Don’t Just Sing, Say Something!
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under The Actor's Corner
The month of July has definitely been a complete whirlwind for me, and as I begin typing this blog, I am finding it difficult to process all of the artistic breakthroughs it has yielded. The month started with a wonderful vocal convention in Utah, and continued on with the once in a lifetime “Making It On Broadway Intensive” in LA. Needless to say, both of these events managed to leave major imprints on me, and my artistic perspective.
First off, the NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) convention in Salt Lake City, was truly remarkable. It featured countless workshops and lectures, all of which were fascinating, but the highlights for me were the ones led by Florence Birdwell, a master teacher from Oklahoma City University, (who’s students include Kristin Chenoweth and Kelli O’Hara). She spoke mainly on the power of words, and stressed the crucial importance of interpretation of song. She recited poetry, told stories, and shared funny anecdotes. Long story short, it moved, and inspired us in equal measure. Seeing a true master of teaching speak from a place of emotion and not technique was refreshing, and personally satisfying to someone like me who values what comes from the heart over technical perfection.
Aside from the many highlights of the conference, including a wonderful recital by Ms. O’Hara herself, and a searing speech by Simon Estes to close the conference, the trip also provided me with my finest theatrical memory as of yet- witnessing Audra McDonald reprise her Tony nominated role in “110 in The Shade”, in a tiny theater in Orem, Utah. Literally less than a foot away from her, I can safely say that I was changed forever by what I experienced that night. Of course, as we all know, Audra has a voice from heaven- but it was her emotion, her connection, and interpretation that is what stayed with me, and completely transcended that tiny circular stage. For those two hours, I had a direct gateway into a human soul. I saw a woman’s joys, and pains, her successes and failures, her love, and heartbreak, right there, all a foot in front of me. I saw her sing through tears streaming down her face, but also through smiles big enough to fill the Met. And as the heavenly rain poured down on the stage, I realized that what I was seeing was beyond description, and frankly, just a moment to cherish. I sat there with tears streaming down my face, just trying to soak in the beauty of what was happening before me.
With this amazing performance fresh in my mind, I headed back home, and ventured, with my girlfriend to the “Making It On Broadway” intensive. Together, we had one of the finest weeks that we can remember. Led by Jodie Langel, a broadway vet, we worked with some of the finest people in the theater industry. From renowned music director Todd Schroeder to “Glee’”s pianist Brad Ellis, the one of a kind Sam Harris, to Susan Egan, and wonderful scene work with Joel Bishoff ( original director of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change) among many others, we emerged from the week with many new songs, insights, and wonderful connections to some of the most talented and successful folks in the business.
I would recommend this program to any performer, because the information, and personal attention you receive is truly one of a kind. You receive tons of workshop time, not to mention hours dedicated to building a complete audition book that will go a long way to ensuring that you book the job. Going from 10-6 every day, we worked our asses off, but it paid off in a myriad of ways. By the end of the program, we had final auditions in front of a complete industry panel, with directors and actors and agents, and lets just say all that work, effort and time put in proved to be well worth it. I won’t say more than that, but I can definitely say I am very excited about some new opportunities in the near future.
So, after all these crazy weeks, I’m finally able to relax and reflect for a bit. And, looking back on this amazing time, I realized that there was a common thread amongst every bit of it. When I analyze all of the performances, classes, and workshops of the past month, the phrase that sticks out to me would be Ms. Birdwell’s refrain- “Don’t Just Sing, Say Something”. If I took anything from all of these teachers and students, it would be that the best performances, and the ones worth remembering are the most truthful. The best performers are the ones that truly communicate, and open the channel directly from their hearts to the world. The greatest performers are able to access every emotion, and allow you to feel it with them, even if that is pain. This goes hand in hand with honesty, and frankly, if you aren’t real, or believable, why should anyone watch you? You can only really say something, as Ms. Birdwell says, if you are being TRUTHFUL. And I have noticed, that there is, (especially locally) a complete LACK of substance, honesty, and emotion in the musical theater.
There is a truly unfortunate amount of bad theater, (and even worse teaching) spreading throughout Southern California. I see so many bad habits, and worse, constant self congratulation amongst actors, directors and casts, who seem to think that their work is Broadway quality. Many of these actors in particular, are talented, but have very far to go, and it is disturbing to me seeing people in the local theatre community pass themselves off as arrogant done deals, when even the best performers consider themselves works in progress. Learning is a lifelong process, and to think otherwise is plain ignorance. Watching Ms. Birdwell work with some singers really made me wish I could send some people I know to her boot camp.
Somewhere along the line, many teachers and performers decided that musical theatre should be about fun, fluffy frills and Jerry Herman-esque dance numbers. This leads not only to lackluster, soulless productions, but also to the creation, and training of performers who lack emotion, and intelligence, and knowledge of their art form. Dance numbers and lavish sets have replaced authentic emotion, and when that occurs, you are essentially murdering this great art form. Its not to say that musicals can’t be silly and fun, but if there isn’t an ounce of truth or craft under them, they just become theme park attractions, or a place to bus nursing homes out to see on the weekends.
But maybe thats just where the theater is heading, unfortunately.
But not if we young people let it.
I will hold out hope for the true artists, and the people who care about doing art that MATTERS.
So next time you open up a music book, Don’t just sing, say something!
Ms. Birdwell, and Ms. McDonald will thank you.
And so will I.
Really?
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under The Actor's Corner
With this week’s Tony awards now past us, my anger toward many people in the theater community has grown to a palpable furor. There were many problems with the Tony telecast, which I will get to shortly, but what has irritated me more than anything about the show, is the incessant idiocy and snobby attitudes of theater people in general.
This week, following the Tony Awards, Broadway Star Hunter Foster started a facebook campaign entitled “Give The Tony’s Back To Broadway”. In the description of the group, it is stated : “A group for all actors, directors, writers and fans who want to see the Tony awards given back to who it belongs to: US!! No more movie stars invading Radio City, no more rock bands playing more than one song; we want Broadway stars as presenters and Broadway people performing. And if that means leaving CBS for Bravo or Lifetime or TNT, then so be it! We’ve had enough! (This is) A group for all actors, directors, writers and fans who want to see the Tony awards celebrate the excellence of Broadway by allowing those artists who have made theatre their livelihood to take a more active part in its yearly presentation. We want the evening to be about Broadway and for the fans of Broadway. This group is about including more of those artists that we admire and look up to, so that it truly becomes an evening to celebrate.”
This angered me in a major way. Especially seeing people I know joining and supporting this pretentiousness. Theater is really struggling right now, and the last thing we can afford to do as theater people is be more exclusive. I too wish there was more time reserved on the telecast for people of the theater, but frankly, now more than ever, we need to reach out, and expand the community. If having Jay-Z and Beyonce on the Tony’s mean that more people will watch the show, and potentially become interested in the theater community, I’m all for it.
Second of all, this whole rant seemed to be a major shot at “American Idiot”. Yes, Green Day performed a few songs, but whether the theater community wants to admit it or not, they were behind the most original and creative show of the season. Having them perform seemed to make perfect sense to me. Their rock opera was by far the most creative (musically and theatrically) show of the season, and whether the snobs will admit it or not, it should have walked home with most of the trophies.
If Broadway people continue to have attitudes like this, we will surely be seeing the end of the theater sooner than later. We must understand that theater should be seen and enjoyed by everyone, and the Tony’s should be a celebration involving many people, and an opportunity to reach out, not a private celebration for the 100 most insular theater people in New York.
What is most ironic is the author of this group is currently starring in a show that represents everything wrong with Broadway right now. Hunter Foster stars in a crappy pre-packaged jukebox musical called “Million Dollar Quartet” that cashes in on the familiar music of Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. In no way does this “show” advance the form of musical theater. Frankly, its just another option for when Grandma and Grandpa want to see a show and Jersey Boys is sold out.
Dear Hunter: Whether you like them or not, Green Day created and crafted a highly theatrical experience, and brought something to the Great White Way that I, and many others, have never seen before. In 20 years, their show will be the only one worth talking about from this otherwise dismal season for new musicals.
And speaking of the celebrities invading Radio City, they pretty much all deserved to be there. Jay-Z, and Will Smith produced the hit “Fela”. Denzel Washington’s performance in “Fences” was perfection, along with Viola Davis’ incredible turn as his wife. Catherine Zeta-Jones was weak on the Tony’s, but in person I thought she was terrific, heartfelt and very real.. And by all accounts, Scarlett Johannson was wonderful in “A View From The Bridge”. So which Hollywood celebrity, Hunter, doesn’t belong there? Sounds like your just bitter.
Speaking of bitterness, now I can’t let some of mine out. “La Cage Aux Folles”, which proved very popular with the Tony voters, was a highly mediocre revival, and paled in comparison to “Promises, Promises”, whether the critics will admit it or not. Douglas Hodge was occasionally very funny, but am I the only one who had an issue with the extent of his hamminess? Or his weak, wispy tenor?
And, Lea Michelle. You are potentially the most overrated performer in the history of theater. If this was your audition for the upcoming revival of “Funny Girl”, I hate to tell you, but you didn’t get the part. And by ripping off (note by note) Barbara’s musical choices, you don’t do yourself any favors. Your voice isn’t that great, you can’t act, and just so you know, Fanny Brice was a comedian. And you aren’t funny.
And finally, “Glee”. You are everything wrong with theater. Processed, stereotypical crap. This is the kind of thing that gives people the wrong ideas about theater. And not one cast member on the show is any sort of major talent. I don’t get it. Please go away. Thanks.
So in the end, the Tony’s were kind of lame. But there’s always next year.
However, if it goes Hunter’s way, the show will be hosted in Sardi’s by Seth Rudestky, and will only be available to people who own at least 30 original cast albums.
Sounds like a snobby, and miserable future to me.
Day 10. “Everyday Rapture”
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under The Actor's Corner
Day 10 began with a lovely walk through Central Park, and a delicious lunch at the Loeb Boathouse on the lake. The food was lovely, and so was the view. After lunch, we got some delicious frozen custard, and continued to stroll through the park, and enjoy ourselves.
After our time in the park, we took the subway back to 42nd street to finish up some last minute shopping, and such. We then headed back to the hotel to get ready for our final show, Sherie Rene Scott’s “Everyday Rapture”. The show is a loose autobiography of her life, told in a series of songs and vignettes.
The show, was pitch-perfect. Sherie was brilliant- her voice impeccable, and her comedic timing spot on. She has a voice like honey- and a marvelous sense of hilarious deadpan. The show, as written and created by her and Dick Scanlan, is simple, funny, and surprisingly touching. Its a little jewel of a show, and Sherie, and the 3 other cast members were just wondrous. And the music selection- from U2 to Mister Rogers, was smart and terrific. Also another shout out to Tom Kitt ( Next To Normal) for his orchestrations.
After the wonderful final show of our trip, we picked up some snacks from Chipotle and the Food Emporium, and headed back to the room to watch the Laker game and organize our bags for tomorrow. It was a simple way to end this wild trip, but pretty perfect. This has been an incredible trip, and I can’t wait for the next one.
Until then-Goodnight.
Day 9. “Avenue Q”
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under The Actor's Corner
Day 9 began with a late wake up, and a taxi cab over to Greenwich Village, to the world famous Katz’ Delicatessen. This is the deli seen in many films and tv shows, including most memorably, the famous “fake orgasm” scene in When Harry Met Sally. Needless to say, it was simply and completely delicious. The corned beef on rye was outrageous, along with everything else. It is a classic New York experience, and must be seen and tasted to be believed.
We walked around Greenwich some more, then headed back to the hotel for some relaxation. After that we headed over to New World Stages, and found a nearby restaurant before our evening performance of “Avenue Q”. Dinner was tasty, and then it was over to the beautiful complex which housed the show, as well as 4 other various productions.
The show, as I expected, was terrific. It has held up fantastically, and looks great in its new Off-Broadway location. The performances were all great, with the standout being Sarah Stiles, who was truly fantastic as Kate Monster. The show has such a sweet, funny book, and the songs are as tuneful and hilarious as they were when I first heard them. It is still a definite must-see, and if you have waited 6 years to see it, it is still not too late.
After the show, it was a tasty dessert at Thalia. So, on to our last day!!
Day 7: “Race” and “Billy Elliott”
Posted by Bill Alpert | Filed under Musical Theater, Reviews, The Actor's Corner
Day 7 began with a late wakeup, and a trip over to Gray’s Papaya for some juicy hot dogs, and then a little shopping. The hot dogs were quite tasty, and definitely worth the $4.45 price for two dogs and a drink. After that we headed over to the gorgeous Ethel Barrymoore Theatre for David Mamet’s “Race”. We had 4th row seats, and had ourselves a pretty wonderful time.
The play was anchored by two wonderful performances- James Spader and David Allen Grier- and they were truly terrific. The play was tight, intense, and fascinating, in true Mamet style. Delving in deeply to the question of Race in America, it left you with a lot of questions, and led to some great post-theater discussions. I won’t say too much more, so you can discover it all for yourself. But just know that it is provocative, vulgar, and an all out theatrical thrill ride.
After that, it was dinner time- then onto “Billy Elliot”. We headed over to the lovely Imperial Theater for the show, and needless to say- it was a major dissapointment, in every single way. The show just never really took off from the ground. The score was completely unmemorable, the book was corny, and the performances, save for Jacob Clemente- as Billy, were bland. Other than a few fine dance numbers, (but hardly enough) the show seemed to me like a retread of many stories told before (and better).
Leaving the theater, I couldn’t help but wondering what all the fuss was about. I would love to hear an impassioned defense of the show- because I just don’t get it, nor do I see what has inspired the fanatic fans, who seem to obsess over it. My personal advice would therefore be, skip it. There is so much more to see in NY. The fact that this beat out “Next To Normal” at the Tony’s last year is a travesty.
Oh well, on to the next day.
Day 6. “A Little Night Music” and “Promises, Promises”
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under Musical Theater, Reviews, The Actor's Corner
Day 6 began quickly. We slept in, due to the previous night’s festivities, and got ready quickly. We headed to the “Food Emporium” for lunch, which was quick and delicious. After that, it was on to our first show of the day, “A Little Night Music” at the lovely Walter Kerr Theatre.
The show was terrific. I had never seen it before, and I just fell in love with the magic of the entire piece. Sondheim’s music is simply brilliant, and Hugh Wheeler’s book is delightful, and full of wit and love. The cast was uniformly excellent, but the two standouts had their names above the title. Catherine Zeta-Jones made a delightful Desiree Arnfeldt, and commanded the stage with charm, charisma and beauty. Her “Send in The Clowns” was simple, yet devastating.
But the highlight for me personally, was Angela Lansbury. Having a chance to witness this woman- at age 85, command the stage in the way that she did, was a true thrill. She exuded power, grace, and great humor and humanity in the role of Madam Arnfeldt. Her last scene in the show is one I won’t soon forget. What a treat to see her in person, and see a true theatrical master class at work. Her song “Liasons”, was also a highlight.
After the show, we grabbed a great dinner at Sardi’s, then headed down Broadway to see “Promises, Promises.” This was another treat, and fun, and funny evening. Although this show was written in 1968, Neil Simon’s book still crackled, and Burt Bacharach’s score still buzzed with excitement.
The performances were excellent, save for one instance of miscasting. But we will start with the good first. Sean Hayes made for a charming, adorably lovable leading man- with a great knack for comic timing, and a lovely singing voice. You were on his side from his first moment on stage. Tony Goldwyn made a wonderful villian, suave, and complex as the boss with a shady personal life. Dick Latessa was hilarious as the kind-hearted doctor who lives next door.
But the highlight of the evening was Katie Finneran, in one of the most electrifying performances I have ever seen. We don’t meet her until the top of Act two, and she doesn’t stay with us too long, but her performance, as a crazy and lovable girl at a bar was perhaps the funniest performance I have seen in New York- or frankly, anywhere. You never want her to leave the stage, and her comedic choices and line readings had me literally doubled over in laughter, along with the whole audience. She’s simply that good, and will definitely take home the Tony.
The miscasting, is unfortunately with the leading lady. Kristen Chenoweth, who I love- and think is a total genius, is simply wrong for her part. She’s too old to play Fran, and Kristin, with her bubbly persona, is a strange choice to play such a complex, yet insecure woman facing a life crisis. However, she sounds great as usual, and does the best she can given the casting error. Unfortunately, something just seems amiss.
But overall, this is a minor blip on the radar. The show is simply a blast from start to finish, and the show, as directed and choreographed by Rob Marshall (Parade at the Mark Taper) is simply a joy to behold. It’s another one not to be missed. The whole show is just terrific! And especially that Katie Finneran. Someone give her a show of her own!
So now, on to day 7!
Day 5. “West Side Story”
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under Musical Theater, Reviews, The Actor's Corner
Day 5 began with another trip to the New York Library of the Performing Arts, where we viewed the original cast of ” Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”. I saw them twice in 2005, and it was a joy to witness it again, preserved beautifully, forever.
After our few hours there in the viewing room, we headed out, and had a delicious quick lunch at Cafe Duke. Then we headed back to the hotel to get ready for our evening’s activities, “West Side Story” and the “After Party”, a legendary New York open mic.
“West Side” was quite wonderful. To see the legendary musical live for the first time was a thrill, and to witness the dancing, and Jerome Robbins’ original choreography was undeniably inspiring. The cast was uniformly excellent, and the set, and lighting beautifully established the mood, and setting.
My only complaint about “West Side” would be the changes made to the show in this revival- changing some of the Sharks’ lyrics, and dialogue to Spanish. I understand the impulse behind doing this, and it sounds like a good idea on paper- but it just ends up being distracting, and sort of dull. It robs a few numbers of their tightness, and mostly just seems forced. I understand that Arthur Laurents’ book doesn’t represent how the Puerto Rican’s would actually talk in 1957, but that’s ok. This is a musical, and people are always willing to suspend their disbelief. You have dancing gang members for God’s sake! Altering a classic show at this time is actually more irritating than any corniness in the script. However, it did not amount to much of a complaint, because the show, and cast was altogether terrific.
After the show, we went to The Laurie Beechman Theatre- located under the West Bank Cafe, where there is a weekly open mic, and show called “The After Party”. Hosted by the hilarious Brandon Cutrell, it was a great evening, with many terrific surprise guests from the Broadway community. After a few hours, my girlfriend and I sang, and had an absolute blast. The audience seemed to really enjoy it, and so did we. It was a real thrill to get up in this theater with brilliant acoustics, and sing in front of so many people in the NY theater community. It is a great opportunity, and I would advise any aspiring New York performers to get over to 42nd and 9th, and go do it!
After that, it was past 3, and we had a quick bite and headed back to the hotel. On to the next day!
New York Trip Day 4. “Next To Normal”
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under Musical Theater, Reviews, The Actor's Corner
Day four of the trip began quite deliciously, at Murray’s bagels in Greenwich. After the yummy breakfast of lox and bagels, we headed back to the hotel to freshen up, then headed to Lincoln Center to check out the New York Library of The Performing Arts. This library features many books, recordings, and films of performing arts, or artists. But what we came to see was the theatre on film archive. For many years now, Lincoln Center has made it their duty to preserve the great performances of our time.
This place was completely amazing, as their collection is more extensive than I could ever imagine. We spent a while browsing and perusing the unbelievable variety of shows available to view, and to my amazement many things that I thought would never be seen again. For our first show, we decided to watch “The Pillowman”, which was a play I saw on Broadway in 2005 that I simply never forgot. I got to share it with company, and I was pleased to see they loved it as much as I did. What a treat that I could witness that amazing cast one more time, and actually pass my experience along.
After dinner we went to a lame diner where the waiters sang. Needless to say, they weren’t too hot and neither was the food. But what followed that was the highlight of the trip so far.
We headed to the Booth Theatre, to see “Next To Normal”, and frankly, it was a complete masterpiece. Every performance, every song, every moment was so real, so heartfelt, and so beautiful. Tom Kitt’s score, and Brian Yorkey’s book masterfully brought this fascinating study in mental illness, and its effect on a family, to incredible theatrical life. Alice Ripley was simply divine- and filled every moment, breaking hearts all the way as the tragic Diana. Brian D’arcy James was splendid, matching her every moment in fine voice, as the devoted husband, who witnesses his wife’s utter deconstruction. Kyle Dean Massey, and Jenn Damiano were also wonderful, along with Adam Chanler-Berat and Louis Hobson.
This show is a true must see, and there is no way you can go to New York without seeing it. It is touring, so there can be no missing it, wherever it goes. You will be moved, and inspired, and possibly even changed. This may sound like hyperbole, but, your just going to have to take my word for it.
“Next To Normal” is what going to the theater is all about, and frankly, should aspire to be on every occasion.
New York Trip. Day 3. “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Lend Me A Tenor”.
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under The Actor's Corner
Day 3 was a hurried affair, from a late wakeup to a quick lunch at a tasty Italian place. That was followed shortly by “La Cage Aux Folles”. I had high expectations for this show, and I can’t say they were entirely fulfilled.
First off, I will start off with the good. Kelsey Grammer and Douglas Hodge were delightful- with wonderful chemistry, and terrific individual moments. Grammer was completely charming, slick, and wonderful in his role, and his “Song on The Sand” was beautifully touching. Douglas Hodge was hilarious, mining every moment perfectly for its maximum comedic output. At the same time, he managed to pull at the heartstrings with his devastating “I am What I am”. These two, and their terrific moments made the entire show a must.
Other than the leads, however, my verdict on the show is not a highly positive one. Musically, I thought the orchestrations were small and tinny, and did not seem to support the energy the cast was putting out. And speaking of that cast, aside from Robin DeJesus’ show stealing maid, and Christine Andreas’ wonderful Jaqueline, there wasn’t much nice to say at all.
The Cagelles, while impressive in doses, just didn’t seem to ever stop the show, which they must. Instead of ending with an explosion, their numbers just sometimes petered out. And most unfortunate were AJ Shively, as Jean Michelle, and Elenna Shadow, as Anne, respectively, whose performances were eerily reminiscent of community theater. The show’s book has grown creaky with age, and the songs now seem pat and repetitive. But still, the two leads managed to make it a worth while outing.
On a much brighter note, we fetched a delicious dinner at Thalia’s, and headed to the beautifully rustic Music Box to catch “Lend Me A Tenor”. This production was simply a great evening of old fashioned fun. All the performances were excellent, and the play is a modern farce classic. It holds up under any circumstance, but it was wonderful to see Broadway actors plumb the material for all of its worth. Particular standouts to me were the incomparable Jan Maxwell as Maria, who took her character to places I had never even seen before, and will win the Tony for her efforts. Justin Bartha was charming, and hilariously neurotic as Max, along with Anthony LaPaglia’s loveably silly Tito. Tony Shaloub was terrific, of course, along with Mary Catherine Garrison and Jennifer Laura Thompson, as Maggie and Diana respectively. It was a total blast, and a great way to spend an evening.
We followed up the show with a delicious dessert at Kyotofu, a Japanese dessert bar on 9th. Yum.
On to the next day!
New York Trip. Day 2. “Fences”
Posted by brandonalpert | Filed under The Actor's Corner
Day two of my trip began with a lovely stroll through Greenwich Village. While there, we walked up countless little streets and avenues, observing the beautiful social life and charm of the area, and its little shops, bakeries, and boutiques. For lunch, we stopped at the Life Cafe, a prime Jonathan Larson hangout, which was forever immortalized in his “Rent.” Not only was it delicious, but we got to sign the famous “RentHead Register”, ( dedicated to fans of Rent), which is displayed in the restaurant. Through signing this, you become a part of Rent-lore forever. The cast of The Grove in Upland has officially been entered into this famous logbook, and I hope other cast members will eventually get to see our little mark into Rent history.
The afternoon consisted of some more walking, a wonderful chai latte, and a subway trip back to the hotel. We freshened up, and left for a quick pre-show snack at Maxie’s. After some tasty appetizers, we headed over to get in line for “Fences” the revival of August Wilson’s classic play, starring Denzel Washington and Viola Davis.
The play is a modern classic, and should be mandatory reading in every high school classroom. But this production made it shine even brighter. Driven by two powerhouse performances, and an incredibly strong supporting cast, the play was completely transfixing, touching, and achingly beautiful. Denzel commanded the stage with a powerful, natural, and altogether unforgettable performance. I have always loved Mr. Washington’s work, but he outdid himself here. Viola matched him every step of the way, conveying pain, devastation, and remarkable bravery in the face of tragedy. She was strong, heartbreaking, and completely divine in the role. This was a totally perfect evening of theater, not to mention this: After the show we shook Denzel’s hand, and got an autograph from Viola Davis. They were both as lovely and gracious as could be, and made the experience just that much better.
This production is unfortunately only in NY for a few more weeks, but the rumor is that a film will be made with this cast. Let’s hope so, because it deserved to be preserved.
After the show, we followed up with a late supper at Thalia, and walked around Times Square until after midnight. Another perfect day in the books, on to the next one.
