Friday, February 16, 2018

THE FRIDAY 5: 2018 Female Performances

It's Friday, and it's time for the 5 things I'm thinking about going into the weekend!

I'm seeing 11 shows between now and the first week of May (Chess on Sunday)! Over the last couple of weeks, I've talked about the theatrical elements and male performances I'm looking forward to the coming months.  This week, it is the ladies' turn.  I know I seem to say this every week, but it is always true: I had a hard time narrowing it down to just five (plus an honorable mention!).


THE FRIDAY 5: 
THE TOP FEMALE PERFORMANCES
JEFF IS LOOKING FORWARD TO 


5. LAUREN AMBROSE - MY FAIR LADY

I've been a fan of hers since the very first scene she was in on Six Feet Under, but the thought of Lauren Ambrose as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady has me excited (and scared).  I had no idea she could sing (YouTube videos reveal that she really can!). I can't wait to see what she brings to this classic. Will she be conventional or do a modern take on the role? Will she erase the memory of the famous Elizas before her or will she join their ranks?  No matter what, hers will be an interesting, thoughtful and probably intense performance. Just the thing I love!


4. HAILEY KILGORE - 
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND

Judging by the critical and fan reaction to Once On This Island's Haley Kilgore, hers is a Broadway debut that people will be talking about for seasons to come.  What kind of musical theatre fan would I be if I wasn't there to witness this diva in the making first hand? It's exciting stuff, indeed!


3. KATRINA LENK - THE BAND'S VISIT

Speaking of star turns, Katrina Lenk has gotten the same critical and public acclaim now for two years in a row! Last season, it was her stunning performance in Indecent; this season it's her portrayal of Dina in The Band's Visit that not only has set the bar for Best Actress in a Musical for 2018, but it seems this turn has achieved "one for the ages" status.  I can't wait to hear her sing "Omar Sharif" live and in person!


2. JENN COLELLA - COME FROM AWAY


It is no secret to anyone who follows this blog that Jenn Colella is one of my favorite performers of all time. She's always the one my eye goes to in every show I've seen her in. Her wide ranging talents, unique presence and remarkable charisma are inspiring to watch. And the chance to see her take on multiple roles in Come From Away is icing on the cake.  Looking forward to my visit to The Rock!



1. LAURIE METCALF - THREE TALL WOMEN


Will she be able to top her masterful Tony-winning performance in A Doll's House, Part II? I don't know for sure, but I can't wait to find out when Laurie Metcalf takes the stage again in Three Tall Women. Truly one of the greatest American actresses working today, I look forward to the privilege of seeing her first-hand once again. 



HONORABLE MENTION: CAROLEE CARMELLO - 
SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET


I've seen many a Mrs. Lovett over the years - Sweeney Todd is one of my five favorite shows off all time - but I am really excited to see Carolee Carmello's take on the role.  Always an interesting performer, she seems ideally suited to the part.  Imagine my relief when I found out I wouldn't be missing her, no, I'm going to see one of her final performances instead!

How does my list compare to yours? Let me know! (Twitter: @jkstheatrescene Email: jkstheatrescene@yahoo.com)

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