I don't think the host necessarily needs to be a comedian or a funny person, per se. The best host I can remember was Angela Landsbury. She had a genuine quality about her. When she introduced performances it didn't sound like she was reading a script--it sounded like she was proud to introduce you to performance of a show she loved a by performers she respected. Her monologues talked about her love of theatre and her history as a performer. I remember one year where she wore the Mama Rose red dress and sang Everything's Coming Up Roses. She such a delightful woman.
Rather than making NPH sound funny, they should have him talk about how he got turned on to theatre (he was initially known as a TV actor), his experiences and his respect for the people he works with.
An awards show is not a comedy show. You don't have to make me laugh. But please, entertain me. Make me smile.
Coach Bob knew it all along: you've got to get obsessed and stay obsessed. You have to keep passing the open windows. (John Irving, The Hotel New Hampshire)
Updated On: 5/5/11 at 07:05 AM