Threepenny Opera --performance selection for Tony's — Page 2

Tony numbers are all about selling tickets, and with that being the case, I think the number performed (while done very well) will not bring in an audience. "Mack the Knife" would have been more appropriate, since most people know that song (though perhaps not where it is from)... Songs out of context that are not well know generally don't come out well (I think "Lot's Wife," which was an amazing number in "Caroline or Change," didn't play well on the telecast out of context... I think the same could be said for this "Threepenny" moment.

Ok, how to address this carefully...

First of all, for those of you who say it shouldn't have been nominated at all, that is just silly - especially because some of those who have said that haven't even seen the show. So why be hurtful? Shameful... if you DID see it and didn't like it, fine - but being respectful is an obligation on here... this is art. It's the riskiest thing on Broadway now - and in a long time. At least the artists that shaped the show made strong choices. It isn't a musical REALLY... it's a play with songs...
A very politically charged and confrontational play... and timely, if you ask me.

The TANGO was chosen because it featured two of the big name stars and, in the show, is a beautiful number. The arrangement had to be changed though, as you could tell from abrupt key changes - which normally happen wonderfully, as they are separated by musical dance sections. The lighting was totally different. The context is also important. The songs in Threepenny aren't pop-songs, like in Pajama Game... Musicals used to sell records and before that, sheet music. Threepenny was not crafted for that.

I might be rather biased, but I think a medley would have been nice... and putting the boy who sings soprano on would have been shocking in a delightful way... I am referring to myself It would have also been a nice break out for me... but there are too many names in the show and the Roundabout chose not to utilize my character at all. I believe that Jim wanted to attend and enjoy the night. Performing at the awards is stressful - it's not a fun process, especially when you work so hard and the numbers come off half baked. I LOVED The Pajama Game when I saw it - and in context, both of the songs they used at the Tonys were jolts of energy - IN the show - not so much on the Tonys. So it's just strange... I agree about showing prerecorded clips.

Again, all this aside - I really don't understand why people on this board continue to put down actors, designers, directors, producers, writers, etc. - regardless of the case of THREEPENNY - when they should understand that their opinions are valid, if they have seen the work they are criticizing - but that opinions should be expressed with respect.

That's all I have to say about that.
;-p

-BCR

Updated On: 6/13/06 at 12:57 AM

Just to clarify. I think 3penny is fantastic, and that all of the performers do wonderful jobs. I started this thread because I just wanted to express my wish/desire to see either Jim or Brian perform live at the Tony's and not because I thought the song selection or the performers were lacking or that anyone would think "WTF" when it comes to a Broadway show.

I find the way in which this thread has developed mildly amusing, and very interesting.

I was surprised that Jim Dale didn't perform, as he was the only one nominated. But I guess having the two stars will pick up sales in the closing weeks.

---

What was the name of the song that they performed?

---

Where's the performance on YouTube? I want to see the Sweeney one too!

If you type in Alan Cumming, it should come up on that page. But Idk about the Sweeney video, sorry.

---

THREEPENNY @ TONYS on youtube!

To be honest, I kind of wanted to see Threepenny before the Tony's, in a nebulous sort of way. Their performance on the show made me really want to go see it now. Personally, I thought it came off the best (along with 'The Wedding Singer' - which I have already seen and enjoyed).

---