How you feel about a movie version of Cats is probably dependent on whether or not you enjoyed Cats on Broadway (or on any stage). I was indifferent; I wasn't completely immune to its certain charms (the otherworldly Betty Buckley’s incandescent performance, to be precise), despite the flimsiness of the score, sets and costumes. So, … Continue reading Reel Life: “Cats” Without Claws
Category: Broadway Baby
Broadway Baby: The 2013 Tony Awards Opening Number -“Bigger” is Best
If we're lucky homo sapiens, every few years a splendid anomaly occurs in the usually vapid space-time continuum of television awards shows that negates the basic dreary tropes and widens eyes with something that is, if you’ll excuse the cliché, purely magical. The last time we were borne witnesses to such a thrilling spectacle was … Continue reading Broadway Baby: The 2013 Tony Awards Opening Number -“Bigger” is Best
Music Box: Nobody Beats “The Wiz”
Too many changes pissed me off: Ne-Yo is curious enough, but Ne-Yo writing an original song FOR this? Ugh. Removing “I Was Born On The Day Before Yesterday” and replacing it with a song not even good enough to make the cut of the dreadful movie version, called “You Can’t Win”? Feh. (Though, I do … Continue reading Music Box: Nobody Beats “The Wiz”
Music Box: Hamilton the Musical – History Is Happening In Manhattan
I'm dazed. Literally. I first saw the off-Broadway production back in February, at the Public, as a birthday present to myself. It was a staggering achievement then, but even more so now. Every so often a work of art descends upon us from the heavens, via the musical theater gods - so breathtaking, towering in … Continue reading Music Box: Hamilton the Musical – History Is Happening In Manhattan
Music Box: Ramin Karimloo, Bring It Home!
I've seen "Les Miserables" countless times on Broadway since its opening back in 1987, with various actors playing Jean Valjean. I saw the brilliant Colm Wilkison twice during his original run, and his replacement, the great Gary Morris - yes the Country singer - who was outstanding in a complete 180 of his usual metier. … Continue reading Music Box: Ramin Karimloo, Bring It Home!
Legacy: Elaine Stritch Everybody Rise!
How do you mourn a legend who’s lived more than you and me combined? At the ripe old age of 89, the great Elaine Stritch has taken her final bows. To see her in a show was to expect the expected AND unexpected, and to bear witness Broadway royalty non pareil. I'm thrilled, delighted, and … Continue reading Legacy: Elaine Stritch Everybody Rise!
Music Box: Idina Menzel Live At Radio City Music Hall
Idina Menzel lives in a musical kingdom where she rules as the Queen and her uber-fans are of many facets – her disciples, her defenders, her watchdogs, her court jesters, and her steadfastly dedicated army. Dare, if you will, to publicly state that the Emperor has no clothes, and you will be harangued, and scolded, … Continue reading Music Box: Idina Menzel Live At Radio City Music Hall
