Original OOTI Question

[JerseyBoy25]

Posted: 1/15/18 at 4:05pm

So, I tried to search for this thread, and couldn't find one, so apologies if this already exists, but why was LaChanze nominated for best featured actress in a musical for the original production of Once On This Island when the character of Ti Moune is clearly the lead focus of the show? Did it have something to do with how the original production was staged? (I was born after the show came out so I can't attest) Does anyone think the same thing will happen this round with Hailey Kilgore, or will they put her in lead? 

[BroadwayConcierge]

Posted: 1/15/18 at 4:09pm

Someone correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe the original OOTI producers petitioned LaChanze for Featured because Lea Salonga was pretty much a total lock for Lead Actress in Miss Saigon that season. I believe they thought a Featured nom increased LaChanze’s chances for a win (even though she ended up losing to Daisy Eagan that year).

Updated On: 1/15/18 at 04:09 PM

[AEA AGMA SM]

Posted: 1/15/18 at 4:27pm

No petition was needed for LaChanze to be nominated as Featured Actress. She was billed below the title. They would have had to petition for her to be moved out of that category and into the Best Actress category.

Original Playbill

[dramamama611]

Posted: 1/15/18 at 7:08pm

Just to clarify Sean's response for those that don't know....all actors are placed, automatically into a category based on billing. (Above or below the title)

If the producers want the actual size/impact of the role to be considered for placement instead, they petition the officials. 3 (or is it 4?) times a year, the committee sits down to discuss and make a determination. You will notice the announcements from those meetings will mention any changes, and then blanket the rest with a comment like: all others will be considered in accordance to the rules.