You’re all making Idina sound like Britney Spears circa…1999. Her fan base when compared to the likes of tween icons during the 90s and of today—I imagine, is really negligible. (Maybe I’m just not really giving her the credit she deserves, but when Idina is mentioned, for longest time [prior to RENT becoming a movie] most people who actually have heard her name before knew who she was due to the death threats she received while performing at Gershwin.)
To be honest I can’t think of at least some minute way in which one cannot identify with the characters Ms. Menzel has played, especially Elphaba, which adds in the whole “Wicked factor.” (That this board loves scorn.) Moreover, her vulnerability and honesty in character and from what I garner from her off stage and off screen appearances adds to her appeal. She just has this sense of reality that one may not find from other larger than life icons.
I for one was not acquainted with her work prior to Wicked, and I guess it didn’t help that having no context of RENT, around 4 of 5 years ago, someone just decided to play Over the Moon to me. Regardless, I just didn’t think very much of Ms. Menzel at the time, just as some eyebrow raising, Broadway type that had nothing on Britney Spears. (Okay, I think I was over Britney by the 4th grade, but you get the idea.)
Personally, even though it might be at Idina’s expense, I much rather see these young individuals be interested in someone like Idina and her work, over what I was interested in when I was 13 (which honestly I’m just a several years shy of).
I see Idina as a talented individual that just has this presence that I can’t really explain. Plus points for her since she is attractive and she can sing. I have the utmost respect for her, considering all the situations she has been through, that I’m privy to knowing. I definately like the fact that Idina doesn't scream perfect, in her roles and in life. And I guess I can partially thank Idina for expanding my knowledge of theater. For I’m willing to admit, I was exposed to the works of composers like Michael John LaChiusa before for interest in Ms. Menzel’s work.
Though negligible, I guess you can consider that as compared to other celebrities Idina is more assessable than others. Which is true for anyone on Broadway—the stage door, which will excite some fans to bring large bulky posters, and wardrobe choices that attest their errrrm, fascination with her. (*reminisces over those boyband, spice girls, and britney t’s*)
I really don’t think I should speak of this topic anymore, and just live a closeted Idina Menzel love, so I’m not attacked by flagrant remarks. Psssyche. I have to have my occasional moments of *SQUEEEE OMFG, it’s EYE-dina MEN-ZEEEEEEL!!!* It’s “healthy.”
This whole blurb I wrote still doesn’t really explain “WHY IDINA?” But honestly, can explain anything that goes through the head of a pre-teen? Good luck if you think you can.
Updated On: 6/8/06 at 11:32 AM
Thank you and I totally agree.
