Kismet

City Center Encore's series is one of the quintessential New York theater experiences. An orchestral, staged presentation (on-book) version of classical musicals, presented by some of Broadways biggest stars. Even if the show is bad, like last nights Kismet, it is still a great night on Broadway.
Paul Gemignani, the new musical director, is wonderful at the podium.
Brian Stokes Mitchell was surprisingly flat. Marcy Harriell and Danny Gurwin were sadly mis-cast. Marin Mazzie and her amazing wig were a wonder though. She gave a powerhouse performance.
The show itself bores me. Stranger In Paradise is like listening to elevator music, or like we all agreed, those old orchestral records Time Records was pushing in commercials when we were kids.
The stars were out and that is always fun. Bill talked with Marge Champion.
Sondheim was there and this time we got to talk with him (Bravo Bill). Third time to see him this week.
And the highlight, getting to chat with Erika Slezak. She is lovely and charming and very funny. We talked about David Sedaris' tribute to her, and she told a couple great stories about him and a dressing room on the One Life To Live set that is named after him. She was gracious, and lovely, and so kind.
Fun night out with Bruce, Bill and John.