BROADWAY UNDERCOVER

James Barbour is definitely doing “a far, far better thing than he has ever done before” in A  Tale of Two Cities, the new musical currently playing at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre following a four week run in Sarasota, Florida.   His Sidney Carton is a sympathetic and heroic figure who delivers each song with a beautiful rich voice while cutting an imposing presence on the stage.  Although the largely talented cast does the material justice, the entire production is a bit too reminiscent of Les Miz, without the memorable music to leave a lasting impression.  The first act has too much plot and the introduction of too many characters, but Act Two changes that dynamic.  It’s a middle of the road show, not great, not bad, but Barbour’s terrific performance makes this theatrical experience worthwhile.

Any opportunity to see Frank Langella at work is terrific time spent, so The American Airlines Theatre offering of A Man For All Seasons doesn’t miss on that level.  Although the show is a little plodding at times, this new incarnation of the Thomas Moore saga does deliver.  The supporting cast enhances this period piece, and despite an occasional distraction, we enjoyed this theatrical event.  As a point of information, the Roundabout Theatre offers the public $10 seats for the first preview of each of its productions.  Check it out.

The annual Flea Market in Shubert Alley sponsored by Broadway Cares is always fun and that surely was the case on Sunday, September 21^st.  With a bevy of Broadway and soap opera stars and many interesting show biz items auctioned and sold, this event has proven to be a great fund raiser.  The lines were quite long for those wanting to get up close and personal with some of their favorite One Life to Live and Guiding Light stars ,along with the Broadway folk, all of whom were very accommodating.

We followed this with a special Actor’s Fund performance of South Pacific, currently playing to sold out crowds at the Beaumont Theatre in Lincoln Center.  Once again this flawless production wowed ‘em, leaving the audience wanting more despite its three hour running time.  Paulo Szot revealed that although he’s leaving the show at the end of November, he will return to the production after fulfilling his opera commitments in France.  Hopefully, we will have the opportunity to visit this island for a long time to come.  

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