Five Movie Musicals You Need To Watch Over the Holidays.

We’ve officially entered the holidays, and this week on the Simon Morris Blog I wanted to help you celebrate your favourite time of the year by revealing five movie musicals you need to watch over the holidays.

Simon Morris’ Favourite Time of the Year

Ever since a young Simon Morris first decorated his first tree, I’ve been a huge fan of Christmas. There’s just something about this time of the year – the dazzling fairy lights, finding garlands of tinsel everywhere you look, munching on mince pies with the family round the tree – that just gets me right there.

In my opinion, there’s no better way to cap off the holiday season than to gather with the family around a roaring fire, and engage in a movie musical marathon. By the time the final credits role, you’ll all be singing from the rooftops, ready to welcome Santa down your chimney on Christmas Eve.

Include These Five Movie Musicals on Your Christmas Wish List

Yet with so many classic movie musicals out there, which ones should you take the time to watch over the holidays? In my opinion, the following five just have to be on the list…

1)      Annie: Don’t mistake me, I’m not talking about the new version with Cameron Diaz, although I can’t wait for that either. No, this Christmas you have to stick on the original. A classic down-on-her-luck orphan makes good story with bundles of heart, it’s sure to help you sail away from your own ‘hard knock life’ this holiday season.

2)     Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: At this point I hear you groaning, but it really is the perfect movie musical to flick on over the holiday period. Basically, it’s so wonderfully wacky that it’ll have you in stitches in minutes, and who doesn’t want to give themselves the gift of laughter this Christmas?!

3)    The Wizard of Oz: The film that launched the career of movie musical icon Judy Garland, the Wizard of Oz is perfect for any time of the year. However it’s effortless charm, dazzling shades of technicolour, fantastically whimsical characters and solid moral centre make it a movie musical you just need to watch over the holiday season!

4)      An American in Paris: If you’re looking for something to share with your lover and make memories this holiday, I’d absolutely recommend you give An American in Paris a go. The story of an American ex-GI whose paintings come to the attention of a rich American heiress makes this classic production one for the ages!

5)      White Christmas: I had to end this list with an actual Christmas themed movie musical, and what better production could I have chosen than White Christmas? The Bing Crosby classic about a successful song-and-dance team who become romantically entangled with a sister act is just so full of heart you have to watch it over the holiday season.

Don’t Stop There

I may have given you five, but you really don’t have to stop there. If you’re like me, and the best gift you can give yourself this Christmas is the gift of a movie musical marathon, sit the family down and prepare for the ride of your life this holiday season!

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The Rise of the Next Movie Musical Superstar

With 2015 set to be American actress Anna Kendrick’s year, this week on the Simon Morris blog I want to explore the rise of the woman who I believe is the next movie musical superstar.

A Kid with a TONY Award Nomination

Believe it or not, a young musical theatre enthusiast by the name of Simon Morris first became familiar with the work of an even younger Anna Kendrick way back in 1998.

That was the year she received her first credit on Broadway performing in 90’s musical High Society. Her performance was such a hit that not only did she bag a Theatre World Award, she clinched a nomination for a TONY Award.

The Year Kendrick Becomes a Bonafide Movie Musical Star

Since her turn on Broadway, her career has shot into the stratosphere. She caught the attention of global audiences when she starred in the Twilight Saga, and has developed a career in movie musicals with productions such as Pitch Perfect. She even scored a US chart hit with ‘Cups (When I’m Gone)’ – a track from the musical comedy flick.

Now it appears as if 2015 is the year that she’s going to become a bonafide movie musical star. By the time the year reaches its end, Anna Kendrick will have starred in three movie musicals.

Three Movie Musicals in One Year

Anyone who’s anyone knows that Kendrick is set to feature as Cinderella in Into the Woods. A favourite among Sondheim fans everywhere, the film – which is due to be released this Christmas – is sure to prove a hit with audiences across the world.

Yet there are two more movie musical projects starring Kendrick that are slated for a 2015 release. The first is a film adaption of 2002 Broadway production The Last Five Years. This critically acclaimed two person show is a hard mountain to conquer, and the fact that Kendrick has been tapped to climb it indicates that those whose opinions matter consider her a talented musical theatre performer.

Meanwhile, the sequel to Pitch Perfect is also scheduled for a 2015 release. Considering the popularity of the film – how it opened up the genre to people who would normally loath everything musical theatre – I have no doubt it’ll be everywhere in 2015.

Anna Kendrick Will be Everywhere

Just like Pitch Perfect 2, Anna Kendrick’s movie musical performances will be everywhere in 2015. If that doesn’t sound like the next movie musical heavyweight to you, I think you might need to ask your nearest and dearest to buy you a new dictionary this Christmas!

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Beloved Movie Musical Destined for Broadway

This week, Simon Morris learned that beloved movie musical Gigi is destined for Broadway, with High School Musical alum Vanessa Hudgens slated to star in the title role.

Simon Morris Should Have Lived in Another Decade

When I was a child, I was one of those precocious kids who would have sworn down, had someone asked him, that I belonged in another era. Specifically, the era when the classic Hollywood movie musical reigned supreme.

Many a clock hand turned from 12 to 12, whilst a young Simon Morris whiled away the hours entranced by the sounds of classic Hollywood show tunes filtering through the room. Among my many favourites was the iconic MGM movie musical Gigi.

The Story of a Young Courtesan in Turn-of-the-Century Paris

Adapted from a novella written in 1944 and a stage musical from 1951, Gigi was a 1958 film directed by the legendary Vincente Minnelli. It chronicles the story of Gigi, a young girl raised by two courtesans in turn-of-the-century Paris to take on the role of lover to a wealthy patron, Gaston. Their plans go awry when Gaston falls for the young Gigi and plans to marry her.

The film was a cinematic triumph, bagging nine academy awards along with the hearts and minds of a generation. Now it’ll have the chance to do the same with a new generation, as a fresh stage version of the musical has entered production, ready to open on Broadway in early 2015.

She Came When Vanessa Hudgens Least Expected It

Actress Vanessa Hudgens is slated to star in the title role. She’s no stranger to the genre, having rose to fame as part of the High School Musical franchise, and starred as Mimi in a production of RENT at the Hollywood Bowl.

She recently spoke about landing the role – her first on Broadway – to People Magazine. Hudgens suggested that "I've been waiting for the right role to come along, and she appeared to me when I was least expecting it," before adding that "it's been a lot of fun prepping for Gigi … allowing myself to be as free as possible. I love this character, the music and play so much." 

Bringing Gigi to a Whole New Audience

Hopefully, that love will translate into a stellar performance when a revamped Gigi makes its first appearance on the Great White Way next year. Such a performance would show a whole new generation of musical theatre lovers why so many people fell in love with the story of a young Parisian mistress way back in 1958.

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Ronan Keating Label’s Once Debut “Liberating.”

If you’re a follower of Once, Simon Morris readers, you’ll have wondered how Ronan Keating did in his first night in the role of Guy; something he labelled “liberating.”

The Story of a Down-On-His-Luck Dublin Busker

As an adult, I’ve developed a passion for carefully crafted, thought provoking musical theatre which tells a captivating story, and accompanies it with a mind blowing score. There are few musical theatre productions that have piqued the interest of an adult Simon Morris the way Once has.

For those of you who haven’t heard yet, the story of Once chronicles the life of a down-on-his-luck Dublin busker named Guy. A man in need of inspiration, when he meets a woman who sparks his creative juices he stumbles on inspiration in spades, only to find out that she’s married.

Could Ronan Keating Hack it in the Role of Guy?

A modern day smash, Once has proved a hit with audiences around the world. UK musical theatre enthusiasts have proved no exception, as the West-End’s Phoenix Theatre production of Once turned out to be a runaway success.

That’s why I was a little apprehensive when I learned that former Boyzone frontman Ronan Keating was taking over the role of Guy. I honestly doubted he had the vocal prowess and onstage charisma to pull it off.

“The Most Liberating Experience.”

Yet if Keating himself is to be believed, his first night in the role of Guy left him feeling like a new man. According to the BBC, Keating labelled his performance "the most liberating experience."

Speaking in the wake of his debut, Keating admitted that at first, his performance was "all over the place,” but by the time the curtain fell he was left “feeling great.” He also said that "the stress and fear when I walked out was overwhelming," but once he got into it, “it was wonderful."

“An Extremely Creditable Account of Himself.”

And it seems the critics think he gave a decent performance as well. The Independent’s David Lister labelled it “surprisingly good,” whilst Fiona Mountford at the Evening Standard said that Keating gave “an extremely creditable account of himself” in the role of Guy.

In other words, he did pretty well for himself considering the fact that he’s a new comer to the West End stage. Maybe his liberating experience powered his performance and made him shine in the role of a down-on-his-luck Dublin busker!

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What Did the Critics Think of Made in Dagenham?

Now the musical has officially debuted on the West End stage, this week on the Simon Morris blog I ask what the critics thought of Made in Dagenham.

The Real Story of the Ford Sewing Machinists’ Strike of 1968

I’ve been waiting with baited breath for the release of Made in Dagenham. As I pointed out in a recent blog post, I held high hopes for it. The story is compelling and the score looked promising. In other words, it looked like a West End smash just waiting in the wings.

The musical, an adaption of a 2010 film of the same name, chronicles the real story of the Ford sewing machinists’ strike of 1968, when workers protested in hopes of securing equal pay. It stars accomplished actress Gemma Arterton in the lead role of Rita O’Grady; an ordinary woman turned into a leader by extraordinary events.

A Deeply, Unapologetically, British Musical

Made in Dagenham debuted at the Adelphi Theatre in London’s West End on the 5^th November. The reviews are in, and as ever there seems to be somewhat of a mix.

There was plenty to like about the show. Paul Taylor at the Independent labelled it "a big-budget, even more crowd-pleasing, British musical," whilst the Evening Standard’s Henry Hitchings called it “a deeply, unapologetically British musical with a quirky, big-hearted charm." It was generally praised for its mischievous lyrics, amiable production, gag-infested book and feel-good vibe.

Sanitised in the West End

Yet these positives left some critics feeling as though the production lacked the substance that a musical about the struggle for women’s rights in the 60’s needs to make it resonate.

The Guardian’s Michael Billington suggested that despite the show boasting some positive elements, it "suffers from its caricatures, relentless jokiness and a functional score." In other words, he’s saying that it makes a good stab at representing feminism, but lacks passion and ultimately, substance. This is something echoed by the Morning Star, which said the show was “sanitised” in the West End.

A Thrilling Night’s Entertainment in the West End.

Ultimately, it seems as though the critics are saying that Made in Dagenham is hardly going to make Germaine Greer’s must see list anytime soon. Nevertheless, it’s a fun, big-budget affair that should provide a thrilling night’s entertainment in the West End.

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Five Best Musical Theatre Dance Numbers

I celebrate the sheer spectacle actors are capable of putting on in a production this week on the Simon Morris blog, by sharing what I believe are the five best musical theatre dance numbers of all time.

Dance, the Physical Expression of Emotion

For the true musical theatre enthusiast, there is no one element that defines the love they share for the medium. The successful show is able to combine consummate acting, thought provoking dialogue, rousing musical tunes and jaw-dropping dance numbers to create a masterpiece.

Dance – the physical expression of emotion – works in musical theatre, because it accentuates and underscores the songs leaving the characters lips, providing us with more clarity into who said characters really are. As such, the medium has become known for the plethora of inspiring dance numbers it has spawned over the years.

These Five Dance Heavy Numbers Stood Head and Shoulders Above the Rest

Some of these numbers stand head and shoulders above their competitors, as true examples of what a production can really do, when it takes full advantage of its ability to incorporate the art of dance. The following five mastered the craft…

1)      Cellblock Tango: The people who created Chicago picked the perfect name for this number. A tango is a daring dance which takes you to the edge, which is where these merry murderesses are, as they chronicle their stories of how they came to the cellblock. As such, the song’s infamous tango routines are not only spellbinding to watch, but fit seamlessly into the narrative.

2)      Buenos Aires:  When you’re a young girl moving to the Big City, you’re full of life and energy; something conveyed by the high-energy, frenetic dance routines of Evita’s ‘Buenos Aires.’ As Eva glides across the floor with a number of men, the dance underscores the words, to help the audience really understand just what this girl has planned for her time in the Big Apple.

3)      Electricity: A show that centred on one boy’s dream of becoming a professional dancer, it makes sense that a number from Billy Elliot would make this list. The number I have chosen is ‘Electricity,’ and I have chosen it, because that’s exactly what it is. When Billy lets go and shows us what he do, with a number of intricate, awe inspiring dance moves, it really is electric.

4)      Time Warp: The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a musical dedicated to exploring the weirder side of life, and nothing quite expresses this like the infamously wacky dance routine in the show’s signature hit, ‘Time Warp.’ Honestly, it’s infectious, and often has people standing up in their seats to match the actions of the actors on stage, as they bust out the ‘Time Warp!’

5)      One: This number typifies the genre. From the show A Chorus Line, a musical about the public and private lives of dancers, ‘One’ is the ultimate stage dance number. With a group of dancers, all identically dressed in gold costumes, performing the same steps in sync with pin point precision (including a never ending stream of hard-to-execute shoulder high chorus line kicks) ‘One’ is a masterpiece.

So Many to Choose From

The great thing about this is, that I honestly had to narrow down the list from a lot, to five. I had to neglect other dance numbers I love, such as ‘Anything Goes,’ ‘Hard Knock Life’ and ‘Santa Fe.’ There’s just so many to choose from, showing just what the musical theatre genre is capable of, when it chooses to incorporate the art of dance!

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A Bend it Like Beckham Musical is Happening!

Fans of the cult female football film will be amazed to hear on the Simon Morris blog this week, that a Bend it Like a Beckham musical is finally happening!

Bend it Like Beckham, a Cult Classic

As a young Simon Morris, musical theatre wasn’t my only interest. I was also a big film buff, and no film charmed me quite like Bend it Like Beckham; no wonder it’s a cult classic.

For those who haven’t seen it, here’s the run down. It’s about a girl living in a traditional Sikh family who yearns to play football professionally, like her idol, David Beckham. After she joins an amateur women’s team, she battles to make her dream a reality, whilst simultaneously falling in love.

What Do We Know About the Bend it Like Beckham Musical?

Yes, it may be cheesy, but it’s addictive, which is why I’m not really that surprised to hear that Bend it Like Beckham will be adapted to the West End stage. Even better, it’ll be written and directed by the same woman made the original 2002 film; Gurinder Chadha.

That’s one of the few things we know about the project at the moment; details are somewhat thin on the ground. We do also know, however, that with previews starting on 15^th May 2015, it will open properly on the 24^th June 2015 at the Phoenix Theatre.

A Totally New Kind of Musical

Chadha took the time to comment on the project. She said that "developing Bend It Like Beckham for the stage has been the most enjoyable creative process of my career so far."

She went on to say that "it was always my intention to build on the film and to present its themes and storylines to live audiences in an exciting new dynamic way. I believe we are presenting a totally new kind of musical - part West End, part London Punjabi, but whole-heartedly British."

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

So we may not know much, but what we’ve heard from Chadha makes me really excited for a Bend it Like Beckham musical in the West End. It’s sure to be a one-in-a-lifetime experience!

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Is Frozen Coming to Broadway?

This week on the Simon Morrisblog, I discuss the question on every movie musical enthusiasts lips right now; is Frozen coming to Broadway?

Frozen, Disney’s Biggest Smash Hit in Years

For any of you who haven’t seen Frozen, where have you been? It’s only the biggest movie musical animation smash since The Lion King. It’s grossed millions at box offices around the world, and inspired a cult following usually only gathered by the Star Wars and Harry Potter franchises.

Frozen is a Disney animated movie musical that reimagines the story of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, The Snow Queen. With names such as Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel and Jonathan Groff lending their voices to the film, as well as one of the most infectious musical numbers in recent years (‘Let it Go’), it was always destined to become a colossal hit.

Disney’s Stellar Track Record on the Broadway Stage

So of course, ever since it was released, fans have been wondering when it would come to Broadway. This is a prudent question, considering the fact that Disney have transformed a number of their most famous movie musicals into bona fide stage hits.

Movies including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King have all been reinterpreted for the Broadway stage. The Lion King in particular has become a fan favourite, burrowing its way into the hearts and minds of theatre goers around the world.

Disney Director Speaks Out on Frozen Stage Adaptation

Now it looks like Frozen is set to do the same. In a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Thomas Schumacher, Disney Theatrical executive, announced he is currently putting the wheels in motion to make sure a stage adaptation of Frozen happens.

Schumacher confided that “I’m already talking to directors, and I have a design concept, and we have to begin to fashion this idea,” before emphasising, “it doesn’t need to be fast. It needs to be great.” He went on to say that “there’s something purely theatrical about the relationship between these two women [Elsa and Anna],” adding “you can see it.”

Counting Down the Days

You certainly can, and I have no doubt that he’ll put on a stage version of Frozen that will do its silver screen predecessor proud. So yes, a Broadway version of Frozen looks like it’s really going to happen. Now, I’m counting down the days until it hits the boards!

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Lindsay Lohan in The West End

After Lindsay Lohan’s debut in the West End, I thought I’d take the time to look at how she did this week on the Simon Morris blog.

Even Simon Morris Occasionally Watches a Straight Play!

Whilst I usually prefer to head down on a sojourn to the West End for a day chock full of musical theatre, I sometimes wander off the beaten track and take in a straight play or two. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen The Mousetrap!

So of course, it was only a matter of time until I heard about the latest news rocking the UK’s theatre district. Lindsay Lohan is in Speed the Plow. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to see it for myself. That may have been a good thing, as the critics weren’t exactly bowled over.

What is Speed the Plough?

For any of you who don’t know, Speed the Plow is a play by David Marmet, which expertly dissects the American movie industry. It tells the story of what happens when a hugely bankable star agrees to feature in a sure fire hit; a dream come true for its producers, until their plans are derailed by temp secretary Karen.

It first debuted on Broadway in 1988, with the Queen of Pop herself, Madonna, in the pivotal role of Karen. It is the role of Karen that Lohan is currently playing, in the current incarnation of Speed the Plough, which is being put on at the Playhouse Theatre in the West End.

What are the Critics Saying?

Marmet himself has said that he is proud of the effort Lohan is putting into the role, but what are the critics saying? Well let’s just say they’re not exactly universally praising her acting ability.

The Daily Mail’s Georgina Brown, for example has said that “it was more of an unfortunate prang than a total write-off.” Meanwhile according to the BBC, critic Mark Shenton has pointed out that at one point she forgot her lines, whilst theatre critic Quentin Letts commented that “Lindsay Lohan's acting is like that of a not specially gifted schoolgirl.”

Yet the same BBC article suggested that Lohan’s performance wasn’t a total car crash, as many had predicted. Fay Strang at the Daily Mirror suggested that Lohan "pulled it back after the incident with her lines, "showing she's a true professional."

It Really Could Have Been Worse

So from what the critics are saying, it doesn’t look like Lohan is winning an Oliver Award any time soon. However, I generally get the feeling that it really could have been worse. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, I’d suggest you check out the show now, while you can.

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TONY Award Winning Musical to Close on Broadway

This week I want to take the time here on the Simon Morris blog to persuade you to see TONY award winning musical Once while you can, as it is due to close on Broadway.

The Story of a Dublin Street Busker Down on His Luck

Once is a stage adaptation of the movie musical of the same name, which was critically acclaimed and even won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2007.

Once tells the story of a Dublin street busker who’s down on his luck, and about to give up his dream. That is until he meets a beautiful young woman, who is suddenly enchanted by his haunting love songs. Yet as they fall in love, his music soars to new heights until he discovers she has a husband.

“An Unforgettable Story about Going for Your Dreams.”

Billed as “an unforgettable story about going for your dreams and the power of music to connect us all,” in the press notes, Once opened to great critical acclaim on Broadway in 2012.

That acclaim carried it to victory at the 2012 TONYs, becoming the most awarded show of the New York theatre season, and even clinching the coveted Best Musical award. Furthermore, it secured the 2013 Grammy Award for Best Theatre album, and has gone on to spawn productions around the world, including in the West End.

Once to Close on Broadway in 2015

Which is why many musical theatre fans (including Once fan Simon Morris), were disappointed to learn that Once is closing on Broadway. According to Playbill, producers announced last week (Wednesday 7^th October) that Once will play its last show on 4^thJanuary 2015.

By the time the theatre doors well and truly close on Once, it will have played a staggering 1,167 regular performances on Broadway, as well as 22 preview performances. Despite the show closing on Broadway, however, it will still be playing at the Phoenix Theatre in the West End.

See Once While You Can

So considering how critically applauded the musical is, I think I have stated my case for why you should take the chance to see it on Broadway if you can before it closes. If not, then I’d highly suggest you go to see it in the West End.

Simon Morris

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Nicole Scherzinger to Take Role of Grizabella in Cats!

With the recent announcement that Nicole Scherzinger will take on the role of Grizabella in Cats, I want to explain here on the Simon Morris blog why I think its inspired casting.

Nicole Scherzinger to Make West End Debut

According to the Independent, the former Pussycat doll has agreed to take a sojourn to the West End. She will be playing the role of Grizabella in Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Cats for a limited run at the end of 2014.

Of what will be her West End debut, Scherzinger said that “to have the opportunity to work with Andrew, Trevor and Gillian is a dream come true. I grew up listening to Andrew’s extraordinary music and was lucky enough, a couple of years ago, to record Cats’ beautiful song ‘Memory’.”

Does a Popstar Have Any Business on the West End Stage?

So is she right for the role? Let’s start with the elephant in the room. The uninitiated are probably thinking right now, ‘she’s a popstar, she has no business on a West End stage.’

Yet you read it for yourself, she’s already recorded the character’s (and the show’s) signature song. In fact, she has a musical theatre background, majoring in acting and musical theatre at Wright State University.

More to the point, she’s had experience, as she’s not only played the part of Velma in a production of Chicago, but she rose to the occasion when she took on the role of Maureen in a special production of RENT at the Hollywood Bowl in LA. Critically lauded, the latter was a resounding success.

Could Nicole Scherzinger Play Grizabella?

OK, so we know Scherzinger can hack it on a musical theatre stage, but is she specifically right for the part of Grizabella. I think she is, and it’s all to do with who Grizabella is as a character.

Despite her outward appearance as a past-her-prime glamour cat, complete with ragged worn out overcoat, black sequin dress and gold kitten heels, Grizabella is an outsider, just looking to be accepted and adored as she once was. Scherzinger’s own struggles, coupled with her penchant for glamour, mean she can identify with the character.

You Need to Find Something in the Character you can Identify With.

Ultimately, any successful actor will tell you that in order to pull off a part, you need to be able to find something in them that you can identify with. That’s why I think Scherzinger can pull off the role of Grizabella.

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Five Underappreciated Musical Theatre Show Tunes

This week, I want to salute real musical theatre enthusiasts here on the Simon Morris blog, by listing what I believe are five underappreciated musical theatre show tunes.

We All Have a Show Tune That Made Us Fall in Love with Musical Theatre

Perhaps the reason I first fell in love with musical theatre, back when a mini Simon Morris was first watching actors tread the boards, is because I fell in love with a particular show tune, ‘Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.’

I’d say it’s the same for many people. For all of us, there’s a show tune that defines us, and more, a show tune that defines a show – ‘Defying Gravity’ in Wicked, ‘Memory’ in Cats etc. That’s great and all, but it means that similar, just as good show tunes often get left in the dust in the minds of musical theatre enthusiasts, in their hurry to re-listen to their favourites.

Take a Listen to the Following Five Show Tunes

Which is why this week, I wanted to educate and inspire in equal measure, by directing your attention to five underappreciated show tunes that you’d really love, if only you took the time to listen.

1)      No Good Deed: It may not be as famous as it’s more well-known cousins, such as ‘Defying Gravity’ or ‘Popular,’ but ‘No Good Deed’ is a song that is easily one of Wicked’s best. Elphaba’s absolute disillusionment that litters the track is haunting, yet compelling for any viewer.

2)      Finale B: I don’t why this show closer was given such a non-descript name, because it’s a real experience to listen to. It expertly combines several lyrical refrains that have run throughout the  show to bring RENT to a resounding, yet effortlessly hopeful conclusion that’ll have you in tears every time.

3)      The Temple: In the adoration that usually gets poured liberally on solo pieces, ensembles often get left out of the mix, which is completely the case with ‘The Temple,’ from Jesus Christ Superstar. The sharp contrast between the protagonist’s anger at the largesse on display in the Temple and his utter despair as he is crowded with lepers he is unable to help once he escapes into the desert, will take your breath away.

4)      Waltz for Eva and Che: When you think of Evita, there are certain mind blowing tracks that come to mind – ‘Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,’ Another Suitcase in Another Hall,’ Buenos Aires,’ etc. Yet one that never does, but should, is the fantastic ‘Waltz for Eva and Che.’ Coming close to the point where Eva dies, it’s a sizzling affair, which expertly examines whether Mrs Peron really was a saint or a sinner; not that it ever manages to answer the question!

5)   Whispering: Spring Awakening really is the modern – yet old fashioned – exploration of sexual awareness, with high octane numbers, but I would suggest one of its stand outs is the more sedate ‘Whispering,’ sung by the female protagonist, Wendla. Quite simply put, its heart breaking.

Which Songs Do You Believe are the Underrated Gems of the Broadway Cannon?

And there are the five underappreciated show tunes you should be listening to the minute you finish this article. Do you agree Simon Morris readers? If not, then which songs do you believe are the real underrated gems of the Broadway cannon?

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Emma Thompson Talks about Recent Musical Comeback

Emma Thompson recently delighted musical fans by talking about her return to the genre. This week on the Simon Morris blog I ask; what did she say?

Emma Thompson, the Legend That Is

There are few actresses as prolific, as talented and as respected as Emma Thompson. She’s stared in some of Hollywood’s biggest productions, including Love Actually, the Harry Potter series, Sense and Sensibility, and Nanny McPhee. This work has led her to numerous award nominations and wins, including an OSCAR.

However, what is perhaps less known about Thompson, is that she’s done a lot of stage work as well. In actual fact, she’s a pretty talented stage actress, having starred in productions such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, King Lear, Not the Nine O’clock News and Me and My Girl.

Emma Thompson Stars in Sweeney Todd

Yet she hasn’t done any stage work in years, and certainly no musicals. However, that changed this year, when she took on the iconic role of Mrs Lovett at Lincoln Centre on Broadway earlier this year in classic musical Sweeney Todd.

She’s now spoken out on the experience. According to the BBC, she called it "beautiful, inspiring," elaborating that "it was magical to be in front of an audience again," and that "it made me weep."

Thompson Set to Reprise the Role in London in March 2015

She then turned her attention to the London production. On the back of glowing reviews of the OSCAR winner’s performance, Thompson has been invited back to reprise the role in London in March. Something the actress said was "like a dream coming true."

She went on to talk about how she wants to tackle  the role this time around, suggesting that there would be "a slight improvement" in March, and that "and by that I mean no nausea," further suggesting that "If I can manage the fear without the nausea I'll be fine."

I’ll Let You Know How She Does

Personally, I don’t think Emma Thompson will have a problem when she comes to reprise the role she played so well on Broadway, in the West End. Either way, I’ll let you know here on the Simon Morris blog how she does, since obviously, I’m definitely planning on going to see it!

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Actress Withdraws From Iconic Musical Wicked

After hearing that Nikki Davis-Jones has withdrawn from Wicked, I ask this week on the Simon Morris blog; what next for the West End hit?

Nikki Davis Jones Sparkled on Stage as Elphaba in Wicked

Whilst I adore the Broadway version of the production, in my personal opinion, nothing can compare to the West End’s take on modern musical blockbuster. Opened by original Elphaba, Idina Menzel herself, it has since gone on to enchant audiences around the world, including one musical theatre blogger by the name of Simon Morris.

Which is why I cheered when I heard that Nikki Davis-Jones was set to take up the role of Elphaba, both on the UK tour version of Wicked, and on the West End stage. With past credits including the role of The Girl in Blues in the Night at the Hackney Empire, and RENT’s Maureen at the 20^th Anniversary Concert tour, the actress was a great edition who has shined since she first joined the UK tour of Wicked.

Davis-Jones Announces Her Departure from Wicked

She was due to jump ship from the tour to the West End version of Wicked on the 27^th October. Yet now, it appears that not only will Davis-Jones not do so, but that she has left the tour production as well.

According to The Stage, the actress has left both. Michael McCabe, executive producer of the show, commented on the news, saying that he was “extremely sorry” that the actress has withdrawn from the show. He added that “we all fully support Nikki’s position and very much look forward to working with her again in the future.”

When One Elphaba Leaves, Another Arrives

Whatever the reason for the withdrawal, it is a move that could potentially damage the West End version of Wicked. The fact that they are losing the actress set to take over their main role is naturally one that will rock the show as it scrambles to recover.

Yet it seems the show has handled the move quite well. Jemma Alexander has stepped into the role on tour, with acclaimed West End Elphaba Ashleigh Gray set to take over when the show comes to the Liverpool Empire on the 16th September.  Her experience in the role will ensure the show quickly gets back on its feet, and it’s only a matter of time until the West End version of Wicked finds a stunning replacement for Davis-Jones as well.

A Show is More Than the Sum of its Parts

What this goes to show, Simon Morris readers, is that a show is more than the sum of its parts. Yes, it’s a loss to see a leading lady depart. However, for a role as powerful as Elphaba, there is always an actress who is just as talented, ready to step into her shoes, and take the audience on a journey they will never forget. 

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Five Celebrity Movie Musicals I Want to See

This week I rhapsodize here on the Simon Morris blog, letting you know the five celebrity stories I believe need to be brought to the movie musical medium.

Celebs Are So Much More Interesting Than Real People!

As a fan of the movie musical, I can tell you that some of the best, most compelling productions tell the story of a particular person. A famous person obviously, since they lead way more interesting, yet tragic lives than the rest of us.

All you have to do is look at productions such as Evita and Funny Girl to understand this. These musicals were so successful because they were based on stories that were true. We really didn’t know if the real Eva Peron was a saint or a sinner, and yes, the real Fanny Brice’s love life was just that tragic.

These Five Celebrities Have Stories That Would Look Amazing Set to Music

I’m of the opinion that every celebrity has a story that would make for compelling viewing as a movie musical, and in my opinion, these following five celebs have stories destined for the musical silver screen…

1)      Kim Kardashian: I know this is going to be a controversial choice with many of you Simon Morris readers out there, but whether we like it or not, a lot of people find Kim interesting. It’d be like the Heat Magazine of musicals - we really know we shouldn’t see it, but the idea of seeing the infamous sex tape scandal set to music would be too juicy to resist.

2)      Madonna: For someone who’s shown us so much skin, how much do we actually know about who Madonna really is, what motivates and drives her? The famously driven pop icon is a jukebox musical makers wet dream, as not only does she have an epic back catalogue of versatile tunes, but a classic rags to riches story Madonna fans around the world never fail to find compelling.

3)      Barack Obama: If Evita taught us anything, it’s that not only is politics far from boring, it’s great fodder for a musical tune or two,  and there’s no more famous politician in the world today than US President Barack Obama. Personally, I would salivate at the chance to hear his rousing campaign speeches – which lighted fire under a generation – be reimagined as a musical number!

4)      John Lennon: John Lennon never gets less fascinating does he? Arguably, the most famous Beatle, Lennon’s penchant for controversy, troubled life and tragic assassination, would simply shine on the silver screen when accompanied by a rousing musical score. Or, we could just turn it into a jukebox musical!

5)      Judy Garland: As the ultimate movie musical actress with a famously tragic addiction and end, Judy Garland’s life would make the ultimate movie musical. Just think, her real life transition from beleaguered child star to troubled adult actress has compelled so many over the years that it’s just plain obvious.

Do You Agree?

Do you agree with my choices Simon Morris readers? Do you think these celebs have life stories that would make compelling movie musical productions? Or do you think I’m way off base. If you do, then just which celebrity’s story would you like to see made into a movie musical?

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Could Reform to Child Labour Laws Benefit West End Musicals

This week on the Simon Morris blog, I ask whether proposed reforms to child labour laws could benefit West End musicals.

Child Stars are Pivotal to West End Theatre

Many of our favourite West End musicals either have a significant child character or a child character as the star. Look at Billy Elliot or Matilda, for example. Without their child stars, these shows would fall part quicker than a Soufflé that’s failed to rise.

Yet, shows prominently featuring child stars often opt to open on Broadway rather than the West End, meaning New York’s musical theatre scenes sees the benefits these productions bring, rather than London’s.

Andrew Lloyd Weber Explains Why He Might Open His Next Production in New York

Notably, Andrew Lloyd-Weber commented on this recently, as he revealed that he is likely to debut his next production across the pond due to restrictive child labour laws. Lloyd Weber commented that "it's much easier to cast children in New York than it is here."

He elaborated by saying that "you don't have to do all this triple casting, you can cast them as if they're adults and then you can have them for a six–month or a year contract if you want to, without these endless changes. And with a show that is so dependent on the children really being able to play, I think that's important."

What Are the Proposed Reforms to Child Labour Laws?

Yet recent proposed reforms to child labour laws could draw musical theatre producers such as Lloyd-Weber back to London. I came across an article on this subject in the Telegraph recently, which went on to make a compelling case for why moves to reform child labours laws could benefit the West End.

The article went on to point out that the reforms would give child actors shorter breaks, and allow them to work longer hours. Specifically, these plans would allow children under five to do live television and radio broadcasts until 10pm, whilst they would allow children over five to do so up until 11pm. This would cut down the red tape productions face when staging a musical on the West End, making it easier, and more cost effective, for them to do so.

What Do You Think, Simon Morris Readers?

Therefore, the argument goes that reforming child labour laws would draw new productions to London, rather than New York. Yet the move certainly has its detractors. What do you think, Simon Morris readers? Would reforms to child labour laws benefit the West End and even if they would, would they be the best thing for the West End going forward?

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Will Education Get You a West End Role?

This week on the Simon Morris blog, I ask; will an education in musical theatre actually get you that role on a West End stage you’ve been dreaming about since you were a kid.

It’s Extremely Hard to Get a Role in the West End

You don’t have to be a musical theatre expert, Simon Morris readers, to know that it is monumentally hard to break into the West End.

It’s a simple matter of mathematics. There are only a handful of roles for a large number of applicants. That is why most people assume that a first class education in musical theatre will give you the edge to outshine your competition and get the role of your dreams.

Only 2.6% of Musical Theatre Graduates Work in West End in First Five Years

But is this the case? This week I came across a fascinating article on The Stage that revealed that only 2.6% of jobs taken by top musical theatre graduates in their first five years actually see them land on a West End Stage.

According to the online publication, this finding came from research commissioned by Drama UK and carried out by Jane Dietch, a casting director.  It went on to show that out of the almost 500 performing arts jobs that were taken by musical theatre graduates who had been studying a three year course in 2013, a mere 13 were for roles in the West End.

Where are Musical Theatre Graduates Getting Jobs?

The figures went on to show that 13 jobs were provided to graduates from the larger theatre companies. These include the National Theatre, the National Theatre of Scotland and the Donmar Warehouse.

Meanwhile 3.4% of jobs (17) were given to graduates by regional theatres, whilst 4.6% (23), were provided by commercial tours. Yet the largest proportion of jobs given to graduates (26%) were for roles in cabaret, pantomime, events, cruises concerts etc. whilst the second largest proportion (20%)  were provided by Off-West End and fringe work.

You Have to Work Your Way Up

So will an education get you a West End role; eventually. However what these figures show, Simon Morris readers, is that you have to work your way up. If you want to be successful in any industry, you have to pay your dues and gain experience before graduating to the big leagues.

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Mobile Phones to Be Banned in Theatres?

A director has said that mobile phones could be banned in the West End to stop patrons from filming. On the Simon Morris blog this week, I ask, could this really happen?

Simon Morris Wishes He Could Throw Mobile Phones into the Thames!

We all know it’s really annoying when you’re watching a musical you’ve spent money to see, and have waited for, for ages, when someone breaks out their phone. Whether they’re answering a text, calling a friend or filming a production with plans to post it later on YouTube, it makes you want to grab the phone and throw it into the Thames.

Whilst I have blogged about how to be an audience member when watching a musical theatre production, and I did talk about mobile phones, I do recognise that we need to have them on us when we’re in a theatre. That’s why I’ve always been dubious when West End personnel have talked about banning mobile phones in theatres (and they talk about it a lot). It just seems so impractical.

He Was Only Texting His Son, Who Was Ill.

And someone else has been at it recently; this time acclaimed West End director Anthony Biggs. According to the Daily Mail (who absolutely love this kind of thing) Biggs made the suggestion due to audience members constant need to film productions.

The publication has revealed that recently, actor David Judge interrupted a performance Athol Fugard’s Statements. Why? He and Jasmine Hyde, a fellow cast member, saw a man in the front row using his phone continuously. They thought he was filming them. Turns out, he was just texting his son, who was ill.

Phones Can “Ruin the Experience” But the Audience Does Tend to Rely on Them

This lead Biggs; artistic director at Jermyn Street Theatre, where the production was based, to make the suggestion that phones should be banned in the West End. He said that phones can “ruin the experience,” for the audience, and that because of this, new measures may need to be put in place to curb mobile phone use in shows.

I get what Biggs is saying. I also think it’s highly impractical. In this day and age, people use their phones all the time, that’s just a fact. Stop them, and watch, as ticket sales plummet faster than the economy did back in 2008.

Simon Morris Suggests that Actors Just suck it up!

Simon Morris readers, I really do understand how annoying mobile phones are when you’ve invested you heard earned time and money into watching a musical in the West End. However, in modern life, you just have to suck it up and deal with it. These are some of our country’s best actors. If they can’t put up with a few mobile phones, maybe they aren’t really up to the job!

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My Top Four Movie Musical Actors of All Time

This week I want to celebrate the leading men, who have made the movie musical what it is. Here on the SimonMorris blog are my top four leading movie musical men ever!

Behind Every Great Diva is A Leading Man

We tend to focus on the women who have made the movie musical what it is. Maybe, that is because the ‘stereotypical’ movie musical audience have always admires strong divas. That’s why when we think of the genre, our minds immediately go to sirens of song such as Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand and Liza Minnelli.

But we really shouldn’t discount the men. Have you ever heard that saying, behind every great men is a great woman? Well, in this artistic field, the opposite is true. Behind every dazzlingly delightful diva is a leading man of epic proportions.

These Four Leading Men Simply Shined on Screen

Of course, not every actor was able to hold their own against the star power of icons such as Garland and Streisand. However, some matched them note for note, step for step. These four simply shined on screen:

1)      Fred Astaire: No one did it quite like Fred Astaire. Arguably one of the very first actors to make it big in movie musicals, he was a demon on the dance floor. Along with Ginger Rogers, he formed one part of tinsel town’s most memorable dancing duos, and helped make dance an integral part of the movie musical in productions such as Top Hat, Follow the Fleet and Swing Time. Every actor who came after owes Astaire a huge debt of gratitude.

2)      Gene Kelly: If Astaire was one of the first memorable movie musical lead actors, then successor Gene Kelly was arguably one of the most iconic of all time. His roles in mega movie musicals An American in Paris and Singin’ in the Rain were so monumental, they still stand as the ones to beat to this very day.

3)      Mickey Rooney: The last of the Hollywood movie musical leading men, Rooney sadly passed away this year. But what a life he had. A veritable silver screen icon, he shone in a number of movie musical roles, including Babe in Arms with Miss Garland herself!

4)      Hugh Jackman: Frankly, since the golden age of Hollywood, the movie musical has gone downhill. When it did wow audiences all over again, we tended to focus on the performances of the leading ladies. However, that changed with the film version of Les Miserables, with Hugh Jackman in the leading role. A musical theatre veteran, you could tell he’d been cast perfectly, and could very well revive the classic movie musical leading man role that typified Hollywood in its heyday. 

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My Top Five Favourite Movie Musical Actresses

The actress often makes the movie musical, and on the Simon Morris blog this week, I’ve listed who I believe are the top five movie musical actresses ever!

A Combination of Theatre and Silver Screen

There are many elements to the movie musical – score, costumes, script etc., but without the star power of a truly world class leading lady – who can bring the main female role to life – it’s bound to fail!

But it takes a lot to be the leading lady of a movie musical. You’re not dealing with a live audience – therefore, you not only have to have the skills required for the stage, but those required for a star of the silver screen – to bring a truly iconic leading lady to life.

Simon Morris’ Fabulous Five Leading Ladies

It’s rare that an actress- no matter how talented – can make the transition one way or the other, but in my opinion, Simon Morris readers , these top five movie musical leading ladies were more than capable of tackling the task at hand:

1)      Judy Garland: Judy Garland is the quintessential movie musical leading lady. From Wizard of Oz to Summer Stock to A Star is Born, Garland typified the versatility required of a leading lady to take on the movie musical genre. Every actress sees Judy as the one to beat.

2)      Barbara Streisand: And she has a fierce contender in arguably the most famous musical theatre actress of all time, Barbara Streisand. Bab’s has taken leading lady roles in a number of movie musicals including Funny Girl, Yentl, and a remake of Garland’s own A Star is Born. Her killer vocals, effortless charm and sheer likeability, make her the perfect movie musical leading lady.

3)      Julie Andrews: Is there anything this woman can’t do. Easily one of the most successful actresses to ever come out of the UK, Andrews is possibly most remembered for her iconic turns in movie musicals The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins. The enduring popularity of both productions, shows just how suited Andrews was, and always will be, to the role of movie musical star.

4)      Liza Minnelli: In every way, she really is her mother’s daughter. Minnelli proved that she is every bit the movie musical leading lady her mother was in 1972’s smash hit Cabaret.  Her haunting vocals, infectious presence and intriguing performance make her a star among movie musical leading ladies.

Angela Lansbury: Few have had a career as distinguished as Angela Lansbury, and she’s certainly proved that she’s capable of the title ‘movie musical leading lady’ in her time. She famously starred alongside Garland in 1946 western movie musical The Harvey Girls, and has since taken heralded roles in a number of others, including Bed knobs and Broomsticks, Blue Hawaii and Sweeney Todd.

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Simon Morris on Everything You Need to Know About this Year’s TONY Awards

The TONY Awards have once again come and gone, and if you missed out on the best night in musical theatre, you’re in luck, as this week Simon Morris is here to give you the low down.

The 68^th Annual TONY Awards

The TONY Awards are to the musical theatre world what the Grammy’s are to music and the OSCARS are to film; the one night of the year where players in this world get the recognition they deserve for their stellar work over the past 12 months.

This year’s TONY Awards (68^th) once again took place at the Radio City Music Hall, one of the most renowned and prestigious venues in the  whole of New York City. That alone should let you know what kind of night it was; a truly spectacular one filled with epic wins, disappointing losses and grand performances that had the hair standing up on the back of just about everybody’s next.

A Night of Many Performances

So what happened; let’s start with the performances. Every year stars from some of Broadways must successful productions take to the stage to belt out their signature number, and this year’s awards saw the tradition continue. Tracks were performed from the productions of Les Miserables, After Midnight, Aladdin and If/Then, among others.

Neil Patrick Harris Sizzled on Stage

There were two that I believed stood out. The first was the performance of ‘Sugar Daddy’ from the revival of 90’s classic Hedwig and the Angry Inch. This musical has seen resounding success this year, and went on to win the TONY for the best revival of a musical later in the night. Neil Patrick Harris sizzled and delighted in equal measure in the role of an East German transgender rocker.

As Good as it Was Ten Years Ago

The other performance that stood out to me was the performance of ‘For Good’ from one of my personal favourites, Wicked. Performed in honour of the game-changing musical’s tenth anniversary, it struck a chord with perennial Wicked lovers such as myself, for managing to achieve the same sense of heart-warming melancholy it did ten years ago. There is no greater compliment than that.

Best Actor/Actress

Now onto the winners in the three main categories (who really cares about stuff like best lighting anyway.) Best actor in a musical went to Neil Patrick Harris; as I’ve already mentioned, he was phenomenal and it was totally deserved. Best actress in a musical to Audra McDonald for the role of Billie Holiday in a production about the life and times of the icon; Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill. It was a no brainer, she shone in the role.

Drum Roll Please… And the Award for Best Musical Goes To?

Now the big one, best musical. In the end, despite stiff competition, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder walked away with the night’s most prestigious award. I’m not going to give the plot away, all I’ll say is; I’m really not surprised.

There you have it Simon Morris readers; this year’s TONY’s were yet another night of amazing performances, spectacular wins and devastating loses; I so can’t wait for next year!

By Simon Morris

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Why Are We All Reading the Book of Mormon?

Broadway musical The Book of Mormon is a runaway success, and this week I wanted to get to the bottom of its momentous popularity, and ask, just why are we all reading the Book of Mormon?

Tomorrow is a Latter Day

It tells the story two young Mormon missionaries who are sent to a remote village in Northern Uganda to spread the good word. When they get there however, they find the locals less than receptive, as they have far too many problems of their own to deal with and subsequently, the young men see their own worldview challenged.

With a stunning soundtrack boasting soon to be classic show tunes such as ‘Orlando,’ ‘You and Me (But Mostly Me),’ and ‘Tomorrow is a Latter Day,’ a riveting plotline and dollops of side-splitting humour, it went on to become a critical and commercial success, even bagging the TONY Award for Best Musical.

The Controversy of the Portrayal of Religion

So why are so many people into it? On the face of it, it shouldn’t work. Religion is always a tricky topic to tackle, and most musicals that do attempt to climb this hill, like Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat play it safe. They stick to biblical truth.

Quite simply they do this because of the sheer righteous indignation that rains down on an artist when they dare to challenge the established cannon is terrifying. All you have to do is look at the fierce outrage the film The Last Temptation of Christ provoked back in the day, to realise why most creatives shy away from this kind of thing.

Simon Morris on a Changing Religious Landscape

However we aren’t back in the day, we’re in the modern era and we’re living in a time where experts have found a noted trend in the western world; people are turning away from religion. Innovations such as the internet are fostering a tendency to question religion more than ever before.

And The Book of Mormon ultimately seeks to answer some of those questions. It’s a fascinating exploration of the indoctrination of religion, and what happens to the indoctrinated when they’re released out into the real world.

The Book of Mormon works because it taps into the current zeitgeist. Whilst it’s phenomenal all on its own, people are into it because it asks the questions they want answered, and tackles the issues they care about. This is the hallmark of many a timeless musical.

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