I saw the show on Sunday for the first time since I had seen two early previews eight days apart. I had enjoyed the previews, but was impressed on how much improved it was now. I guess that's why they have previews.
The biggest improvement to me was Oscar. At the first preview I had seen James Moye in the role, and in the second Peter Gallagher just back from his illness. Today Gallagher seemed much more confident and comfortable to the point where I might begin to compare him to John Cullum, whom I only know from the OBC album. He has the bravado now and was contributing instead of detracting from OTTC.
Some of the dialog was changed in content and delivery as the cast tuned the show to what worked best with the audience. Lily in "Never" as she collapses as she utters all the torment she will inflict on Oscar says lastly that she will stab him in the eyeballs. A little different from the recording, I think, and it got a fresh laugh.
Even the "I have written a play" sequence worked as the audience anticipated, along with Oscar, the "I call it Life on the hog market committee" announcement.
After seeing the second preview I had felt a little let down, so I was happy to find that I just found it a joy today. I heard a couple after the show who liked it very much but admitted to being a little confused at the beginning by the "Veronique" flashback, which I can understand.
The audience response at curtain call was also different from the early previews I saw. At those only about half of the audience rose during the curtain call until Kristin took her bow and then most of the rest of the audience joined them.
This time 95 percent was on its feet for the porters and there was cheering as well as applause. Along with the audience approval, the cast seemed to be having such a good time that an extension seems feasible, but I guess that is up to KC.