This is a little late, but I happened to be in Lake Tahoe visiting family last week and realized the tour was a few hours away. Knowing it was my only chance to see it, I rented a car and went and saw the show. The theatre was kind of a let down space wise. It was dumpy and I was shocked to see a first national tour there. However, I was thrilled once the show started.
I have seen it bunch of times in NY because a friend is an intern at 321 and I have to say, having not seen the other two casts, everyone should see this group. It is very strong all around. Jennifer Simard is a hoot and brings a very sardonic take to the role. Lauren Worsham is a sweet Olive and has a really, really pretty voice, Eric Petersen is very different but hysterical and in general the whole show was funny, but also really real- a lot of the heavier moments landed for me that had not in NY. I also saw Chuck Rea go on as Panch and though he looks young, he did a really nice job.
Exciting for me was that Dana Steingold, who I have seen do some shows the past 4 years at NYU was on for Sarah Stiles as Logan. She was absolutely phenomenal. (I'm sure Sarah is great too!!) I may be bias because I love her from before and she is always fabulous and always so sweet when I meet her after a show, but I think Michael Zahler (Leaf) would be an excellent NY replacement and she should move up soon.
They were totally audience favorites. The audience fell in love with Michael right away and Dana was adorable and very funny but also really thoughtful in the role. Her version is a little sweeter than robotic but just as funny and when she got out, the audienced actually oohed and aawed which I have not seen happen in NY for that character. During the reprise she actually looked like she was fighting back tears. Michael also got the oohs and aaws and they made a great pair through the whole show as Dan Dad/Logan. He is absoutley fabulous too. I wanted to stay and see them after the show but I had to rush out because I had to drive back.
I am thrilled I got to catch this cast. Everyone should go and I hope someone else gets to see Dana go on. She is fantastic. As a side note to those who really know the shows/casts, I noticed she covers all four womes roles. Is that usually how it is done? I don't remember seeing that in NY. Has it happened before?
Updated On: 12/30/06 at 03:05 PM
