Why Headliners Don't Perform

[Myron]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 12:20pm

Please fill me in as I'm new to this board about why headliners never perform for free concerts. Are they forbidden to perform by their contracts? For example, Christina Applegate was absent from the "Sweet Charity" cast at last week's Bryant Park concert and last year Shirly Jones was absent from the "42nd St." performance.However, Frenchie Davis did perform songs from "Rent" at the free concert. I am confused!

[luvtheEmcee]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 12:23pm

It seems sort of like it's case-by-case. I don't know specifics on why, though. *shrug*

[TheatreDiva90016]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 12:26pm

I'm sure there is nothing in their contracts forbidding them to perform at free concerts. It's most likely the fact that they are doing 8 shows a week and are so gosh darn tired that they want to rest on thier day off.

And welcome!

[lildogs]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 12:44pm

I would imagine it's up to the individual star. However, if Christina (in this case) was willing to help raise money, you'd think she'd be there to help promote her show. TheatreDiva is probably right: she's just too tired. I think (though I'm sure there are exceptions) that an unspoken understanding exists between actors and producers: they hire the actor, the actor plugs the show--it is mutually beneficial.

[Aigoo]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 12:58pm

Well, both Jennifer Laura Thompson and Idina Menzel performed...For Good..or whatever. There's nothing that restricts performers, I think...just something of their own personal decision.

[broadwaystar2b]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 1:02pm

For some people it could be security precautions too

[musicalsFan]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 1:58pm

It really varies.

Last year all three principals of Phantom of the Opera performed. This year the principal Raoul, alternate Christine, and standby Phantom performed.

Frenchie Davis has been there all three years with Rent which I think is terrific!

Sometimes seeing the understudies is a GOOD thing eg Linda Mugleston as Ruth Sherwood and Susan Derry as Eileen from Wonderful Town last year.

I'm looking forward to seeing the Wicked understudies this year.

[MissNY]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 2:59pm

I agree with musicalsfan, I would actually prefer to see the understudies

[QueenS]

Posted: 7/26/05 at 3:53pm

Hairspray's first year, Harvey and Marissa were both at the Bryant Park afternoon series...