Purlie

Whoever thought it was a good idea to cast Blair Underwood as the lead in a Broadway musical should be fired. Last night in City Center Encores "Purlie", Mr Underwood mumbled his way through a dated story. When there was dialogue, he was often not understandable, with his fake southern drawl and thick, fast, low register way of talking. His singing was even worse, dropping every long note. Particularly evident during the duet with the lovely Anika Nani Rose. Boy is she good. Saw her in Caroline or Change last year. She has a powerhouse voice and looks about 15 years old. One to watch closely.
Lilias White was great while she was singing, but I still feel actors should know their lines better, even during "on the book" encores presentations. I get annoyed when they stumble or forget lines and have to pause to find their story on the page. Annoying. And John Cullum, who was wonderful in Sin, A Cardinal Deposed, had to rely almost completely on the book. A very disappointing night.
Great music, mixed talent and poor book. Felt like I was sitting through required theater watching in a high school course on Broadway.