What about Erin Dilly? I dunno if you would consider her a "Broadway favorite" but I think she would be great for the role. She kind of reminds me of a young Julie Andrews.
"We like to snark around here. Sometimes we actually talk about theater...but we try not to let that get in our way." - dramamama611
Erin Dilly is very much like Julie. JHW debuts in Phantom on the 20th indeed.
"People have their opinions and that doesn't mean that their opinions are wrong or right. I just take it with a grain of salt because opinions are like as*holes, everyone has one".
-Felicia Finley-
Jennifer is indeed thrilled and committed to POTO right now. However, it would be wonderful to see her originate a role. Her talent is deserving of that honor.
Hate to break it to you, FOAnatic, but final callbacks are happening this week, I believe, and I've heard some names that aren't "broadway favorites"by your definition...they have been on broadway, but not with Tony noms or anything like that... I've heard about some names that are insanely talented and deserving, but not a "favorite", a la Benanti, Butler or whatever.
The dates conflict. She will still be in Phantom when it opens in NY.
"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view - until you climb into his skin and walk around in it."
To Kill A Mockingbird
I may be wrong but I thought I read somewhere that it was in Laura Michelle Kelly's contract that she would reprise her role if the show ever opened on Broadway.
Laura Michelle Kelly had an alleged fall out with Cameron. Thats the rumour mill. You can never be certain about these things as there are a lot of bitter and pissed off performers in London who dont rate her as highly as those in power. Her "star" was pushed from on high ever since she "won" the Voice of Musical Theatre in 2000.
I loved her performance in Mary Poppins and thought she made a charming Eliza Doolittle. All I am saying is that there is a lot of double talk and you cant really be sure about anything thats "heard" about her. Anyway her debute pop cd is about to be released.
As for Laura Benanti being occupied... if she won the part I am sure she could be bought out of Wedding Singer or would find a way.