i second that jeremy..if its even true...if thats how it happened, thats just dumb.
laurie wells is actually someone who had to take a long leave from mama mia BEFORE she even took on donna full time. i hear she is doing GREAT now..but thats just not an easy show for anyone.
and grizabella...its not always in a performers best interest to replace someone because you miss out on the perks of originating a role. a lot of attention and career boosting events take place when you originate a role rather than replace. so depending on where an actor wants their career to go. they usually decide with their agents and managers whether or not replacing in a particular show is really a good move, regardless of what bills need to be paid. its all about patience and willingness to start projects that may never go anywhere, etc...some people just want to work and will replace without a second thought. its usually much more prestigious and attention grabbing to be the FIRST replacement rather than the 3rd, 4th or 5th in a long running show. when you go into the show too far into the run, all of the industry people have seen it and USUALLY don't want to go back and see it again, no matter who you are! i WILL say, that the situation with replacements is getting better now though..as far as tony for best replacement..that is a draw to replace..and a lot of replacements are getting reviewed now too..although thats not always the case....
phew..long answer..sorry..but there it is.
Updated On: 2/22/06 at 07:52 PM