Thoughts on Xanadu with Whoopi

[Ed_Mottershead]

Posted: 8/10/08 at 7:12pm

I'm probably going to be shot at dawn for posting these opinions, but I saw Xanadu yesterday afternoon and must say up front that Whoopi, a performer whom I have admired for years, just didn't do it for me in this particular show. First of all, it struck me how much more of the weight of the show Mary must carry -- I guess because every word that Jackie says garners a laugh the role seems larger than it actually is. Whoopi is no longer using cue cards and seems to have the role down. But except for a few faces and a few bits that have been put in it for her, she wasn't what I'd call a laugh riot. For example, when Kira is talking about going into disguise at the beginning, when Jackie says "You've got 'em fooled now," the line gets a laugh. Not so with Whoopi. Her performance was thoroughly professional, but I just missed Jackie and came to realize whad a totally integrated show this really is -- everyone seems to jibe perfectly. Having said that at risk of my life ---

Whoopi was totally gracious at the stage door (and there was a mob there) -- she stopped for everyone, signed autographs, posed for pictures, etc., etc. Couldn't have been nicer. Don't get me wrong -- she has always been a phenomenal supporter of this show and for that alone I adore her.

The others were, as usual, great. Curtis was really camping up a storm -- he's a real riot and his tap got an ovation, as did his curtain call. There's no doubt in my mind that he merits a good show of his own now -- he's ready!!!!! A few bits have been modified -- for example, Cheyenne and Kerry crossing and uncrossing their legs when the arrow is shot has been changed to having Whoopi in Cheyenne's face and changing the line about Whoopi's character saying "I'm not wearing a bra."

BTW, the audience ate it up. And the overall experience still remains the most fun on Broadway.

[Testing1232]

Posted: 8/10/08 at 7:22pm

<< I'm probably going to be shot at dawn for posting these opinions, but I saw Xanadu yesterday afternoon and must say up front that Whoopi, a performer whom I have admired for years, just didn't do it for me in this particular show. >>

You share the same sentiment as many others, Ed, so I doubt anyone would get upset. Actually, the comments on BWW have been much kinder than the ones on the ATC boards (in regards to Whoopi)

I think many people (including myself) that love the show have chose to remain silent about Whoopi (let me add that I thought the idea of casting her in this role was a good idea).

(I really dont see the need for her name to be listed above Kerry and Cheyenne in the Playbill, but anyway......)

Oh, and not to threadjack, but did anyone else see Liz Smith's
"Xanadu" blurb in today's NY Post?

Um....... ::: bites tongue :::

[once a month]

Posted: 8/10/08 at 7:44pm

Thanks a lot Ed! To me, that opinion about Whoopi in Xanadu made my decision so easy! Love the show and all the fun it entails! Thanks for sharing...

[fanadu1996]

Posted: 8/10/08 at 8:08pm

its "you've thrown them off the track now"

[broadwayfan7]

Posted: 8/10/08 at 10:07pm

Thanks for your review. That's really great to hear that Whoopi was so nice at the stage door!

[dramamama611]

Posted: 8/11/08 at 12:23am

I saw Xanadu for the first time at the Wed matinee with Whoopi. And while I don't have anything to compare it to, my basic feeling was: Whoopi was "fine" but didn't seem to bring anything special to the show, nor did she detract from it. It was, indeed, a lot of fun.

And I just LOVED Curtis. He had me entranced every moment he was on stage. I'd go simply to see him again...in any role. I really like him in Saved and that was just re-inforced ten-fold with Xanadu. I'd go out of my way to see another show just because he is in it. Yum.