I also saw the matinee today.
I found a lot to love about Jayne Paterson's Desiree. There were moments I really loved about her performance. She's not quite as glamorous as Zeta-Jones is, and you don't ever feel like this character is a star of the stage, but her earthy interpretation has its moments. She is most effective in her scenes with Frederika and Madame Armfeldt. Her Clowns is less restrained than Jones', and she visibly breaks down the during the number, whereas Jones sings it more detached, with much more irony. The problem I have with it is that she way over-sings it, almost to the point where it's as if she's trying to say, "I am a Broadway actress and I can belt!" I would definitely see her again, but overall, I still prefer Catherine's portrayal.
The rest of the show is in absolutely fantastic shape and I would encourage all of those who saw an early preview to think about a return visit. This is my third visit to the show, and the performance was VERY strong today. All of the qualms I had about it after the first preview have been addressed. The pacing is much zippier, and the show has never been funnier. Lansbury is absolutely brilliant. Her Liaisons today was fabulous and the wooden ring scene is sheer perfection. Lazar is hilarious. Hanson remains a delight. Leigh Ann Larkin and Hunter Ryan Herdlicka, both a bit too over the top early on, have toned it down and are quite good now. I still go back and forth on Ramona Mallory- sometimes she overdoes it, other times I find myself enjoying her. And I'm
slowly warming up to Erin Davie, though I still wish she was more sarcastic.
Overall though, excellent performance today!
Updated On: 2/21/10 at 11:47 PM