Let me pose a question....

[dented146]

Posted: 6/12/07 at 4:53pm

Last weekend I had the opportunity to see a brand new musical, Carmen, at the La Jolla Playhouse.

I went into the theatre cold. I had no idea what I would be seeing and only a slight familiarity with the story. This type of thing is not an uncommon occurance at regional theatres.

My question is this: Do you think that you could see one of these productions, in previews, without a Broadway cast and often still in developement, and be able to tell if you're seeing a Piazza, Spring Awakening or other other Broadway hit?

[me2]

Posted: 6/12/07 at 9:39pm

I think yes . . . IF the direction is great and IF the cast is great. I saw a mediocre community theatre production of MUSIC MAN, and I was surprised by what a great show it was when I saw it on Broadway.

There have been great productions of many Broadway shows done regionally. But even a great show will crumble under the weight of bad anything else.

So, those are my thoughts.
Broadway Blog: Give Them What They Want / Za Ba Zoovee (Broadway vs. Pop)