Never saw this one coming...go figure! (Not even sarcastic)
This project will most likely be different than what those who saw it at La Jolla. I'm even more surprised that they're going to have a competition or so it seems to see who will be cast.
Perhaps WONDERLAND is officially put on hold (Apparently there are no set plans? Even look at the website) and maybe Havana's not going to happen for more years to come, as Pasadena Playhouse closed.
I am not a fan of Frank Wildhorn's work. I saw 'Bonnie & Clyde' in La Jolla and was shocked that it was Wildhorn, because it was good. I see out of town shows all the time, but it's been a while since one has been this good. Yes, the show still needs work, but if his other material made it to NYC, then this should too!
If and when it opens on B'way, Laura Osnes should be given the role. She has a nice stamp on it following her performances at the Playhouse.
I spoke with Christopher Ashley while the show was still running and he agreed with me about past Wildhorn material, but also said that this show is different and was very pleased with the quality.
I am not a fan of Frank Wildhorn's work. I saw 'Bonnie & Clyde' in La Jolla and was shocked that it was Wildhorn, because it was good.
I completely agree. It was the book that made this one so good. It was basically a solid play on its own that was than complimented with good songs that were actually mostly period which is surprising for a Wildhorn show. My advice to the creative team would be to just leave it alone now. They made some great changes from previews to opening night in La Jolla, but I would say that any additional major changes made for Broadway may wreck it as has happened in the past with almost every other Wildhorn musical. It's already a shame that Stark Sands won't be continuing with the project as I thought he was brilliant and gorgeous. Hopefully they find a decent replacement.
Don had some decent somes from what I remember hearing from the demo recordings, but the lyrics have gotten worse. My favourite Wildhorn tune in this one is now called "Dyin' Ain't So Bad." I know a lot of people had mixed reactions on the lyrics to "Short Order World" as well!
The lyrics were actually pretty good. I was very surprised that they were written by Don Black. I wonder if he maybe works better without Christopher Hampton?