talking back at Drowsy

[Sleeper2]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 10:35am

I saw the Chaperone last night. Mike Nichols and Diane Sawyer were there, two rows in front of us, but that's not my story.

In the segment where Bob Martin is enjoying his little powerbar, someone in Mike Nichols' row, center orchestra, yelled out "Make sure you share!"

Martin took it in stride, remained in character and said "I never shout out at theaters." The audience applauded.

What the f is up with yelling at the cast during shows?! Is it because the fourth wall really does come down in Drowsy or are these people really such trash they don't understand that plays do not call for audience participation?

Aside from that famous note given at the end of the second act of Festen a few weeks ago, the last time I remember this happening was when someone yelled out to Mama Cosby at the end of Tree Grows in Brooklyn.

I really really hate it.
Updated On: 4/15/06 at 10:35 AM

[best12bars]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 10:48am

Bob Martin (as Man In Chair) DOES encourage the cast to come along with him for the ride...

That DOESN'T mean he encourages audiences to be a part of the cast... with an exchange of dialogue.

Must be the current age of "It's All About Me" that we live in.

Or maybe the guy was drunk.

Where's Ethel Merman (the bouncer) when you need her???

[boxers7]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 10:51am

I was there last night too and assumed it was part of the show. Bob's answer was so perfect for the moment, like it was scripted.

[Unknown User]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 10:55am

Well, in LA he does ask the audience how they are doing, and we responded with applause, so he does actually talk to us, so in this instance I dont think it was out of line to comment. As long as it doesn't get out of hand. Great comeback from Bob

[best12bars]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 10:56am

Bob is a "Second City" guy. He will have no problem with improvisational comments.

[Sleeper2]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 11:01am

I agree that it's part of the "all about me" attitude. I know Drowsy has that Bob-is-the-audience feel, but it takes a special kind of freakish egotist to think he should write new dialogue and be part of the show just because his ass is planted in F107.

[best12bars]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 11:02am

Sleeper2---LOL!

[Katurian2]

Posted: 4/15/06 at 11:11am

haha- When I saw Jersey Boys, someone in the back mez, a few rows behind me, shouted out, "It's a sign!" about 1 minute before Daniel made that remark. The cast didn't respond, but everyone in the rear heard it, and got even more of a laugh out of the line thatn usual.