This is an interesting issue. Although Charlie is the lead role, replacement focus to date has never been on Charlie, at least I have never gotten the impression that there was any focus. I think it can go two ways, and probably a stupid third:
1. The producers conclude that they have gotten a windfall to cover future losses for any weeks in which they don't make the nut. Who says they are closing in January: With all the shows that are potentially closing in the next month or so, i.e., Miss Saigon, GHD, Bandstand, War Paint, TGC, their business may be okay. Also, if anyone looks at a comparison between 2016 and 2017 PRE-URIE, 2017 was already doing considerably better than 2016; in which case, they may not have an issue for quite awhile. They could be safe until they fall below the contractual clause that allows the theatre to evict them...which would probably only happen if there is a bigger deluge of musicals next season than I can remember.
I have to admit right this second that I can't remember when next season's musicals that are likely to spark interest start to open, since I can't remember being enthused by much of anything that's firm. If they tend to skew to opening in the Spring, it could possibly get another year.
2. The producers decide they hadn't focused enough on Charlie replacements to date, and decide to look for possible stunt casting replacements who like the idea of putting a toe in the Broadway pool a la Jake G, don't want a long-term commitment, e.g., Zac Efron, some other rock star looking to diversify, there's probably some TV stars...just can't think of any, since I don't tend to watch series on TV.
3. (This may be the dumbest idea posted today, but don't dismiss it out of hand). If they changed Charlie's sex, would that open any opportunities or create much positive publicity (as well as a different dynamic?...how much would really have to change? I don't recall Lola ever coming on to Charlie, so that wouldn't be an issue. Does that much change if Charlie is a really repressed woman...obviously, the love interest roles would need a little re-work, they might have to think a slightly different way to go into the closing number.
On second thought, maybe it will close after Christmas.
Liza's Headband said: "Dove is not on the same level as Urie. Not even close.
"
I would disagree. The kids and teens that watch Disney Channel are rabid. Coming from someone who was one of those fans about 10 years ago, I would've have done (and did do) anything in my power to see my favorite Disney Channel star. She would sell a lot of tickets. Easy.
I don't think that Cameron has as big a following as Urie. He sold way more tickets than I feel that she would. It seems as though they're doing well enough that they can afford to make it for a while after Urie without stunt casting.
I really like the idea of Gavin Creel as Charlie. He would be phenomenal. He's not much of a name to anybody who doesn't follow theatre, though like I said, I don't think they need a name right away.
A female Charlie would absolutely never work. It would ruin the dynamic of between him and Lola. A woman befriending a drag queen would make for a very different story than a straight man befriending a drag queen.
gleek4114 said: "Liza's Headband said: "Dove is not on the same level as Urie. Not even close.
"
I would disagree. The kids and teens that watch Disney Channel are rabid. Coming from someone who was one of those fans about 10 years ago, I would've have done (and did do) anything in my power to see my favorite Disney Channel star. She would sell a lot of tickets. Easy.
"
Your disagreement is noted but incorrect. It's not even comparable. Sorry.
This is slightly unrelated, but has anyone heard anything about the upcoming non-equity tour of Kinky Boots? It is supposed to play Philly in early October, so I'm kind of puzzled about the lack of information on it at this point.
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joined:2/10/11
joined:
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Posted: 7/31/17 at 11:11pm