Broadway Legend Joined: 8/26/19
macbeth said: "I hate to suggest it, but Ben Platt?"
No. Charisma is a requirement.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/23/17
inception said: "I hope this is the main thread for this show. Saw thislast night.
Today wrapping up my 2025 visit with Chess and later Seat of Our Pants. Mid-week when I was packing to leave DC I felt like the 5 days I spent there was enough & I was actually ready to go home. But that half of the trip was a lot more walking through museums; and especially the African American History Museum was very difficult. I didn't even read everything just to protect myself emotionally.
But I had tickets to 10 shows in NY, so there was no turning back.
Of what I've seen on Broadway this week, this show feels most like what I would expect from a Broadway show - glitz & glamour. Did we learn anything?Were we emotionally moved? No this show is all about moving something else.
All anyone cansay when they walk into that theatre, is this is gorgeous.
In comparison Ragtime being so bare was pretty disappointing. The huge bunting thatunfurled and changed colour with the lighting during Back to Before was lovely. But it would have been nicer to have an actual set so it didn't just feel like a concert production. Baker's Wife offBroadway was still simple, yet felt more thoroughly realized. But I don't see that show making economical sense on Broadway.
I did get my fill of big sumptuous sets & costumes yesterday afternoon with Arabella at the Met - all 4 hours of it. It really flew by, I think because I slept through about 1 of those hours. I love Strauss, but this work is not his best. I am grateful to have been able to see this production. I doubt they'll ever do it again for a long time. The Saturday matinee looked poorly sold from the orchestra. I dozed off at times because Friday night I was up too late seeinga late show at the Comedy Cellar. This was the second time I've seen comic Dave Attell. I don't know why they make him out to be a NYC comedy star? Is he? He's just so gross.
But Iguess New Yorkers love their gross stars. That's how we get Groff spitooning over people who have spent $500 for the privilege. For the red bucket auction last night he had two people who really wanted his bow tie and got the priceup to $3600. Then one of the ladies said, "can't you you sign a second tie?" And sure enough he had a second tie so sold them each one for $3600. Actually, first she said when it had reached $3600 & he wondered if she'd go higher, " How about you sell me your underwear instead." He was startledat first, but then came back with "My underwear is worth much more." That's when she said well can't you just signa second tie?
To be perfectly honest, for myself I couldn't keep my eyes off his fat ass for most of the first act. He's in those shark skin pants with the Speedos underneath ready forthe quick change quite a ways in later during Splish Splash, so most of the first act they outline his globes perfectly under his trousers. It's sodistracting, and I'm like 80% bottom. So yeah even from the cheap seats I got my money's worth.
If you read thisfar & you're pissed off by my comments, well what were you expecting? You saw it was me. You could have chosen not to read this.
Sorry, but you're a pig.
macbeth said: "I hate to suggest it, but Ben Platt?"
No.
Stand-by Joined: 11/15/22
Message deleted.
Updated On: 11/25/25 at 05:58 PMUnderstudy Joined: 10/21/05
So this will never happen because he and his wife are having a baby, and he’s preparing for an upcoming tour, but personally think Derek Hough would be an A++++ replacement, even better then Jonathan Bailey and Darren Criss. Charisma that matches or even “levels up” the charisma that Groff has the ability to bring to the table, and his dancing is unparalleled. And apparently he can sing. It won’t happen but that would be my choice. I would argue he’d sell more tix than anyone else mentioned, save for Bailey.
Ben Platt is a total no. No charisma, can’t dance, and I do think he sings well, but the insanely fast vibrato would not lend itself to Darin’s music.
Understudy Joined: 4/22/23
Jeremy Jordan?
Leading Actor Joined: 4/14/12
Is Joseph Gordon-Levitt a big enough name?
Broadway Star Joined: 12/9/23
Santino Fontana.
Understudy Joined: 4/22/23
Back Row said: "Is Joseph Gordon-Levitt a big enough name?"
A big enough name, yes, but I think he'd be out of his element. It would be a great surprise if he had this in him, however.
Lisalemann said: "I maintain that they should go outside the box and convince someone like Seth McFarlane or Matt Bomer to do it as a limited extension. They definitely need someone who will sell tickets - and someone with a fanbase besides just Broadway would do that. But it's a really demanding role - and I struggle to think of many "name" actors who could convincingly pull it off."
Those aren't "outside the box" suggestions, they are usual suspects amongst casting and producing offices. Macfarlane has been offered numerous shows as an originator and replacement (including "pick your own show"). I have to think at this point he is content being busy with TV and albums and has no interest in doing a book musical.
I don't really see anyone of actual fame being interested in replacing Groff. We see this all the time with acclaimed performances, real ticket-selling stars do not want to be compared to who came before them. "Broadway names" are something of a myth...they'd need someone bigger than Groff to sell the extension.
Kirdahy is doing his due diligence trying to find a replacement, but I assume they will eventually reverse course and close at the end of JG's contract (maybe even milk 2-6 more weeks out of him). Then they can tour it with a relative nobody like Dez Duron or Matt Doyle, which will be fine for subscription markets.
Understudy Joined: 4/22/23
He's probably about ten years too old, but if he still has his youthful energy Matthew Morrison would be a good choice. Darin's music would fit him well and he is a terrific dancer. He's also been away from Broadway for a long time so a high-profile replacement gig could pay off for him in the long run.
Leading Actor Joined: 4/14/12
TheOtherOne2 said: "Back Row said: "Is Joseph Gordon-Levitt a big enough name?"
A big enough name, yes, but I think he'd be out of his element. It would be a great surprise if had this in him, however.
"
Over the years, he has demonstrated in various appearances that he can sing and dance. Whether he can meet the standard of carrying a Broadway show remains to be seen. He is oozing with charisma, though, and that could go a long way in making up for any song and dance shortcomings.
His name came to mind because I remembered seeing a video of him singing “Baby It’s Cold Outside” with Lady GaGa.
inception said: "I hope this is the main thread for this show. Saw thislast night.
Today wrapping up my 2025 visit with Chess and later Seat of Our Pants. Mid-week when I was packing to leave DC I felt like the 5 days I spent there was enough & I was actually ready to go home. But that half of the trip was a lot more walking through museums; and especially the African American History Museum was very difficult. I didn't even read everything just to protect myself emotionally.
But I had tickets to 10 shows in NY, so there was no turning back.
Of what I've seen on Broadway this week, this show feels most like what I would expect from a Broadway show - glitz & glamour. Did we learn anything?Were we emotionally moved? No this show is all about moving something else.
All anyone cansay when they walk into that theatre, is this is gorgeous.
In comparison Ragtime being so bare was pretty disappointing. The huge bunting thatunfurled and changed colour with the lighting during Back to Before was lovely. But it would have been nicer to have an actual set so it didn't just feel like a concert production. Baker's Wife offBroadway was still simple, yet felt more thoroughly realized. But I don't see that show making economical sense on Broadway.
I did get my fill of big sumptuous sets & costumes yesterday afternoon with Arabella at the Met - all 4 hours of it. It really flew by, I think because I slept through about 1 of those hours. I love Strauss, but this work is not his best. I am grateful to have been able to see this production. I doubt they'll ever do it again for a long time. The Saturday matinee looked poorly sold from the orchestra. I dozed off at times because Friday night I was up too late seeinga late show at the Comedy Cellar. This was the second time I've seen comic Dave Attell. I don't know why they make him out to be a NYC comedy star? Is he? He's just so gross.
But Iguess New Yorkers love their gross stars. That's how we get Groff spitooning over people who have spent $500 for the privilege. For the red bucket auction last night he had two people who really wanted his bow tie and got the priceup to $3600. Then one of the ladies said, "can't you you sign a second tie?" And sure enough he had a second tie so sold them each one for $3600. Actually, first she said when it had reached $3600 & he wondered if she'd go higher, " How about you sell me your underwear instead." He was startledat first, but then came back with "My underwear is worth much more." That's when she said well can't you just signa second tie?
To be perfectly honest, for myself I couldn't keep my eyes off his fat ass for most of the first act. He's in those shark skin pants with the Speedos underneath ready forthe quick change quite a ways in later during Splish Splash, so most of the first act they outline his globes perfectly under his trousers. It's sodistracting, and I'm like 80% bottom. So yeah even from the cheap seats I got my money's worth.
If you read thisfar & you're pissed off by my comments, well what were you expecting? You saw it was me. You could have chosen not to read this.
"
🤮
Seems like he’s actually out sick today. Lost his voice which explains the parade performance. Hope he’s feeling better soon and wishing the understudy luck!
Understudy Joined: 4/22/23
Sorry to hear this. He was sensational on Wednesday afternoon but he did sound flat at the Parade. I hope he's better soon and I wish his understudy a great performance. This might be his debut, I don't think Jonathan has missed a show yet.
Updated On: 11/28/25 at 03:02 PMStand-by Joined: 11/15/22
Matt Magnusson’s first show in the role and started mid-show as Groff couldn’t continue. Groff also out of the evening show.
Updated On: 11/28/25 at 04:40 PM
Springtime said: "Matt Magnusson’s first show in the role and started mid-show as Groff couldn’t continue. Groff also out of the evening show."
$99 tickets are being offered tonight.
Broadway Legend Joined: 4/22/04
Jonathan is such a trouper, and what a busy week he's had. On Monday, his regular day-off, he joined Daniel Radcliffe and Lindsay Mendez to plug their ''Merrily We Roll Along'' movie on ''Today'' and ''Late Night With Seth Meyers.'' He was back at ''Just in Time'' on Tuesday and Wednesday (2 shows). He also rehearsed at night for the Macy's Parade and performed outside Thursday morning. Friday (with 2 shows) would've kicked off a 5-show weekend. Whew! Will he be back tomorrow? Here's hoping he gets lotsa rest!
Updated On: 11/29/25 at 08:53 PMBroadway Star Joined: 4/3/17
Clip of Matt Magnusson's matinee curtain call
https://www.instagram.com/p/DRnjB0mjuvB/
Springtime said: "Matt Magnusson’s first show in the role and started mid-show as Groff couldn’t continue. Groff also out of the evening show."
Early reports on him are pretty positive, especially considering the circumstances.
First thing I did was head over to Alison Luff’s Instagram story. She must feel very proud of her husband. :)
Heal up, Jonathan.
there was a second mid-show swing on during the matinee yesterday as Claire Camp injured her foot and Khori Michelle Petinaud stepped in and also performed during the evening show.
per the box office this morning, Groff is out of the matinee. TBD for tonight's performance.
All three leads are out today.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DRpieIAjp9r/?igsh=YWJtOHh4dmpseGE1
Broadway Legend Joined: 4/22/04
A Redditor rave for Matt Magnusson
https://www.reddit.com/r/Broadway/comments/1p9g7y6/i_saw_matthew_magnusson_in_just_in_time_tonight/
Groff is set to return Tuesday. Happy Matt is having his moment! It is insane Groff has gone this long without missing a performance. What a trooper.
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