Saw the matinee yesterday. I loved it (as usual). I wasn't going to see the show, but I decided to check out Steel!Berger. He was actually pretty good. He really held his own and was able to connect with the audience. He plays the role more mellow than Will, which isn't a bad thing. It is interesting to see a different take on the role. I guess I just prefer the wild quirkiness of Will Swenson.
I had aisle seats in the mezzanine for this performance. I never sat there before, so it was neat seeing the show from a different viewing perspective. (I definitely prefer the orchestra. I thought the leg room in the mezz sucked.) I was able to see everything just fine, except for the first row audience interaction. However, the cast is truly all over that theater. There were a couple times when Gavin Creel was right next to me and I had no idea where he came from. haha Anthony Hollock messed with my hair a bit during the show.
I absolutely love how the cast interacts with the audience (even from the stage). I've seen the show several times and each time it has been slightly different. For example, during Woof's introduction, an audience member shouted his name from the mezzanine. Woof started howling, the audience howled back, back and forth several times, etc. Then he howled, "I love youuuuuuuuuuu!" It was actually pretty funny. Then, when Berger asks for money, the audience member gave him a bottle of Purell!! Steel took the bottle and passed it around the tribe. It was hilarious. I think little unpredictable moments like that really make the show more special. You never know what might happen once the audience is involved.
For those wondering, I was able to make it from the mezz to the stage for the dance party in plenty of time. I got my things ready as soon as the curtain call started. After Gavin came out and the entire cast bowed, I made my way down the balcony steps. I climbed right up on stage and gave Paris Remillard a big hug. LOL I guess I was feeling the love. I'm sure I wasn't the only one. There was lots of hugging on that stage. The cast is so friendly.
Updated On: 7/19/09 at 06:31 PM