Posted this on the other thread, but figured I'd throw it in here as well...
My review of the 8/21 performance:
Not much to say that hasn't already been said, but for what it's worth, I loved it. It was the perfect combination of funny/enjoyable material and AMAZING singing voices. Usually it's one or the other, but this show really gives every cast member (well, at least every female cast member) a chance to show their stuff, and boy do they ever.
Some stuff I agree with - too many songs for Kaitlin Hopkins (though she sings them all beautifully - of course all I could think of was Peter's mom with a southern accent, but that's just me) and not enough for Orfeh (does she remind anyone else of Topanga? Just a thought...) Also, I agree that the male characters were a little underdeveloped, or at least with respect to their ties to the other characters (Norbert & Pippi, etc). Love Shuler Hensley, I wish this show gave him more of an oppportunity to show off his amazing voice. The "girls" were absolutely hilarious and I couldn't get enough of them. I'd seriously go see a whole show consisting of just the three of them. And amazing voices on all of them.
As for the marker sniffing etc, not all jokes are gonna hit the mark - it didn't bother me that much but I wouldn't be surprised if they didnt downplay it (or even take it out) when it opens officially. I also noticed the song in the Playbill that wasn't in the show. I spoke to the director for a bit afterwards and she said there were quite a few big changes already from the first performance.
Everyone was very friendly and grateful at the stage door - chatted it up with Andy Karl and Kevin Kern who were waiting for Orfeh to come out (side note: Andy and Joberg leave this week, I highly recommend people check out ABz while they're still in it, they were my two favorites).
All in all, a great show. I really think it'll do well and personally believe it could translate to Broadway, but what do I know.
Highly recommended! Tickets are only $39 with the PBOL discount, which the box office will honor even if you forget to bring the printout...
If I lay here
If I just lay here
Would you lie with me and just forget the world?