I just read the press release, and there's an element of it that seems to be really trying way too hard to be massively inclusive and PC.
It seems that all they really need to do is add back in some existing dialogue to properly explain Jo's gender identity. Why is the production hiring a team of dramaturges (which they specify includes trans, non-binary, and BIPOC writers) to fix something that simple?
Broadway Legend Joined: 12/31/69
jonartdesigns said: "It seems that all they really need to do is add back in some existing dialogue to properly explain Jo's gender identity."
It should also be totally fine to have a character whose specific gender identity is not overtly spelled out. In an ideal world, people can just exist as they are, and they shouldn't have to be constantly projecting where they fall on the spectrum so that other people can understand them.
I would have thought the outraged folks would also feel this way, but instead they seem absolutely laser-focused on the specific genders of both the character and the actress playing them.
Broadway Star Joined: 3/27/19
jonartdesigns said: "I just read the press release, and there's an element of it that seems to be really trying way too hard to be massively inclusive and PC.
It seems that all they really need to do is add back in some existing dialogue to properly explain Jo's gender identity. Why is the production hiring a team of dramaturges (which they specify includes trans, non-binary, and BIPOC writers) to fix something that simple?"
because its purely performative placating. its not actually about making a substantive change or dealing with any legitimate issue.
and the Peter Rabbit clip? of animated talking bunny rabbits? is pretty rough stuff? and would trigger kids with allergies? lol. i've got some pretty serious allergies, and my sister's been hospitalized for hers, and let me reiterate: lol.
Artists need to stop apologizing and/or revising their work because it does or might offend a few people for whatever reason. And they need to stop doing it immediately before it becomes the accepted norm.
Just thinking about all the amazing works of art over the years be it photos, film, etc. that outraged people. Can you imagine if the creators decided to go back and revise/edit them for a handful of kids who have nothing better to do than find things to be outraged about?
I think if some children online told me they were mad about something I had written into a Broadway show, I would simply ignore them.
They're not going to pay for a ticket anyways. They're just going to watch the b**tleg, so I really don't care what they think.
ctorres23 said: "jonartdesigns said: "It seems that all they really need to do is add back in some existing dialogue to properly explain Jo's gender identity."
It should also be totally fine to have a character whose specific gender identity is not overtly spelled out. In an ideal world, people can just exist as they are, and they shouldn't have to be constantly projecting where they fall on the spectrum so that other people can understand them.
I would have thought the outraged folks would also feel this way, but instead they seem absolutely laser-focused on the specific genders of both the character and the actress playing them."
THIS. A character who is non-gender specific is super important and should be celebrated. It's so disappointing that people get off on attacking art because it doesn't check off every box THEY want. Make your own damn art then.
Honestly have no clue who their Mary Jane is based on that photo. Deanne Stewart is in there, but it doesn't indicate if she's Frankie or not.
Jordan Catalano said: "Artists need to stop apologizing and/or revising their work because it does or might offend a few people for whatever reason. And they need to stop doing it immediately before it becomes the accepted norm.
Just thinking about all the amazing works of art over the years be it photos, film, etc. that outraged people. Can you imagine if the creators decided to go back and revise/edit them for a handful of kids who have nothing better to do than find things to be outraged about?"
I agree with this to an extent. I’m proud of Patten for kind of standing her ground here. She didn’t do anything wrong, and to be honest, she doesn’t explicitly apologize in the video, she just explains herself.
ACL2006 said: "Honestly have no clue who their Mary Jane is based on that photo. Deanne Stewart is in there, but it doesn't indicate if she's Frankie or not."
Wren Rivera is tagged in an Instagram post as being onstage at the event today. They're in the show it would seem. Plus Janine DeVita. Trying to decipher or find more clues! I love this until they formally announce the cast.
Broadwaygirl, I, in no way, place any of this blame on Patten. I feel like she’s taking so much sh*t for something totally out of her control.
Jordan Catalano said: "Broadwaygirl, I, in no way, place any of this blame on Patten. I feel like she’s taking so much sh*t for something totally out of her control. "
Oh I know! Was mostly just agreeing that she shouldn’t have to apologize and adding that I don’t think she really did.
Chorus Member Joined: 11/21/20
Heidi Blickenstaff will be the new MJ!
Source: I’m in Times Square for their GMA performance and she’s MJ haha
Featured Actor Joined: 4/13/11
Just saw the promo on GMA and I said to myself, “Is that Heidi?” Thanks for confirming!
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG
Maybe we'll get an official cast announcement today? So exciting!
I was going to see this again regardless, but Heidi as MJ!?!? Take my money!!
Chorus Member Joined: 11/21/20
steven22 said: "Maybe we'll get an official cast announcement today? So exciting! "
Already out!
https://jaggedlittlepill.com/cast-creative/
Woohoo!!! I'll be at the first performance back. I can't wait.
Jordan Catalano said: "OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG "
Same. I’ve never been more excited.
rpvee2 said: "steven22 said: "Maybe we'll get an official cast announcement today? So exciting! "
Already out!
https://jaggedlittlepill.com/cast-creative/"
Their website says Stanley returns "November 2021". I hope Heidi gets at least a full month run in. They reopen October 21, correct?
Featured Actor Joined: 4/13/11
The press release said when Stanley comes back she will alternate with Blickenstaff. So looks like she will be easing back into the role and have the balance with a new baby.
Markecib said: "The press release said when Stanley comes back she will alternate with Blickenstaff. So looks like she will be easing back into the role and have the balance with a new baby."
Awesome!
Interestingly, Laurel Harris was announced as returning with the rest of the cast, but recently she posted on Instagram about cleaning out her dressing room.
Call_me_jorge said: "Interestingly, Laurel Harris was announced as returning with the rest of the cast, but recently she posted on Instagram about cleaning out her dressing room."
Maybe she agreed to return after her pregnancy and now has taken it back. Doesn't seem like she feels safe returning and would rather remain home with her baby.
Noticed Ezra Menas isn't listed as returning, so I'm really curious who the Jo understudies are.
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