poisonivy2 said: "If you think one interpretation of a role as rich and complex as Eliza can be the only and final interpretation then you really aren't a fan of My Fair Lady."
Laura is of a different personality type than Julie, Audrey and Lauren. I might label those three as demure. Laura is not demure. I would love to see her put her own stamp on the role.
Really, at her age, in a very high profile production, this is her chance, and maybe her only chance, to raise herself up to the level of a Kelli O'Hara. She would have to make her Eliza someone about whom everyone was talking.
Good start at the box office. Saturday matinee a complete sell-out, even at StubHub. Sunday matinee likely to follow. I wonder if box office was a consideration when Sher picked Laura without considering anyone else.
The King and I, despite its good notices, was a box office disappointment compared to South Pacific. The latter ran for over 1000 performances, with the virtually unknown Laura Osnes playing Nellie for the last seven months. The King and I, despite the same glowing reviews, closed after 538. It was a very expensive show and at the first signs of running for a loss it was quickly shut down. The show may have been more appreciated in its touring and London companies.
My Fair Lady, despite all its acclaim, looks like it is heading more in the way of The King and I at the box office. Sher might have thought that Benanti could certainly handle the role and might boost the attendance with her national TV recognition.
