Issue #104: February 15, 2003

• As the March 15 closing of Les Miserables approaches, it seems mega-producer Cameron Mackintosh is turning it into a sentimental journey.  So far Broadway's original Inspector Javert, Terrence Mann, returned to the role on February 4 for the last leg of the 16-year run.  Can Colm Wilkinson be far behind?

• The lights go out on the yearlong run of The Graduate on March 2.  Looks like Lorraine Bracco will have to return to the shrink's couch on the hit TV series The Sopranos to help pay the rent.

• Good notices in Florida will help smooth the way for the opening of Urban Cowboy at the Broadhurst Theater on March 27.

• The revolving musical door on Toronto's Mirvish Productions subscription now takes on another production.  Originally the May date was to be the much anticipated The Producers, then because of scheduling conflicts with director Susan Stroman the production was moved to November (word has it that that date may be in doubt now too).  The May slot was then to be filled with the North American debut of the Sweet Charity revival starring Marisa Tomei.  Now it has too been bumped because of infighting between the producers and a creative team member.  The latest, just announced for May, is Disney's production of Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida due at the Canon Theatre.  It's only February - so who knows. We may be in for a few more changes before the curtain rises!

• An extremely high profile artistic director now takes the reins of the Old Vic.  Academy Award-winner Kevin Spacey now follows in the footsteps of Sir Peter Hall and Jonathan Miller.  Spacey has made large donations to the Old Vic in the past - Elton John, who is chairman of the Old Vic Theatre Trust, enthusiastically backs his appointment.  Some exciting times in store for London theatregoers.

• It looks like Melbourne, Australia loves David Hare's The Blue Room.  The six-week run has all but sold-out - and Nicole Kidman is nowhere in sight.  It seems the Auzzies are thrilled with the male lead, Marcus Graham, with the female lead, Sigrid Thornton, taking a back seat.

• The Oscar buzz around the movie Chicago bodes well to the ongoing box office success of the Broadway production.  With more than an 80% attendance the last week of January you can be sure the Broadway producers will be reaping the benefits of the Oscars for a long time to come.