I think Hugh put such a personal stamp on the role and the show in general, that no one can replace him. It will be unfair for his replacement also, because HUGH is PERFECT ! Even if his replacement is Brilliant, the comparison with Perfect will crush him ! And if, in order for the show to survive, they have to bring in a huge star, no big star will take the challenge, since it's a lost battle !
Ewan Mcgregor could definatley do it (ive said it before and ill say it again) Did anyone see him in Mouling Rouge? His voice was so powerful and drained out Nicole Kidman's.
"Sing the words, Patti!!!!" Stephen Sondheim to Patti LuPone.
It's basically a show-biz story. It's about Peter Allen, a gay Australian entertainer who rose from humble beginnings in the outback of Australia to become one of the best selling-entertainers in New York in the 80's. He was also a prolific song-writer ( writing such pop hits like I Honestly Love You, I'd Rather Leave When I Am In Love, I Go to Rio, and even an Oscar-winning song , Arthur's Theme, etc.). He was mentored by Judy Garland and became Liza Minnelli's first husband. The show itself, woven around his many songs which seem autobiographical as they are placed in the show, highlights his extraordinary joie de vivre.
And Hugh Jackman is incredible and extraordinary in presenting this portrait onstage. He is a true triple threat - sings with equal gusto and tenderness, dances like the best there is, and shows the audience what a very fine natural actor he is. He is also supported by an excellent cast, with Stephanie Block as Liza, Isabel Keating as Judy and Jarrod Emick as his companion, Greg.
Go see this very entertaining show - it's worth it! If only for Hugh's great adlib and audience interaction moments
I've just read on the OZ forum that Harry Connick,Jr, was interviewed and had expressed interest in the role of Peter Allen.
Hmmm - he could be a good second cast. He is talented - can sing, really plays the piano, seems a competent actor ( from a few movies I have seen him in) and can probably dance. I am sure he can handle live audiences well. Only questions -- does he have the charm of Hugh and can he sell tickets ???