T: Is for the Theatre

Last Sunday the most prestigious awards for the achievement of excellence in theatre were passed out. For the most part none were a surprise. Best actor in a musical was expected to go to Raúl Esparza for his brilliant portrayal of Bobby in "Company", instead in went to the incomparable David Hyde Pierce for "Curtains". Theatre like everything else is political. "Company" won best revival and "Curtains" was written by the beloved John Kander and Fred Ebb along with broadway favorite Rupert Holmes (The Mystery of Edwin Drood). This was the last show written by this famous duo as Fred Ebb died September 11, 2004 while working on the show. By giving David Hyde Pierce the award it guaranteed this show would have a run. It does. "Company" had already planned it's closing for July 1st. Raul won the Drama Desk and the Outer Critic awards for his sensitive portrayal. I have known Raul for a very long time so it was sad to see him not get this coveted award. When one is an actor from the time you know this award exists you picture yourself in the mirror excepting it. That dream stays with you.

The most coveted ticket on Broadway is for the hit sensation "Spring Awakening" and it is no surprise that it took home a total of 9 awards. This ground breaking show about repressed sexuality is innovative and speaks volumes. If that isn't enough enticement to see this here's the synopsis: It’s Germany in 1891, and teenagers are discovering their sexuality. Wendla is confused when her mother says that babies come from a woman loving with her whole heart, and nothing more. Moritz hasn’t slept in days. His grades are slipping, and all he can think about are his long nightmares--and women. Hanschen is a shining example of the German male, who loves studying with Ernst. Martha is hiding a secret. And Melchior Gabor is sick of it all. The music to this show is a combination of traditional and pop and when you discovered the effects that repression has on the human psyche you will not be able to stop talking about it or listening to it.

I am thrilled that "Grey Gardens" won 3 Tony's. Hurray to Christine Ebersol
for Best Actress in a musical, Mary Louise Wilson for Best Supporting Actress in a musical and for Outstanding Costume Design William Ivey Long. My vote for best producers Randall L. Wreghitt and Edwin W. Schloss.

When people tell me theatre is dying I have one thing to say to them 6.2 million people watched the Tony's. Theatre will always live and that is a F.A.C.T.