Theater Headliners

• The current Broadway revival of Les Mis is seeing even more cast changes, as Chip Zien, the original Baker in Into The Woods steps into the role of Thenardier for 10 weeks on June 29. Also, Megan McGinnis (Little Women), a current ensemble member, assumes the role of Eponine, and Robert Hunt assumes the role of Javert. It's not normal for shows to have so many cast changes...is this like a 'Cats' or 'Fosse' that sees a lot of cast changes because of injuries sustained while dancing (Les Mis is such a monster of a show that people can't commit to it for a long time?). Perhaps the cast really ARE "The Miserable..." Plus, the all-star casting choices reminds me of a time in college when my friend Candice and I did an all-star "this would be horrible but SO funny" casting of Rent, starring Colm Wilkinson as Roger. It was hilarious! (I wish I could find that list somewhere)...
• Lord Of The Rings, the most expensive musical in West End History (at $25 million) officially opened this week to mixed reviews (go figure). A few reporters have renamed the show "Bored Of The Rings," while others say that it's the best interpretation of the Tolkein novels there could ever be. That ring better be made of PURE GOLD, 'cause $25 million is ridiculous, and the tickets cost almost as much!
• Starting next year, a new Tony Award will be given for Best Sound. You heard me right (get it? Sound? Heard? Anyone?), Best Sound. Separate awards will be given out for Best Sound Design of a Play, and Best Sound Design of a Musical. Apparently it's important to distinguish the two. Come to think of it, I can't really think of many sound cues in the musicals I've seen lately. I wonder if the guy who caused the mic feedback in my ear when I saw Legally Blonde could be penalized.
• Tony Danza will assume the role of Max Bialystock in The Producers in Vegas in August, and is scheduled to remain in the show through August. Apparently, the creative team over at the show is desperate for a new celebrity draw, but they seem to be overlooking the fact that Danza was in the show when it posted its closing notice. Good news, Jersey Boys, you won't have to build a new theater in Vegas! One will be opening up for you shortly...