's audience. Everyone involved in the production was going at full throttle, and it was a total joy. A British couple sitting next to me knew that Bette wouldn't be on, but decided to give it a go. They told me that had the time of their lives. Given the real-life passing of Donna's husband, "Before the Parade Passes By" took on extra significance, and out came my handkerchief. Don't miss it!
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