I saw yesterday's matinee and absolutely loved it. The audience was great, really responsive, laughing at anything and everything that had the least bit of humor. That help set the stage for a great show.
Marin was excellent. Like people have been saying, she plays a much more subdued Diana than Alice, but it definitely works. Someone said in another post that her choice to play a less manic/nuerotic Diana, put the emphasis more on the entire family rather than just her and I couldn't agree more. She brings a whole new magic to the show, she may not be Alice Ripley, but she is definitely doing Diana justice. From what people said initially, I think she is settling into the role vocally. She wasnt in head voice throughout the entire show as someone had mentioned. That being said, there are areas where she can work on, but nothing that made me wince. She shows a lot of emotion as she sings as well.
Meghann Fahy was absolutely brilliant. I was a little worried I wouldnt like her take on Natalie after people said she played the role more innocently, because I loved Jenn's more sardonic approach. But I loved Meghann just as much. She keeps the sassiness that makes me love Natalie so much, as well as showed a more gentle vulnerable side to her. I love her voice too, its so pure and strong.
Jason's voice was spectacular. Deep and Rich. His take on Dan was great too. He seemed to be very in love with Diana, but at the same time very fed up with their life. He showed Dan as being very conflicted between the two feelings, which I thought was very honest.
Kyle Dean Massey was just amazing, as usual. His Im Alive was absolutely electric.
Adam and Louis were great as well. In the beginning of the show Adam seemed a little subdued but he perked up just in time for Perfect for You.
Im glad the new cast turned out to be so wonderful. I hope they keep this show going strong.
Judy Garland & Gene Kelly <3