<![CDATA[Innuendo & Outuendo Forums - All Forums]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/ Sun, 19 May 2013 06:03:39 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[What movies/books do you want to see made into musicals?]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=603 Sun, 12 May 2013 14:42:52 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=603 ]]> ]]> <![CDATA[Wicked - Thoughts from New Orleans]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=602 Thu, 09 May 2013 21:36:48 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=602
***Obviously, I think every one of these performers are talented and were hired for a reason. My opinions on their takes on the role in no way reflect on how talented I feel they are as performers.***

* Alison Luff is very strong as Elphaba vocally. She has a very clear, yet powerful voices, an for the most part, makes excellent vocal choices. She does the "things I've never felt" lift and the higher second "bring me down", as well as a few other neat things, such as not breathing between "find me" and "look" and singing the last "again" like Idina on the cast recording - it's very clear and perfectly on the note. Her acting has some very nice moments as well, and it's clear that she's still fleshing out Elphaba a bit, especially in Act 2. I'd like to see her character arc become a bit more defined as the character grows older.

* Jenn Gambatese is BEAUTIFUL as Glinda, in all aspects. She looks great, her voice simply rings throughout the theatre, and she is so quirky and makes so many unique acting choices. She's clearly been given a bit of freedom with some of her line readings, and she's very refreshing in the role.

* I wasn't too keen on Curt Hansen as Fiyero - he's a sweet guy, and he has some awesome moments, but some of his vocals seemed a bit off to me, and I thought sometimes, he just really didn't seem into it. Still, he's new, and I'm excited to watch him continue to grow in the role.

* Kim Zimmer STEALS the show as Madame Morrible. She is hilarious and just down-right mean. My friend and I called her the "pitbull Morrible". She's scary, funny, and just great. One example is when she first sees Elphaba: she screams but then makes this sound of horror in her face. I laughed so hard I snorted. (confession)

* John Davidson was a too hammy for my tastes, but had a few good moments as The Wizard. It's worth noting that the key of "A Sentimental Man" is lowered for him; I actually like it better in this key. He missed quite a few words/little lines last night, so I think he might have been having an off night.

* Jaime Rosenstein does a good job acting WWOTE - she plays the scorned Nessa pretty well. She seems to have a bit of trouble with what voice (chest vs. head) to place some of the vocals in, but I feel like she will continue to grow in the role as she does it for longer.

* Jesse JP Johnson is a great Boq. Saw him last year on Broadway and loved him in the role, and unsurprisingly, he only continues to grow. His acting choices are funny without being over the top, and his vocals are smooth and effortless.

* Clifton Davis does a good job with Dillamond - very solid in the role.

Also worth noting: Courtney Iventosch, Nirine Brown, Sarah Schenkken, Trevor Krahl, and Nicky Vendetti are standouts in the ensemble, especially Courtney. She makes GREAT faces, seems very into it, and is a great dancer. Trevor also makes very appropriate faces and is a very snappy dancer.

Excited to see this cast several more times during the run!]]>
***Obviously, I think every one of these performers are talented and were hired for a reason. My opinions on their takes on the role in no way reflect on how talented I feel they are as performers.***

* Alison Luff is very strong as Elphaba vocally. She has a very clear, yet powerful voices, an for the most part, makes excellent vocal choices. She does the "things I've never felt" lift and the higher second "bring me down", as well as a few other neat things, such as not breathing between "find me" and "look" and singing the last "again" like Idina on the cast recording - it's very clear and perfectly on the note. Her acting has some very nice moments as well, and it's clear that she's still fleshing out Elphaba a bit, especially in Act 2. I'd like to see her character arc become a bit more defined as the character grows older.

* Jenn Gambatese is BEAUTIFUL as Glinda, in all aspects. She looks great, her voice simply rings throughout the theatre, and she is so quirky and makes so many unique acting choices. She's clearly been given a bit of freedom with some of her line readings, and she's very refreshing in the role.

* I wasn't too keen on Curt Hansen as Fiyero - he's a sweet guy, and he has some awesome moments, but some of his vocals seemed a bit off to me, and I thought sometimes, he just really didn't seem into it. Still, he's new, and I'm excited to watch him continue to grow in the role.

* Kim Zimmer STEALS the show as Madame Morrible. She is hilarious and just down-right mean. My friend and I called her the "pitbull Morrible". She's scary, funny, and just great. One example is when she first sees Elphaba: she screams but then makes this sound of horror in her face. I laughed so hard I snorted. (confession)

* John Davidson was a too hammy for my tastes, but had a few good moments as The Wizard. It's worth noting that the key of "A Sentimental Man" is lowered for him; I actually like it better in this key. He missed quite a few words/little lines last night, so I think he might have been having an off night.

* Jaime Rosenstein does a good job acting WWOTE - she plays the scorned Nessa pretty well. She seems to have a bit of trouble with what voice (chest vs. head) to place some of the vocals in, but I feel like she will continue to grow in the role as she does it for longer.

* Jesse JP Johnson is a great Boq. Saw him last year on Broadway and loved him in the role, and unsurprisingly, he only continues to grow. His acting choices are funny without being over the top, and his vocals are smooth and effortless.

* Clifton Davis does a good job with Dillamond - very solid in the role.

Also worth noting: Courtney Iventosch, Nirine Brown, Sarah Schenkken, Trevor Krahl, and Nicky Vendetti are standouts in the ensemble, especially Courtney. She makes GREAT faces, seems very into it, and is a great dancer. Trevor also makes very appropriate faces and is a very snappy dancer.

Excited to see this cast several more times during the run!]]> <![CDATA[2nd Tour Closing?]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=601 Thu, 09 May 2013 21:33:59 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=601 <![CDATA[What would be good audition songs for the wicked witch of the west?]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=600 Wed, 08 May 2013 01:44:46 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=600 <![CDATA[Rankings ]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=599 Tue, 07 May 2013 15:44:03 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=599
I'm just going to do Elphaba for now. My experience with Elphabas have been different than with any other performer who plays a different character in Wicked, because I have sincerely loved all of the Elphabas I've seen so far. Some more than others, but for the most part, all of them are really squished together closely. I'll continue to update as I see new performers. Excluding Julia/Kendra because I don't remember them well enough.

OVERALL:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Willemijn Verkaik
(tiny gap)
3. Donna Vivino
4. Alyssa Fox
5. Vicki Noon
6. Jennifer DiNoia
(tiny gap)
7. Mandy Gonzalez
8. Jackie Burns

ACTING:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Willemijn Verkaik
3. Donna Vivino
4. Vicki Noon
5. Jennifer DiNoia
6. Alyssa Fox
7. Jackie Burns
8. Mandy Gonzalez

SINGING:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Willemijn Verkaik
3. Vicki Noon
4. Alyssa Fox
5. Donna Vivino
6. Jennifer DiNoia
7. Mandy Gonzalez
8. Jackie Burns

CHARISMA:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Alyssa Fox
3. Jackie Burns
4. Willemijn Verkaik
5. Jennifer DiNoia
6. Donna Vivino
7. Vicki Noon
8. Mandy Gonzalez

TRANSFORMATION:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Mandy Gonzalez
3. Willemijn Verkaik
4. Jennifer DiNoia
5. Jackie Burns
6. Donna Vivino
7. Vicki Noon
8. Alyssa Fox]]>
I'm just going to do Elphaba for now. My experience with Elphabas have been different than with any other performer who plays a different character in Wicked, because I have sincerely loved all of the Elphabas I've seen so far. Some more than others, but for the most part, all of them are really squished together closely. I'll continue to update as I see new performers. Excluding Julia/Kendra because I don't remember them well enough.

OVERALL:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Willemijn Verkaik
(tiny gap)
3. Donna Vivino
4. Alyssa Fox
5. Vicki Noon
6. Jennifer DiNoia
(tiny gap)
7. Mandy Gonzalez
8. Jackie Burns

ACTING:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Willemijn Verkaik
3. Donna Vivino
4. Vicki Noon
5. Jennifer DiNoia
6. Alyssa Fox
7. Jackie Burns
8. Mandy Gonzalez

SINGING:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Willemijn Verkaik
3. Vicki Noon
4. Alyssa Fox
5. Donna Vivino
6. Jennifer DiNoia
7. Mandy Gonzalez
8. Jackie Burns

CHARISMA:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Alyssa Fox
3. Jackie Burns
4. Willemijn Verkaik
5. Jennifer DiNoia
6. Donna Vivino
7. Vicki Noon
8. Mandy Gonzalez

TRANSFORMATION:

1. Christine Dwyer
2. Mandy Gonzalez
3. Willemijn Verkaik
4. Jennifer DiNoia
5. Jackie Burns
6. Donna Vivino
7. Vicki Noon
8. Alyssa Fox]]> <![CDATA[Best Performers Vocally ]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=598 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:21:55 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=598 <![CDATA[Annaleigh Ashford and SJB Nominated for Tony]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=597 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:57:37 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=597 <![CDATA['Wicked' alums nominated for Drama Desk Awards]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=596 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:44:56 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=596 Wicked have received nominations at the 58th Drama Desk Awards. Future Wicked cast-member Lindsay Mendez also received a nomination.

Outstanding Actress in a Play
Julia Murney, Falling

Outstanding Actor in a Musical
Ryan Silverman, Passion

Outstanding Actress in a Musical
Stephanie J. Block, The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Lindsay Mendez, Dogfight

Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical
Andy Karl, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical
Annaleigh Ashford, Kinky Boots

Former Madame Morrible Jayne Houdyshell will also receive a special award for her, "For her artistry as an exceptionally versatile and distinctive Broadway and Off-Broadway performer."

http://playbill.com/news/article/177397-...d-the-Pack]]> Wicked have received nominations at the 58th Drama Desk Awards. Future Wicked cast-member Lindsay Mendez also received a nomination.

Outstanding Actress in a Play
Julia Murney, Falling

Outstanding Actor in a Musical
Ryan Silverman, Passion

Outstanding Actress in a Musical
Stephanie J. Block, The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Lindsay Mendez, Dogfight

Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical
Andy Karl, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical
Annaleigh Ashford, Kinky Boots

Former Madame Morrible Jayne Houdyshell will also receive a special award for her, "For her artistry as an exceptionally versatile and distinctive Broadway and Off-Broadway performer."

http://playbill.com/news/article/177397-...d-the-Pack]]> <![CDATA[Review: April 27, 2013]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=595 Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:16:21 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=595 This is my third time seeing Wicked here in my home city. I saw it in 2005 and 2010. The tour is still in fine shape, but the production seemed to flow better when I saw it three years ago. Here are my thoughts on the two leads:

Dee Roscioli: I've been a fan of Dee's ever since she did the Chicago production. I was very excited to her especially after my sister had said such great things about her after she saw Wicked in January 2009. Dee was definitely the highlight of the show for me last night. I really enjoyed her first act Elphaba. She really got the bookworm character down. Her second act Elphaba also had plenty of depth. I loved her voice and the riffs she did. I'm really glad I got to see her before she left.


Jenn Gambatese: Vocally, she is the best Glinda I have seen. Her Act I version had plenty of humor and her "Popular" was hilarious. However, I did not think she brought so much depth to the character during Act II. I thought Kendra Kassebaum and Chandra Lee Schwartz did a better job with that. I enjoyed her, but acting wise she's probably my least favorite of the three Glindas that I have seen.


As for the supporting cast I have to say that I was little underwhelmed with most of them unfortunately. The 2005 and 2010 national tour casts had much more charisma, better acting chops, and stronger vocals. I thought Tom McGowen, Jesse JP Johnson, and Clifton Davis were probably the strongest actors and singers of the bunch. Curt Hasnsen's portrayal of Fiyero was okay, but his voice was not very strong. I don't think Kim Zimmer really nailed the evil side of Madame Morrible. I really did not care for Demaree Hill's portrayal of Nessarose.


Overall, I'm glad I got to see the show again and the two leads are great performers and singer. However, it was probably my least favorite Wicked experience. ]]> This is my third time seeing Wicked here in my home city. I saw it in 2005 and 2010. The tour is still in fine shape, but the production seemed to flow better when I saw it three years ago. Here are my thoughts on the two leads:

Dee Roscioli: I've been a fan of Dee's ever since she did the Chicago production. I was very excited to her especially after my sister had said such great things about her after she saw Wicked in January 2009. Dee was definitely the highlight of the show for me last night. I really enjoyed her first act Elphaba. She really got the bookworm character down. Her second act Elphaba also had plenty of depth. I loved her voice and the riffs she did. I'm really glad I got to see her before she left.


Jenn Gambatese: Vocally, she is the best Glinda I have seen. Her Act I version had plenty of humor and her "Popular" was hilarious. However, I did not think she brought so much depth to the character during Act II. I thought Kendra Kassebaum and Chandra Lee Schwartz did a better job with that. I enjoyed her, but acting wise she's probably my least favorite of the three Glindas that I have seen.


As for the supporting cast I have to say that I was little underwhelmed with most of them unfortunately. The 2005 and 2010 national tour casts had much more charisma, better acting chops, and stronger vocals. I thought Tom McGowen, Jesse JP Johnson, and Clifton Davis were probably the strongest actors and singers of the bunch. Curt Hasnsen's portrayal of Fiyero was okay, but his voice was not very strong. I don't think Kim Zimmer really nailed the evil side of Madame Morrible. I really did not care for Demaree Hill's portrayal of Nessarose.


Overall, I'm glad I got to see the show again and the two leads are great performers and singer. However, it was probably my least favorite Wicked experience. ]]> <![CDATA['Wicked' spoofs 'The Hunger Games']]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=594 Sat, 27 Apr 2013 16:17:25 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=594

http://westend.broadwayworld.com/videopl...lid=496125]]>

http://westend.broadwayworld.com/videopl...lid=496125]]> <![CDATA[Performers' Websites, Twitters, Facebooks Pages, Etc]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=593 Sat, 27 Apr 2013 10:14:01 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=593 Here's the brand new thread to links for performers' websites, Twitters, Facebooks pages, etc. I had to redo it and chop it up into multiple posts, because the original post was far to unwieldy to edit, and the code kept getting messed up. So here's your new thread! As always, feel free to post any links you find, and one of the staff members will add it to the master list. Remember, no private Facebooks pages, etc. Please only post links to pages that performers add fans on.

Click on a link to jump directly to a post.

Performer Websites
Performer Twitters
Performer Facebook Pages
Performer Blogs/Tumblr/You Tube Channels/Miscellaneous Links]]> Here's the brand new thread to links for performers' websites, Twitters, Facebooks pages, etc. I had to redo it and chop it up into multiple posts, because the original post was far to unwieldy to edit, and the code kept getting messed up. So here's your new thread! As always, feel free to post any links you find, and one of the staff members will add it to the master list. Remember, no private Facebooks pages, etc. Please only post links to pages that performers add fans on.

Click on a link to jump directly to a post.

Performer Websites
Performer Twitters
Performer Facebook Pages
Performer Blogs/Tumblr/You Tube Channels/Miscellaneous Links]]> <![CDATA[Gigs and Concerts]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=592 Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:12:41 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=592
It's probably my favourite thing to do. Tongue I've seen quite a few people over the past 4/5 years.

I'm going to see Beyonce at London's 02 Arena next Sunday. I've also got tickets to Bruno Mars later in the year and I'm going to Glastonbury Festival in June - my third time. Big Grin Very excited!!

Who have you got tickets to see?]]>
It's probably my favourite thing to do. Tongue I've seen quite a few people over the past 4/5 years.

I'm going to see Beyonce at London's 02 Arena next Sunday. I've also got tickets to Bruno Mars later in the year and I'm going to Glastonbury Festival in June - my third time. Big Grin Very excited!!

Who have you got tickets to see?]]> <![CDATA[Wicked Mexico:Confirmed]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=590 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:03:47 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=590 http://www.broadwayspotted.com

Auditions are being held in Mexico this month Smile

http://www.broadwayspotted.com/a-wicked-opportunity/

At first, i was skeptical then i did a little research Smile then i found their official fb and twitter page Big Grin

https://www.facebook.com/WickedMexico

https://twitter.com/Wicked_Mx

-then in one of the fb photo albums it says "audiciones" which obviously translates to audition in english so most probably they are holding auditions now

Smile

But i hope they cast Irlanda Gonzalez



-Her cover of "No Good Deed " is absolutely amazing Big Grin

It is slated for a 2014 opening Smile]]> http://www.broadwayspotted.com

Auditions are being held in Mexico this month Smile

http://www.broadwayspotted.com/a-wicked-opportunity/

At first, i was skeptical then i did a little research Smile then i found their official fb and twitter page Big Grin

https://www.facebook.com/WickedMexico

https://twitter.com/Wicked_Mx

-then in one of the fb photo albums it says "audiciones" which obviously translates to audition in english so most probably they are holding auditions now

Smile

But i hope they cast Irlanda Gonzalez



-Her cover of "No Good Deed " is absolutely amazing Big Grin

It is slated for a 2014 opening Smile]]> <![CDATA[Quick Review 4/19]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=588 Sun, 21 Apr 2013 03:39:41 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=588 I finally saw the Broadway production on Friday. I am still in disbelief over everything. I'm just getting back from NYC so I'm gonna go pass out but here is a brief sneak peak.
-AWESOME audience...seriously the most electrifying performance and audience ever
-First Time I have seen it on Broadway so expect some comparisons to the other tours haha
-Willemijn is the supreme Leading Lady on Broadway. It is law.
-Alli got a bit emotional
-Kyle Dean Massey...hottest Fiyero
-Sat next to a lovely fan who has seen Willemijn 12 times in Gerrmany and Holland
-Also sat next to two girls who fell in love with my ruby slippers (I have vans that are sparkly)
-Seriously, this performance reminded me why I love WICKED so much.

Okay. So I am gonna start off by saying that this particular performance has brought the reason I love WICKED so much, right back into my mind. Don't get me wrong...every time I have seen it, I have left the theater feeling happy. I can honestly say that I have never experienced a "Bad" WICKED performance. BUT...this experience was by far the best. Mostly because of the cast.
I wanna talk about the technical side of the production first though. I have of course seen pictures/videos of the set. But that never fully prepares you for the REAL thing. The set is beautiful. I noticed things I have never noticed before in any pictures. The amount of fog they used was perfect (esp. for NGD) and the lighting was the best I have seen it. The Theater itself is massive...but honestly, I am so used to touring houses that I was shocked at how much smaller the Gershwin is compared to the Rochester Auditorium or CPAC. I have been in many Broadway houses, and I know that all Broadway theaters are smaller because they are compacted so much but I thought the Gershwin would be much bigger. But I liked the feel of it. Every seat was a good seat it seemed, esp. since the orchestra has a MUCH steeper angle then touring houses, which means practically no heads in your way. I was sitting in row EE on the Stage Left side and the seats were PERFECT.

Now onto the show.
Willemijn: She is the perfect Elphaba IMO. The moment she ran out, she just embodied Elphaba. I have seen 6 Elphaba's, and before Willemijn...I would NEVER be able to pick my favorite. Willemijn changed that. She had this very "rigid" way of walking which made sense to me since Elphaba would probably have a very different way of walking/moving around. Her comedic timing was perfect. She dead-panned so many things that it just made the audience die of laughter. Her voice is just...out of this world. I must note that this audience was INCREDIBLE. As soon as the lights dimmed, applause. As soon as the orchestra started...applause. When Willemijn entered...HUGE applause. AND as soon as she hit "TEAAM" in TWAI, more applause. As she held the note out on "And Iiiiiii" there was even more applause and cheering. It was electrifying. She did many riffs and vocal modifications to the score that made every song unique and special. I have taken my boyfriend to see it three times (first with Christine, then with Jennifer and now here) and although he LOVES the music and story, there was always one or two songs that made him a bit bored (ALAYM and DTL mostly) but he said tonight...every song was thrilling. She did spectacular riffs in DG (all the usual ones plus her new ones...)
-LOOOK to the western
-Chance toooFLLLY
-Renoo-oo-wn
-Bring mee DOOO--ooo--oOOown
The audience gave her a HUGE applause during her accent, and the end was met with a thunderous mass of cheering and clapping that lasted forever. It was by far the best Defying Gravity I have ever witnessed.
Her NGD is the best I have heard also. THe amount of Fog they use is immense, and makes the overall picture of the song so much more intense. This is my boyfriends favorite song, and he said that she captured the feeling perfectly. The way she delved into the darkness of the piece and the intensity in her eyes made this song haunting. Plus, this was the first time I have seen an Elphaba come up through the stage, which IMO, is the best way to do it.

Alli: She pulled out all the stops for this performance. You could tell she was gearing up for her final weekend. She took in many moments throughout the show it seemed. Almost like she was savoring the moment. Her comedic timing is tied only with Katie Rose IMO. Her voice is also the best I have heard in the role. It's kind of nasal, but not in a grating way. Her Popular had people in stitches, and throughout the night she found humor in lines that I didn't think a Glinda could find humor in. Most of them I liked. However I did wish she would have made some of the more serious parts a little more...dark. For instance, when she hands the hat back to Elphaba during the catfight, the way she said "Do it" was hysterical. But not right for that moment. Later during "For Good" though, she was emotional. You could tell she was holding tears back. As was Willemijn. She did all the optional notes except for the one in Thank Goodness.

Kyle: His voice was perfect, his looks were perfect, his acting was great. He did a couple of odd things that made me go O_o but nothing that pulled me out of the story. He is by far the best Fiyero I have seen. Plus...he looks great in the pants.

I have to say, the tours do a SUPERB job at capturing the feel of the Broadway production. But after Friday...I'm not gonna lie. I don't think I will ever be able to see the tours again without comparing them to the Broadway production. Don't get me wrong...the tours are absolutely wonderful and I will be seeing them whenever they come close to me. But I am already planning a trip in July to see the show again in NYC.]]> I finally saw the Broadway production on Friday. I am still in disbelief over everything. I'm just getting back from NYC so I'm gonna go pass out but here is a brief sneak peak.
-AWESOME audience...seriously the most electrifying performance and audience ever
-First Time I have seen it on Broadway so expect some comparisons to the other tours haha
-Willemijn is the supreme Leading Lady on Broadway. It is law.
-Alli got a bit emotional
-Kyle Dean Massey...hottest Fiyero
-Sat next to a lovely fan who has seen Willemijn 12 times in Gerrmany and Holland
-Also sat next to two girls who fell in love with my ruby slippers (I have vans that are sparkly)
-Seriously, this performance reminded me why I love WICKED so much.

Okay. So I am gonna start off by saying that this particular performance has brought the reason I love WICKED so much, right back into my mind. Don't get me wrong...every time I have seen it, I have left the theater feeling happy. I can honestly say that I have never experienced a "Bad" WICKED performance. BUT...this experience was by far the best. Mostly because of the cast.
I wanna talk about the technical side of the production first though. I have of course seen pictures/videos of the set. But that never fully prepares you for the REAL thing. The set is beautiful. I noticed things I have never noticed before in any pictures. The amount of fog they used was perfect (esp. for NGD) and the lighting was the best I have seen it. The Theater itself is massive...but honestly, I am so used to touring houses that I was shocked at how much smaller the Gershwin is compared to the Rochester Auditorium or CPAC. I have been in many Broadway houses, and I know that all Broadway theaters are smaller because they are compacted so much but I thought the Gershwin would be much bigger. But I liked the feel of it. Every seat was a good seat it seemed, esp. since the orchestra has a MUCH steeper angle then touring houses, which means practically no heads in your way. I was sitting in row EE on the Stage Left side and the seats were PERFECT.

Now onto the show.
Willemijn: She is the perfect Elphaba IMO. The moment she ran out, she just embodied Elphaba. I have seen 6 Elphaba's, and before Willemijn...I would NEVER be able to pick my favorite. Willemijn changed that. She had this very "rigid" way of walking which made sense to me since Elphaba would probably have a very different way of walking/moving around. Her comedic timing was perfect. She dead-panned so many things that it just made the audience die of laughter. Her voice is just...out of this world. I must note that this audience was INCREDIBLE. As soon as the lights dimmed, applause. As soon as the orchestra started...applause. When Willemijn entered...HUGE applause. AND as soon as she hit "TEAAM" in TWAI, more applause. As she held the note out on "And Iiiiiii" there was even more applause and cheering. It was electrifying. She did many riffs and vocal modifications to the score that made every song unique and special. I have taken my boyfriend to see it three times (first with Christine, then with Jennifer and now here) and although he LOVES the music and story, there was always one or two songs that made him a bit bored (ALAYM and DTL mostly) but he said tonight...every song was thrilling. She did spectacular riffs in DG (all the usual ones plus her new ones...)
-LOOOK to the western
-Chance toooFLLLY
-Renoo-oo-wn
-Bring mee DOOO--ooo--oOOown
The audience gave her a HUGE applause during her accent, and the end was met with a thunderous mass of cheering and clapping that lasted forever. It was by far the best Defying Gravity I have ever witnessed.
Her NGD is the best I have heard also. THe amount of Fog they use is immense, and makes the overall picture of the song so much more intense. This is my boyfriends favorite song, and he said that she captured the feeling perfectly. The way she delved into the darkness of the piece and the intensity in her eyes made this song haunting. Plus, this was the first time I have seen an Elphaba come up through the stage, which IMO, is the best way to do it.

Alli: She pulled out all the stops for this performance. You could tell she was gearing up for her final weekend. She took in many moments throughout the show it seemed. Almost like she was savoring the moment. Her comedic timing is tied only with Katie Rose IMO. Her voice is also the best I have heard in the role. It's kind of nasal, but not in a grating way. Her Popular had people in stitches, and throughout the night she found humor in lines that I didn't think a Glinda could find humor in. Most of them I liked. However I did wish she would have made some of the more serious parts a little more...dark. For instance, when she hands the hat back to Elphaba during the catfight, the way she said "Do it" was hysterical. But not right for that moment. Later during "For Good" though, she was emotional. You could tell she was holding tears back. As was Willemijn. She did all the optional notes except for the one in Thank Goodness.

Kyle: His voice was perfect, his looks were perfect, his acting was great. He did a couple of odd things that made me go O_o but nothing that pulled me out of the story. He is by far the best Fiyero I have seen. Plus...he looks great in the pants.

I have to say, the tours do a SUPERB job at capturing the feel of the Broadway production. But after Friday...I'm not gonna lie. I don't think I will ever be able to see the tours again without comparing them to the Broadway production. Don't get me wrong...the tours are absolutely wonderful and I will be seeing them whenever they come close to me. But I am already planning a trip in July to see the show again in NYC.]]> <![CDATA[Wicked and alums nominated for broadway.com Audience Awards]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=587 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:29:22 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=587 Wicked have been nominated for Favorite Long Running Show and Favorite Tour. Also, some of its alums have been nominated for awards as well.


Quote:FAVORITE LONG-RUNNING SHOW

Wicked

FAVORITE TOUR

Wicked

FAVORITE ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL

Annaleigh Ashford, Kinky Boots
Stephanie J. Block, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

FAVORITE ACTOR IN A PLAY
Norbert Leo Butz, Dead Accounts

FAVORITE DIVA PERFORMANCE
Stephanie J. Block, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

FAVORITE FUNNY PERFORMANCE
Annaleigh Ashford, Kinky Boots

FAVORITE ONSTAGE PAIR
Andy Karl & Jessie Mueller, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

FAVORITE REPLACEMENT
Willemijn Verkaik, Wicked



http://www.broadway.com/buzz/168764/vote...minations/]]> Wicked have been nominated for Favorite Long Running Show and Favorite Tour. Also, some of its alums have been nominated for awards as well.


Quote:FAVORITE LONG-RUNNING SHOW

Wicked

FAVORITE TOUR

Wicked

FAVORITE ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL

Annaleigh Ashford, Kinky Boots
Stephanie J. Block, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

FAVORITE ACTOR IN A PLAY
Norbert Leo Butz, Dead Accounts

FAVORITE DIVA PERFORMANCE
Stephanie J. Block, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

FAVORITE FUNNY PERFORMANCE
Annaleigh Ashford, Kinky Boots

FAVORITE ONSTAGE PAIR
Andy Karl & Jessie Mueller, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

FAVORITE REPLACEMENT
Willemijn Verkaik, Wicked



http://www.broadway.com/buzz/168764/vote...minations/]]> <![CDATA[Quick Review: April 13th, 2013 (matinee) ]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=586 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 08:22:18 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=586
No understudies or standbys were on, but Tess Ferrell, Jenny Florkowski, and Brian Munn were performing in the ensemble. Tess was in Vicki Noon's track, but I don't know about the other two.

John Schiappa (Dr. Dillamond): One of he best I've ever seen in the role. He does a lot of unique things. The way he eats the paper in the classroom scene is disgusting and over the top, and Willemijn just looked extremely uncomfortable. It was hilarious. When he baas on "baaaaaaaaaad" the pitch of his voice goes up, which was a unique touch. He did lots of other really things that really made me love his performance. Great voice, too.

I was BLOWN AWAY by Willemijn. I saw her at her Broadway debut, and loved her then, but this was almost like a different performer. I LOVE how she mocked Alli in "What Is This Feeling." Alli pointed her fingers towards her eyes as if saying "I'm watching you!" and Willemijn put her arms up and made a sarcastic face that said "ooooh I'm so scared, I better watch out." Willemijn and Alli interact so well together. When she finds out that the Wizard is a fake by the end of act one, you literally see her deflate and become broken and empty inside. Actual tears welled up in her eyes. Her comedic timing is spot on. She is ALWAYS in the moment and I have so much respect for her take on the role. I desperately want to see her again.

As for Willemijn's vocals, they improved greatly since her debut. She let her voice ring out and fill the theater with full power which she didn't do at her debut. At her debut, I thought Defying Gravity was her weakest song, though still great and powerful. This time, I found it to be her strongest song. (In addition to her amazing acting and powerful voice, she added INSANE riffs. Such as on her "renown" (not her standard riff, but a totally new crazy one) and on the second "bring me down" (which was like Christine Dwyer on her last performance and Mandy Gonzalez's second "bring me down" riff combined, plus her other standard riffs, and vibrato in some new places.) I was shaking while she sang.

For a matinee, the audience was incredible. There was LOTS of laughter and applause. When Elphaba came out at the end when Fiyero says "it worked," there was an uproar of applause.

Popular was fantastic. Alli was hilarious and the "toss toss" section was brilliant.

I enjoyed Catherine Charlebois and F. Michael Haynie, as always.

Randy Danson was really playing up the crazy yesterday, which I kind of liked. She is my favorite in the role still.

Adam Grupper gave his best Wizard performance that I've seen. He nailed it today.

My favorite ensemble standout was Betsy Werbel--she is SO much fun to watch onstage.

Any questions, ask away. Smile]]>
No understudies or standbys were on, but Tess Ferrell, Jenny Florkowski, and Brian Munn were performing in the ensemble. Tess was in Vicki Noon's track, but I don't know about the other two.

John Schiappa (Dr. Dillamond): One of he best I've ever seen in the role. He does a lot of unique things. The way he eats the paper in the classroom scene is disgusting and over the top, and Willemijn just looked extremely uncomfortable. It was hilarious. When he baas on "baaaaaaaaaad" the pitch of his voice goes up, which was a unique touch. He did lots of other really things that really made me love his performance. Great voice, too.

I was BLOWN AWAY by Willemijn. I saw her at her Broadway debut, and loved her then, but this was almost like a different performer. I LOVE how she mocked Alli in "What Is This Feeling." Alli pointed her fingers towards her eyes as if saying "I'm watching you!" and Willemijn put her arms up and made a sarcastic face that said "ooooh I'm so scared, I better watch out." Willemijn and Alli interact so well together. When she finds out that the Wizard is a fake by the end of act one, you literally see her deflate and become broken and empty inside. Actual tears welled up in her eyes. Her comedic timing is spot on. She is ALWAYS in the moment and I have so much respect for her take on the role. I desperately want to see her again.

As for Willemijn's vocals, they improved greatly since her debut. She let her voice ring out and fill the theater with full power which she didn't do at her debut. At her debut, I thought Defying Gravity was her weakest song, though still great and powerful. This time, I found it to be her strongest song. (In addition to her amazing acting and powerful voice, she added INSANE riffs. Such as on her "renown" (not her standard riff, but a totally new crazy one) and on the second "bring me down" (which was like Christine Dwyer on her last performance and Mandy Gonzalez's second "bring me down" riff combined, plus her other standard riffs, and vibrato in some new places.) I was shaking while she sang.

For a matinee, the audience was incredible. There was LOTS of laughter and applause. When Elphaba came out at the end when Fiyero says "it worked," there was an uproar of applause.

Popular was fantastic. Alli was hilarious and the "toss toss" section was brilliant.

I enjoyed Catherine Charlebois and F. Michael Haynie, as always.

Randy Danson was really playing up the crazy yesterday, which I kind of liked. She is my favorite in the role still.

Adam Grupper gave his best Wizard performance that I've seen. He nailed it today.

My favorite ensemble standout was Betsy Werbel--she is SO much fun to watch onstage.

Any questions, ask away. Smile]]> <![CDATA[UK Tour Rumours/News]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=584 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:16:40 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=584 Thought I'd start this as there is a few bits of information cropping up now and again so I thought it would be good to have somewhere to share. [/font]Over on whatsonstage.com, a forum user as posted that there is a rumour that Carmen Cusack has been cast as Elphaba.
[font=tahoma]Little disappointed if this is true to be honest as I don't think she is anything special - not that I have seen her live and I know it can make a big difference. I'm just hoping for some new blood.


Oh well, just a rumour along with the rumour of this news being confirmed on Friday. We shall see what the end of the week brings! ]]> Thought I'd start this as there is a few bits of information cropping up now and again so I thought it would be good to have somewhere to share. [/font]Over on whatsonstage.com, a forum user as posted that there is a rumour that Carmen Cusack has been cast as Elphaba.
[font=tahoma]Little disappointed if this is true to be honest as I don't think she is anything special - not that I have seen her live and I know it can make a big difference. I'm just hoping for some new blood.


Oh well, just a rumour along with the rumour of this news being confirmed on Friday. We shall see what the end of the week brings! ]]> <![CDATA[Rochester 4/06/13 Review]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=583 Sat, 06 Apr 2013 22:08:26 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=583

Let my start off by saying that if anyone has any reservations about Jennifer, forget about them. She is brilliant.
This was my friends first time so she was ecstatic that we snatched Row U seats (which at the Auditorium Center, are great seats.)
Sorry, it's gonna be a brief run down
NOMTW: The orchestra sounded a bit quiet, maybe its because I usually sit closer to the stage but it sounded muffled for the first few bars. They quickly corrected it however.
Hayley is sublime. Her high notes are piercing, but in a good way. She almost floated over the notes and had a nice vibrato ringing throughout her voice. Her acting is PERKY. Maybe a bit too perky in some spots but I think this is just her trying to find where her characterization is. The ensemble were great as usual. Very full sound and I spotted Lilli Cooper. I really hope she goes on as Elphaba soon, she looks like she will rock the green.

DOS: I started the entrance applause Big Grin Jennifer looks absolutely beautiful in the green. Her eyes are so dark and makes you understand how someone could look at her and see a hint of Wickedness behind her. Her acting is top notch, she wasn't too shouty and played Elphaba as a bit more hurt that the students are acting so cruel towards her. Eventually she gave the notion that "oh, this has happened to me a million times before so whatever you have to say, it ain't gonna hurt me."

TWAI: Riffs. She likes to riff. But she knows where to place them, which makes a huge difference between being a pop star wannabe and a sensational risk taker, which Jennifer is. She had some riffs thrown in there that I have not really heard before such as "My whole life will change" where she changed up the melody a bit. She did the classic Eden "Feeling things I've never felt!" Her voice is just pure power. But the thing is, its such a smooth sounding voice that you never really realize that she is basically belting her a** off.

WITF: Hayley and Jennifer have great chemistry already. Jen mocked her, she mocked Jen and they had the audience in stitches. Not much to say other then they blended beautifully.

DTL: I like Billy. He kind of plays Fiyero a bit more flamboyant which sounds like it would be a bad thing. To me though, it made him endearing. I guess flamboyant would not be the word. Dorky is better. But cool dorky. Like the jock on the football team that can be the class clown that everyone wants to be around cuz he is just fun. His voice is great. A little weak during his dancing parts but that is to be expected with all the leaps and jumps he has to do. The dance between ELphie and Galinda was touching as ever.

Popular: She has to settle a little more but she was great overall. Jennifer did something a little different then what other Elphaba's do. Instead of trying to NOT play into Galinda's game, she sort of had fun with it. During the "Toss toss" part, she chuckled to herself and kind of did a "well...might as well have fun" expression. Audience loved it!

DG: HOLY MOTHER OF MUSICAL THEATRE! Jennifer took this song, and ran to the hills with it. Her acting was so fierce. She did a lot of riffs (such as...)
"So if you care to fiIIIND MMEe"
"LOOOook"
"TAAKE a message"
"Tell them hooOW III"
"I'm flying high, deeefYYIING"
And of course...that new sassy riff "BRING ME DOOooown" Which physically made me jump back in my seat.

I'm exhausted but hopefully I can finish this tomorrow Big Grin]]>

Let my start off by saying that if anyone has any reservations about Jennifer, forget about them. She is brilliant.
This was my friends first time so she was ecstatic that we snatched Row U seats (which at the Auditorium Center, are great seats.)
Sorry, it's gonna be a brief run down
NOMTW: The orchestra sounded a bit quiet, maybe its because I usually sit closer to the stage but it sounded muffled for the first few bars. They quickly corrected it however.
Hayley is sublime. Her high notes are piercing, but in a good way. She almost floated over the notes and had a nice vibrato ringing throughout her voice. Her acting is PERKY. Maybe a bit too perky in some spots but I think this is just her trying to find where her characterization is. The ensemble were great as usual. Very full sound and I spotted Lilli Cooper. I really hope she goes on as Elphaba soon, she looks like she will rock the green.

DOS: I started the entrance applause Big Grin Jennifer looks absolutely beautiful in the green. Her eyes are so dark and makes you understand how someone could look at her and see a hint of Wickedness behind her. Her acting is top notch, she wasn't too shouty and played Elphaba as a bit more hurt that the students are acting so cruel towards her. Eventually she gave the notion that "oh, this has happened to me a million times before so whatever you have to say, it ain't gonna hurt me."

TWAI: Riffs. She likes to riff. But she knows where to place them, which makes a huge difference between being a pop star wannabe and a sensational risk taker, which Jennifer is. She had some riffs thrown in there that I have not really heard before such as "My whole life will change" where she changed up the melody a bit. She did the classic Eden "Feeling things I've never felt!" Her voice is just pure power. But the thing is, its such a smooth sounding voice that you never really realize that she is basically belting her a** off.

WITF: Hayley and Jennifer have great chemistry already. Jen mocked her, she mocked Jen and they had the audience in stitches. Not much to say other then they blended beautifully.

DTL: I like Billy. He kind of plays Fiyero a bit more flamboyant which sounds like it would be a bad thing. To me though, it made him endearing. I guess flamboyant would not be the word. Dorky is better. But cool dorky. Like the jock on the football team that can be the class clown that everyone wants to be around cuz he is just fun. His voice is great. A little weak during his dancing parts but that is to be expected with all the leaps and jumps he has to do. The dance between ELphie and Galinda was touching as ever.

Popular: She has to settle a little more but she was great overall. Jennifer did something a little different then what other Elphaba's do. Instead of trying to NOT play into Galinda's game, she sort of had fun with it. During the "Toss toss" part, she chuckled to herself and kind of did a "well...might as well have fun" expression. Audience loved it!

DG: HOLY MOTHER OF MUSICAL THEATRE! Jennifer took this song, and ran to the hills with it. Her acting was so fierce. She did a lot of riffs (such as...)
"So if you care to fiIIIND MMEe"
"LOOOook"
"TAAKE a message"
"Tell them hooOW III"
"I'm flying high, deeefYYIING"
And of course...that new sassy riff "BRING ME DOOooown" Which physically made me jump back in my seat.

I'm exhausted but hopefully I can finish this tomorrow Big Grin]]> <![CDATA[A Wicked Weekend in Charlotte (3/28-3/31)]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=582 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:01:17 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=582
http://cortsramblesrus.blogspot.com/]]>
http://cortsramblesrus.blogspot.com/]]> <![CDATA[Kerrigan-Lowdermilk]]> http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=581 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 16:37:23 -0600 http://innuendoandoutuendo.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=581