Loved it; loved her; the audience loved it and loved her too. Bette is a gem and it was a delight to see her enjoying herself and strutting her best stuff in the stage. The dancing waiters were fantastic, reminded me of the exuberant and beautifully choreographed dancing policeman in Pirates of Penzeance. It is not a new or inventive story. It is an old story story with some poignant moments and lot of laughs. The music carried me away in the midst of such uncertainty in the world, this was just what I needed. Bless you Bette.
3
Well, I saw the show today, and I must respectfully disagree with the folks who were disparaging Ms. Midler recently. She was on fire!! Her voice was beautiful, and her comic timing was so magnificent that there was actually one brief moment where Mr. Pierce was struggling to stay in character. She is generous to her audience, and I also appreciated that she made sure that an understudy performing today got to take her own bow. It was a masterful show.
I usually agree with Ben Brantley's reviews, but I saw the show Tuesday night and Bette Midler is just plain tired. She kind of squeaks through the whole performance and it was uninspiring, to say the least. Kudos to her for doing this at her age, but perhaps she should have opted for a shorter run.
And - note to the Shubert Organization - do some renovations to this theater! The bathrooms, like the sets of Hello Dolly, are from the last century. They stink too.
saw it today, nov. 25 matinee. deeply moving. the sequence, "Before the Parade Passes By," and then the title song, as Dolly returns to her prior haunts, and her prior life, left half the audience in tears. You can't separate this particular production from Bette Midler. The courage to take on this role, the exuberance with which she inhabits it, the determination to be thought a "credit" in the marital match -- it was transporting, despite all the irony that a wary theatre-goer might bring this this play.
1
Everyone is going to hate me but I don't care. I just saw this Friday night and thought it was awful. I've loved Bette for years but her voice is significantly past its prime. And her exaggerated hamming just felt so contrived (eating scene included, Ben). The set design was fine, but utterly unimaginative. I'm not sure what show Brantley saw, but the choreography was the worst I've seen in years. If you've nothing new to say, why say anything? Gower Champion is dead. Move on. I'm not even sure it had a lighting designer, unless you count "lights on, and "lights off" as design. Oh, and I can't begin to tell you how grating the ear-piercing screams of Minnie and Ermengarde become after the first dozen times or so. Kudos to Hyde Pierce, Creel, Baldwin, and Trensch, but they couldn't save the show. If you're 80 years old and have hated everything produced since before "A Chorus Line" (seemingly the majority of the audience this past Friday), then this show is for you! But if you crave new and creative productions, save your money for "Dear Evan Hansen", "Come From Away", or any one of the great original musicals that are on and off-Broadway right now.
1
I just saw it tonight. I agree with everything you say, Tim. It was painful, broad and what WAS that shrieking about? Awful, awful. The 2nd Act was so long and drawn out that I was eyeing the exit longingly. Watching Bette Midler eat whatever it was that she was eating was enough to put me off my feed for a long time. It was dreadful.
Really/Really? I found this s painful I escaped to th lobby 20 minutes in,
1
I saw the show last night. Bette was wonderful!! She judged her audience well. Second act: gave us what we wanted. Lots of laughs. Lots of Midlerisms Private jokes between her fans and the rest, but we roared with laughter in the second act.
The costumes were fabulous. The set design too.
Best musical I have ever seen, and I have been in NY for 42 years.
Go Bette.
2
Oh Donna, Donna
Not the prima donna
So Pierce-d our hearts
Please, please, never depart!
Not the prima donna
So Pierce-d our hearts
Please, please, never depart!
It felt like you were watching a piece of history. But one thing that marred the performance was rude audience members who think that "no recording" is a rule for everyone else. The poor ushers were running up and down, using pin-flashlights and other techniques, trying to make a few selfish people stop using their cell phones. if you're tempted to do this, please sell your ticket outside the theatre and let the rest of us enjoy the show without your interruptions.
3
I didn't see anyone using cellphones during the show at a recent performance. But people were using them during the curtain calls and that seemed to be some sort of a compromise.
After seeing Dolly three times with Bette, my wish is for everyone, who wants to, have the privilege of this experience. It's a perfect match and Bette is a laugh riot! Maybe they could film it for HBO or Showtime. David Hyde Pierce just gets better and better, as does the cast. They're having a ball on that stage and we're dazzled by their beauty. And yes-- so great to celebrate Beanie Feinstein and Taylor Trensch. I hope to be alive when they star in their revival.
3
Saw it last night......one of the best comedic performances I've ever seen and the cast is an equal delight.....loved it. Standing ovation mid show.....have never seen that before.
4
We saw Bette Midler yesterday in this stupendous show. Life-changing!
3
I want to give a shoutout for Beanie Feldstein who may have the greatest stage presence of the entire cast. She is a true gift to live theater! I could hear the top balcony roar with laughter and delight for her from my seat in the orchestra.
4
Saw the show last night with Donna Murphy, while Ms. Midler is on vacation.
Its hard to please an audience like only Bette can, but I was very impressed by Ms. Murphy's performance, she had the theater eating out of the palm of her hand, though not many leftovers after she was done with that famous scene.
Last night, the moniker "the divine Mrs. M." took on new meaning.
Its hard to please an audience like only Bette can, but I was very impressed by Ms. Murphy's performance, she had the theater eating out of the palm of her hand, though not many leftovers after she was done with that famous scene.
Last night, the moniker "the divine Mrs. M." took on new meaning.
3
Saw this production with Donna Murphy, who is currently taking over for Bette Midler while she's on vacation and has been doing the role on Tuesday evenings since mid-June, and she was simply wonderful! The audience adored her and let her know it. I had a smile on my face the whole time. Go see it with Donna Murphy. You won't be disappointed.
1
Mr. Brantley, this is your best review ever. I just came back from seeing "Hello Dolly" and totally agree with every line you wrote. Thank you for allowing me to revisit the show with your words.
4
Saw the show tonight - theater electric, the divine Miss M SO GOOD. So much joy from watching her and the cast, which seems to be set up as satellites to her as the sun. Took my teenage boys to see it - they'd never seen any iteration of the show before - and they loved it. Timeless, and they'll remember her forever.
1
Wow, I saw the Channing Dolly and loved it. But it was almost ruined when the person living across the airshaft from my apartment played the song really loudly on Saturday mornings way too early! Back before she appeared in Dolly, I already thought she was terrific, and when I was out west with two friends in 1959, we met her in a parking lot in Golden, Colorado, then a lot simpler place than it apparently is now. She was fun -- we were all eating at the tailgates of our cars. What a speaking voice she had, too! Inimitable! In the mid-sixties, when the show was still on Broadway, I arrived in Tokyo, Japan, and on the ride in from the airport there was a giant billboard of "Hello Dolly" which made us laugh out loud. She was everywhere!
1
Midler's voice is very tired (it has a wobble one could drive a semi through). And while she makes a good Dolly, it's (no surprise here) a crass interpretation. Channing remains the best in my experience, although the real item comes in the movie of The Matchmaker, with Shirley Booth, Paul Ford, Tony Perkins, Robert Morse, and Shirley Maclaine.
Oh, and for those of you who can't stand to hear anything negative about Midler, I'll give you another outrage: simply the worst of all Dollys was Streisand—too young, and Dolly is an Irish, not Jewish. That's a really important point that Wilder wanted to make about the melting pot.
Oh, and for those of you who can't stand to hear anything negative about Midler, I'll give you another outrage: simply the worst of all Dollys was Streisand—too young, and Dolly is an Irish, not Jewish. That's a really important point that Wilder wanted to make about the melting pot.
1
Bette Midler is one of the best song interpreters i have ever heard == she gets all of your attention, emotion when she sings == she knows where all the pain, glory, and pure emotion is in every bar
3
This is one of those pairings ( Bette and Dolly) that is so obvious in hindsight that you think: "What took so long?"
9
I first saw Midler onstage when she did her "Divine Miss M" revue in Los Angeles and then again in New York City. Both times the effect of her personality - actually her simple on-stage presence - was absolutely overwhelming. Never have I seen a performer hold an audience so firmly in hand, badgering, cooing, charming, raucously insulting, it did not matter, one was just grateful to be in the room with her.
Onstage she is, simply, the sun coming out. And like the sun, she gives life to everything around her. To this day I do not understand the force she radiated, it is beyond description.
After one song, a song in which she stood, quiet and alone at the edge of the stage, her face a map of longing and pain and joy and hope all at the same time and sang with an emotion so pure and real it was difficult to breath listening to her, I turned to my friend and said, "What is she doing!? I don't understand why it's so powerful." "It's the difference between talent and genius," my friend replied. "And it isn't definable." Indeed.
Onstage she is, simply, the sun coming out. And like the sun, she gives life to everything around her. To this day I do not understand the force she radiated, it is beyond description.
After one song, a song in which she stood, quiet and alone at the edge of the stage, her face a map of longing and pain and joy and hope all at the same time and sang with an emotion so pure and real it was difficult to breath listening to her, I turned to my friend and said, "What is she doing!? I don't understand why it's so powerful." "It's the difference between talent and genius," my friend replied. "And it isn't definable." Indeed.
19
When Bette's a winner, we're all a winner.
And even if I'm priced out of the market for a ticket, I feel like a million bucks after reading this review.
This kind of theater makes life worthwhile.
And even if I'm priced out of the market for a ticket, I feel like a million bucks after reading this review.
This kind of theater makes life worthwhile.
16
what's age got to do with it?
5
I love Bette Midler. She's swell. And kind. And funny.
Thank you, Ms. Midler, for all the joy you give us.
Thank you, Ms. Midler, for all the joy you give us.
17
Not a conventionally pretty voice? Seriously? Haveing seen Ms. Midler severql times, I am most ardent to argue that point. The show she did with Barry Manilow as accompanist was simply her on a stool for a few songs and her voice and emotion was astounding. Have you ever seen her wso Skylark live? Any song that can bring me to tears includes a voice that has reached in and touched my heart. And that is beautiful.
10
Why are the designers missing from the credits section at the bottom of the review?
Scenic Design by Santo Loquasto
Costume Design by Santo Loquasto
Lighting Design by Natasha Katz
Sound Design by Scott Lehrer
Hair and Wig Design by Campbell Young Associates
Make-Up Design by Campbell Young Associates
Ms. Midler's Makeup Design: Oslyn Holder
Associate Scenic Design: Evan Adamson and Jisun Kim
Associate Costume Design: Matthew Pachtman
Associate Lighting Design: Anthony Pearson
Associate Sound Design: Alex Neumann
Scenic Design by Santo Loquasto
Costume Design by Santo Loquasto
Lighting Design by Natasha Katz
Sound Design by Scott Lehrer
Hair and Wig Design by Campbell Young Associates
Make-Up Design by Campbell Young Associates
Ms. Midler's Makeup Design: Oslyn Holder
Associate Scenic Design: Evan Adamson and Jisun Kim
Associate Costume Design: Matthew Pachtman
Associate Lighting Design: Anthony Pearson
Associate Sound Design: Alex Neumann
21
I had a wonderful time seeing this in previews a few weeks back. It was obvious that they were still sorting things out, and there were a few times that things didn't go as expected. At one point, while singing Put on Your Sunday Clothes, Bette appeared to slip a bit stepping down from the set, and I thought for a second that she might fall. But, she caught herself, brushed it off, and kept on going. She even threw in "It's live!", before continuing with the song. The audience loved it.
However, the best part of the night for me happened at the curtain call. Gavin Creel was out that night, so his understudy, Christian Dante White, was playing the role of Cornelius. He appeared a little nervous at first, but he did a wonderful job. At the end of the evening, after receiving her standing ovation, Ms. Midler pulled Mr. White to the front of the stage, then stepped back with the rest of the cast to give the understudy his own moment up front. He looked overwhelmed, and it was beautiful.
However, the best part of the night for me happened at the curtain call. Gavin Creel was out that night, so his understudy, Christian Dante White, was playing the role of Cornelius. He appeared a little nervous at first, but he did a wonderful job. At the end of the evening, after receiving her standing ovation, Ms. Midler pulled Mr. White to the front of the stage, then stepped back with the rest of the cast to give the understudy his own moment up front. He looked overwhelmed, and it was beautiful.
46
That's my girl!
4
Thanks for sharing that lovely story.
3
Congratulations to Ms. Miller and the entire cast and crew. So pleased that Bette is still the Divine Miss M., always and forever!!
5
It's 2017 and Hello Dolly is back on Broadway... the relevance confounds me.
Broadway is the waxworks museum of revivals
3
And yet, here you are reading and commenting. Hmmmm.
5
Sadly, 2 irreplaceable things are missing from this production: Carol Channing and Gower Champion's choreograph/direction. Anyone lucky enough to experience Champion's Broadway creations will recognize the difference between the real thing and imitation. It's sad current revivals choose to dispense with original choreography of Jerome Robbins, Champion, DeMille, Fosse, Bennett, Cole, etc. Generations will never understand what made them so great and be baffled why some shows played so many performances. I hope if Crazy For You ever gets back to Bway it will retain the Susan Stroman/Mike Ockrent staging. I had forgotten what a great song and dance show really was until seeing the one night only 30th anniversary performance. Why didn't Brantley rave about that?
2
So happy to read this review. I have seen her perform live three times over the years and to me she has gotten better with age. however the review in the Wall Street Journal is scathing. Like this one much better!!
2
Not the hot issue, I know, but here's yet another show where it looks like the lighting mission was to us as many magenta gels as possible. I know that bluish pinks are flattering and earth tones seem drab these days, but the purple-pink mania is so overused.
2
Why do we take note of Bette Midler's 71 years (Times print edition, prominent) but generally ignore Donald Trump's 70*? One, gasp, manages 7 performances a week; imagine that! (21 hours on stage; 6 songs per show) The other, gasp, serves as leader of the free world (64-80 hour work week overseeing 3.9 trillion budget). Gee, what could differentiate our perceptions of these two, vis a vis age and job tasks? Ya got me. I'll try to figure it out. *71 in June.
5
I played Horace Vandergelder when I was 13 -- my middle school had a VERY enterprising drama program -- and as a result every single damn note of the show is etched into my brain. (I'm humming "It Takes a Woman" as I type this, complete with orchestral interludes.) I was lucky enough to catch Carol Channing on her national tour 25 years ago, and now I have a feeling a trip to Broadway to relive my former glory may be inevitable.
17
I was fortunate to see the show in preview and Bette lived up to everything I expected of her in person. I would make the effort to attend any Broadway show that she headlines. Only her rare and exceptional talent could breathe life into such a dusty tale, and she did. Many, many years ago, as a half-formed and non-discerning middle schooler I saw Ethel Merman in the role. My recollection is nothing of the story, but of coming away wowed by the magnitude of her voice. The star outshines the story in this case, and back then too.
6
Bette is the greatest and latest in an uniquely American show biz tradition. Who can help but love her!
7
A celebration of the review and Bette!
Tune of Bette's Ya Got ta Have Friends
(verse)
And I sit on the phone
In a ticket buying crisis
Should we put in for a loan?
'Cause we can't afford the prices.
But hon, ya got ta read Ben
Review is oh so strong
Yeah ya got ta read Ben
The seats will not last long
Hope the upstairs isn't gone
That's all they had when I checked
And I've been trying since dawn
The website won't connect.
Sitting on the Ticketcharge line, now
With last night's review in hand
We will settle for balcony, that is fine
Even if it costs half a grand
Oh ya got ta read Ben
It all sounds so divine
There's the hold music again
That's not a real good sign
Tune of Bette's Ya Got ta Have Friends
(verse)
And I sit on the phone
In a ticket buying crisis
Should we put in for a loan?
'Cause we can't afford the prices.
But hon, ya got ta read Ben
Review is oh so strong
Yeah ya got ta read Ben
The seats will not last long
Hope the upstairs isn't gone
That's all they had when I checked
And I've been trying since dawn
The website won't connect.
Sitting on the Ticketcharge line, now
With last night's review in hand
We will settle for balcony, that is fine
Even if it costs half a grand
Oh ya got ta read Ben
It all sounds so divine
There's the hold music again
That's not a real good sign
13
Four cheers and four cheers more for Bette. I find her the best comic actress and one of the best singers of my time (which stretches back to 1940.) Yes, I'd rather listen to Bette than Mary Martin or Ethel Merman. And cheers to for a recovering culture which can once more admit that the sentimental is a respectable and important part of the emotional spectrum.
10
A small quibble. I'll agree that "Ms. Midler's talents have never included a conventionally pretty voice" but who among her predecessors had a "conventionally pretty voice". Carol Channing, Ethel Merman, Pearl Bailey? This role isn't a singing role, it's a role that sings the praises of the actress who has gained the status to play this iconic part. Break a leg Bette, welcome back to Broadway, Baby.
49
Of course it's fabulous! She's STILL THE Divine Ms. M. Congratulations.
15
Bette has always had the rep of being a broad as opposed to being a thespian or female vocalist, and she can play broad to the hilt. But she can also play subtle. Try her cover of "Millworker," which appears on my favorite LP by her, "Thighs and Whispers" (1979). By the way, the song is from the 1978 Broadway musical "Working." You can punch it up on YouTube.
7
I don't have a preference but James Taylor does a great job with that song also. It pains me to say how often the phrase "mill work ain't easy, mill work ain't hard, mill work ain't nothing but an awful, boring job." pops into my head on any given day.
4
@Rick Gage Then there's Jennifer Warnes' version. They're all good.
I'm not necessarily a Bette Midler fan -- I'm much more of a Bette Davis enthusiast -- but she's brilliant.
Just look at her face in the accompanying photo. The woman is a star.
Very different from the bland young things who pass for talent.
Just look at her face in the accompanying photo. The woman is a star.
Very different from the bland young things who pass for talent.
19
I just double-checked at Wikipedia...this amazing woman is 71 years old! That CAN'T be right!!!!
11
I saw Midler's "Clams on the Half Shell Review" in 1977 in Berkeley. She was simply a knockout. So it is heartening to know that she still has the stuff to provide great, energetic entertainment. And in 1977, maybe I could still be called a gay "boy" though I suspect a good deal of her audience at the Continental Baths were adult men. Now that I am old and cranky, that whole use of "boy" to describe homosexual men really irritates. Would you refer to an adult black male as a "boy"? That, thankfully, went out of style many years back. Maybe I'll live to see the day when homosexual men are afforded a little more respect for their maturity.
15
My thoughts exactly when I read that remark.
8
Yeah, in the same review that prominently highlights Ms. Midler's age in the lede of the print edition. Our cultural obsession with her supposedly remarkable ability to perform (Yes! She's 71!"), and a reductive distillation of her audience in pejorative infantilizing terms speaks volumes about being female or LGBTQ in America.
Thanks for pointing that out, I was ready to post my own comment about it. That line struck me as completely unnecessary and completely insulting. If we're going to go back and use phrases popular from the 70s, I believe Mr. Brantley could stand to have his consciousness raised.
1
This sounds like a really fun evening - but my Dolly Heart will always belong to Pearl Bailey and Cab Calloway. That was a special, special production.
4
I went down to Washington to see that production before it was announced it was moving to Broadway where I saw it a few times more. And the cast recording is my favorite to listen to.
1
I saw the show n previews a couple weeks ago and at one point Bette Midler flubbed her lines and nearly got a standing ovation for it! The audience adored her every move.
7
I saw Bette in her Vegas show several years back. I walked in a little jaded and cynical (I don't know why), but she had me screaming for more after only a few minutes. Comedy, tragedy, rousing songs, ballads, jokes, stories. The word legend is batted around too much. But Bette is a legend.
19
I saw her at Caesars Palace also. She was the consummate professional. Covering the massive Caesars' Colosseum stage from side to side, back and forth, all night long. And in heels! What a work out she had making sure all 3 sections got a taste head on.
I just got back from NYC and saw Hello Dolly Wednesday night (4/19/17). She was the best. The show was the best. The choreography was mind boggling. So many moving parts. The costumes were vividly appealing to the mind. The sets were like a social studies class of NYC in at the turn of the 19th century. I was enthralled and mesmerized!
I just got back from NYC and saw Hello Dolly Wednesday night (4/19/17). She was the best. The show was the best. The choreography was mind boggling. So many moving parts. The costumes were vividly appealing to the mind. The sets were like a social studies class of NYC in at the turn of the 19th century. I was enthralled and mesmerized!
9
I have tickets to see the show by 29 june, I'm so excited to see her performing this legendary character dolly levi, and happy to see the real bette playing that role at broadway shubert theater. woow I can't wait to see it all the show.
3
Why could they not use the original, brilliant Gower Champion choreography? Why the constant disrespect to the original choreographers, in revivals of musicals these days?
2
Because it is a fantastic idea to give new choreographers a shot at interpretation of the work. We need a theatre that is alive, not a rehash.
7
"Hello Bette!" And welcome back Ms. Midler. Gosh I missed you, missed hearing your incredible and spectacular voice, and missed the fire and energy in everything you do. You just wow me. Always have. Always will. I will never forget the night you sang for Johnny Carson on his last show. You were and are awesome. Cannot wait to see you in this production. Thank you for doing Hello Dolly.
20
I saw the original - Channing, Mary Martin, Bailey and Merman. God, Ethel Merman(The second balcony at the St. James was only a few bucks.). But Zaks' version is the original on steroids. Bigger! Louder!! Faster!!! It seems he didn't trust the material. Still, it's great musical comedy. And great entertainment.
5
Fascinating that the Wall Street Journal panned Ms. Midler, Mr. Pierce and the show. The reviewer called the show "cartoonish." However, the review noted that the audience adored Ms. Midler.
2
This is one of the best shows to see!
You are smiling from the minute the orchestra starts and leave with all the tunes playing merrily in your head (and continue for hours!).
Bette is the consummate entertainer, and is perfect for the part! Her ability to have the audience in the palm of her hand during the entire show is an incrredible feat. The supporting cast is amazing also, and consists of the most talented people on broadway. The sets, costumes, music, orchestra, and choreography make this a special evening.
I am glad the review mentioned the part where Bette is eating her expensive meal from Harmonia Gardens...it is a tour de force, and both my husband and I could not stop laughing!
This was my first time seeing Bette in person...I'm sorry I never went to any of her concerts...they must have been amazing!
You are smiling from the minute the orchestra starts and leave with all the tunes playing merrily in your head (and continue for hours!).
Bette is the consummate entertainer, and is perfect for the part! Her ability to have the audience in the palm of her hand during the entire show is an incrredible feat. The supporting cast is amazing also, and consists of the most talented people on broadway. The sets, costumes, music, orchestra, and choreography make this a special evening.
I am glad the review mentioned the part where Bette is eating her expensive meal from Harmonia Gardens...it is a tour de force, and both my husband and I could not stop laughing!
This was my first time seeing Bette in person...I'm sorry I never went to any of her concerts...they must have been amazing!
15
I'll be seeing Hello Dolly in two weeks and after reading the review, I'll need to pop a xanax before the curtain rises. I'm sooooo excited
11
I haven't been to NYC since I have been a teen. Thanks for convincing me, Bette!
3
Count me among those who revere Ms. Midler. Her artistry, intelligence and humanity are inspirational. I attended the 2nd night preview. The audience was, quite simply, elated. Considering the times we live in [Trump’s America (now), the Plague Years (1980s)], it is extraordinary that she is able to bring real joy to our hearts. The play is a pedestal. These tributes are our thanks for her life’s work.
15
I'd watch Bette Midler watch paint dry. She's a treasure.
61
So true!
4
I agree that Ms. Midler does not have a "conventionally pretty voice." She is, however, one of the best interpreters of contemporary songs that I have ever heard. I envy those who will have the opportunity to see her perform live.
15
As she has so many times in her career without specifically intending to, Bette comes to our rescue in a time of need.
15
I will never have the opportunity to see this live, but does anyone know if there are any plans for an hd broadcast to movie theaters? If not, perhaps this would be a good choice for the next network television musical adaptation. I've been lucky enough to see the show 3 times with Carol Channing and once with Pearl Bailey. The movie is, for me at least, unwatchable.
11
The movie is unwatchable. The only salvation is the saccharine, in this role, Tommy Tune, but I like his footwork.
1
This unwatchable film was nominated for seven Oscars, including best picture. It won three: art direction/set decoration, score of a musical picture. best sound.
2
Totally disagree. The movie was directed by Gene Kelly. It stars not only Tommy Tune, but Walter Matthau, Barbara Streisand, AND Michael Crawford. Gene Kelly choreographed it as well. Not sure how you could slam it. It was my favorite movie as a kid, and I still love it today.
1
Agree with all the positive comments. Smiled through the whole thing. Could finally say I saw Bette Midler "live" before I die, and I was thrilled. Great energy, amazing cast....now if I can just stop hearing the title number over and over in my head.
13
When you leave the Shubert Theatre you will be in a state of ecstasy and exhilaration This revival of HELLO, DOLLY, spreads joy and happiness right from the very beginning when the curtain goes up on Santo Loquasto's magnificent sets and stunning costumes.The Divine Ms. Midler is fabulous in this role, making it her own for a whole new generation of theatregoers who have never seen this show performed on stage. Carol Channing was superb in the original 1964 production; Channing did two revival/national tours both stopping in NYC for 3 months in 1978 ( when she was 57) and for 4 months in 1995 ( when she was 74). Channing's memorable performance is still incandescent; Midler's is also great. Bette has molded her characterization of Dolly Levi with certain Midlerisms but gives a very touching, moving performance representing women in middle age whose lives are on a downward slant, and how they rebound through sheer will, some luck, and their benevolent spirit. Midler's vocal asides to her deceased husband were very touching. Watching the great production number, "Before the Parade Passes By," really hits you especially when you are older and your life has gone by. Get out, live life to its fullest! The entire cast is wonderful, and David Hyde Pierce really does beautiful worth with Horace Vandergelder. Tbis is an evening you will remember for the rest of your life. Good luck getting tickets.
24
I do wish Broadway blockbusters such as Hello Dolly and Hamilton would show up in cinema ala London's National Theater series; it would benefit the entire country if not the entire world!
65
Arguably the greatest time I've had at the theater since I saw the original cast in "A Chorus Line" way back in 1977 (exactly 40 years ago, and at the same Shubert Theatre!).
When the entire company marched out in lockstep belting out "Put on Your Sunday Clothes," I had a series of theatre-geek nergasms that'll be very hard to top going forward.
When the entire company marched out in lockstep belting out "Put on Your Sunday Clothes," I had a series of theatre-geek nergasms that'll be very hard to top going forward.
20
The art of the likable is at the heart of Ms Midler, the purity of her Aloha spirit. The night she sang to Johny Carson on his finale outing was a clear demonstration of the genius of the lady, not doing more than she needed to, looking at him with real affection as he struggled against his tears. It stays with you.
19
I found a used Bette Midler at a thrift store and stuck it reluctantly into my car's player about 6 months ago. I then fell in love with her renditions of standards -- especially the song " Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most" as well as the rest of her varied repertoire. Her singing is fresh, gutsy, romantic and sexy when it needs to be. So glad she finally landed in a role that was made for her ...I luv Streisand but she was never right for the role. Bette's the ticket! I wish I had one to this show!!
11
Well, Streisand would probably be right for the role now. She played it when she was still in her twenties. No one is right for that role while in their twenties.
8
Thank God I managed to get tickets. Truly a bucket list event for me. While I'll have to wait until October, the review has really got me excited. Oh Boy!
9
A truly great performer who has incredible longevity in show business.
8
Love, love, love Ms. Midler... and have since the 70s. I have seen her live twice and she is just a fantastic performer. So happy that her Broadway revival is getting great reviews. Maybe I can get a ticket to it a bit sooner than 'Hamilton?'
8
Sheesh, I was happy to get box seats for The Price at $69. Don't know if I can swing this. Glad I saw Bette at Radio City in '94. Fan since The Divine Miss M when I was a student at RISD in '73, where my friends and I played that LP until it wore out!
14
Forgot I saw her at the Palace in Providence April 1973! So long ago, but I remember she wore a 40s style flowered dress.
I've seen it happen a few times both on stage in person and on live TV when Bette Midler becomes incomparably huge, so much larger than life. The voice becomes gigantic, the smile titanic, the empathetic outreach to the audience almost uncanny, something like a miracle. I don't know how she does it but I've never seen anyone else do it, not Barbra Streisand, not Judy Garland, not Diana Ross or Liza Minelli. That Midler is doing it still at 71 give hopes to all of us lesser humans.
69
Thanks, Fragan - I have a comment here also but not as penchant as yours. You described our Miss M beautifully ...
4
Congratulations to Bette Midler for her work here, and a special shout-out to Mr. Bill Prudich for his humble (and exceptional) supportive contributions to that fancy footwork!
13
I absolutely adore Bette Midler in all of her incarnations. I absolutely LOATHE "Hello, Dolly". You couldn't pay me to see this cacophony of hyperactivity. And I also love David Hyde Pierce. As another commenter poster, I'd love to see the Divine Ms. M in "Mame", a much, much better play with a far superior book and score. Here's hoping!
6
Saw this show in previews and totally agree. Bette rocks, but the book is really musty. One of those mysterious paens to the dankest aspects of straight mating practices. Such a puzzle when Mame would've been a wonder. Could've largely used the same cast...
3
Aloha nui loa Bette, you da best kine!
13
Ms. M is one of the few really class acts left in show business.
16
Bramtey pulls off the trick of writing a rave review while somewhat protesting!
There are veryfew people who would puy
Brantley writes a rave review while somewhat protesting! Very few people would put Streisand's portrayal in the same league with Channing and Merman. Barbra was in her late 20s and cast for her star status while Channing was never even considered. This obvious miscasting was cited by many critics when the movie was released.
And why are NYT reporters, critics and other writers obsessed with what they perceive is a "New York accent" in a somewhat disparaging aside? Midler was born in Hawaii and has always spoken this way. None of the other characters' "accents" are mentioned. And BTW, this musical is about people from Yonkers.
There are veryfew people who would puy
Brantley writes a rave review while somewhat protesting! Very few people would put Streisand's portrayal in the same league with Channing and Merman. Barbra was in her late 20s and cast for her star status while Channing was never even considered. This obvious miscasting was cited by many critics when the movie was released.
And why are NYT reporters, critics and other writers obsessed with what they perceive is a "New York accent" in a somewhat disparaging aside? Midler was born in Hawaii and has always spoken this way. None of the other characters' "accents" are mentioned. And BTW, this musical is about people from Yonkers.
8
What a fascinating coincidence!
Ben Brantley's review of "Hello, Dolly!" states that Midler's final scenes “… may leave you with tears in your eyes without your quite understanding why.”
On the same day in the same Arts section, Alastair Macaulay’s review of Tango dancers Gabriel Missé and Carla Espinoza states that “This is the kind of dancing that makes you cry without being able to explain why.”
All this unexplained crying! Perhaps the NYTimes critics need group therapy?
Ben Brantley's review of "Hello, Dolly!" states that Midler's final scenes “… may leave you with tears in your eyes without your quite understanding why.”
On the same day in the same Arts section, Alastair Macaulay’s review of Tango dancers Gabriel Missé and Carla Espinoza states that “This is the kind of dancing that makes you cry without being able to explain why.”
All this unexplained crying! Perhaps the NYTimes critics need group therapy?
8
Perhaps we all do since 1/20.
7
Forget the show. What a review!!
27
The review gave me tears, as did the one in the LA Times.
5
Bravo, Bette--and thanks for the zingy review, Mr. Brantley. Just reading it brought back the joy of seeing the Carol Channing production in 1965, and Barbra Streisand in Funny Girl the same week! How's that for an introduction to Broadway?
14
So jealous! What a week that must have been!
8
At age 13 in the same week while visiting New York, I also saw the Dolly with Channing, Funny Girl with Streisand, and Barefoot in the Park with Robert Redford and Elizabeth Ashley.
5
It truly was; I've been grateful ever since. I was 17--therefore old enough to remember everything! And--both Barbra and Carol said hi to me as they left the theatre--honest! Barbra went out the front of the Winter Garden; her husband Elliott Gould picked her up.
2
I was treated to this DIVINE performance for my 60th birthday & what a treat it was!!! Bette has been one of my faves since I was a wee lass & when it was reported that she would play Dolly, I knew I had to witness this bit of Broadway genius. It is wonderful! The cast is wonderful... heck, the audience is wonderful!! And, quite correctly, the dinner scene in Act II, was, indeed, one of the highlights of the show. Even better (no pun intended) a water glass was almost knocked over during her performance, to audible gasps in the audience. Bette's reaction was priceless... she played off the audience ("...that's showbiz... happens all the time...") It was equally as good as the written word! See this show. This role was written for Bette Midler. Thanks, again, boys. It was a pleasure sharing this phenomenon with you!!
14
Back in the 80's in college in Des Moines, I somehow talked some of my friends into plunking down beer money for a bus and truck performance of Dolly featuring Carol Channing at their Civic Center. If I recall correct it was a one or two night mid-week drive through. I was nervous they might kill me for bringing them to some out-of-date nostalgia with an aging star only a theater buff like me would enjoy. However, 10 minutes in my fears were softened as the audience laughed along with her. By intermission my friends were giddy with how fun it was. By night's end it was magic for everyone there as Channing could do no wrong on any level. I'm sure Bette is the bomb, but I will keep Dolly, forever, in Des Moines.
11
"When she rasps out the anthem 'Before the Parade Passes By,' you hear her voice as that of a nightingale.
I love love love Ms. Midler and I loved loved loved her in Hello Dolly, but a nightingale's voice?? Thanks for the chuckle.
I love love love Ms. Midler and I loved loved loved her in Hello Dolly, but a nightingale's voice?? Thanks for the chuckle.
2
Once upon a time I, too, thought of HELLO DOLLY as a hackneyed, nostalgia star vehicle for past their prime songstresses. But this view changed after seeing a terrific production of HELLO DOLLY at the Goodspeed Opera house which made me realize that I hadn't really known the show. It's really about an older woman - at precisely the age when society would just as soon ignore her - who manages to maintain her optimism and confidence despite a lack of both personal and financial resources. Dolly has traditionally been cast with performers who overwhelm the character - to the detriment of the show. Bette Midler could easily do the same. But she is the exact right person to be in this role. She is a fine, fine musical stylist who knows how to plumb richness and meaning, often transforming herself while doing so. That she is 71 with a perhaps somewhat diminished voice contributes to the character. Also known for her warmth, sass and moxie - well, it couldn't be better. The real anthem of HELLO DOLLY is not the eponymous lead song, it's BEFORE THE PARADE PASSES BY which voices the collective yearning of older women to be included and valued. At this very peculiar moment in our history when women are STILL struggling for equality and recognition, only Bette Midler could re-fashion HELLO DOLLY to be actually relevant.
58
I have always loved Bette Midler. Having your voice change as you age is nothing new, and should be accepted as all other evidence of a long life -- wrinkles, crow's feet, gray hairs, etc.!
I think Bette would have made a delightful Dolly Levi....30 years ago. If you read the original play/story, Dolly is supposedly to be about 40 -- not 71. She's a young widow! And of course 40 was old(ish) in 1905 (or whenever its set, around then I think). People didn't live as long 100 years ago. Today we tell ourselves that "40 is the new 30" but nobody thought that back then.
The stage allows for such vanity, up to a point. I think at 50 or 55, Bette could have carried this off with aplomb. Not now. 71 is just too old, and clearly many folks say she's winded and tired.
The really sad thing is they should have made a FILM with Bette in a new "Dolly" when she was under 50 and could have carried it off. I just saw her on one of those "old TV show" channels, in a special ("Old Red Hair Is Back") with a young looking Dustin Hoffman (of all people!) and she was just delightful; I did think she'd be a wonderful Dolly or any other brassy leading lady parts. But that was the 80s! Too much time has gone by.
Sic transit gloria mundi.
I think Bette would have made a delightful Dolly Levi....30 years ago. If you read the original play/story, Dolly is supposedly to be about 40 -- not 71. She's a young widow! And of course 40 was old(ish) in 1905 (or whenever its set, around then I think). People didn't live as long 100 years ago. Today we tell ourselves that "40 is the new 30" but nobody thought that back then.
The stage allows for such vanity, up to a point. I think at 50 or 55, Bette could have carried this off with aplomb. Not now. 71 is just too old, and clearly many folks say she's winded and tired.
The really sad thing is they should have made a FILM with Bette in a new "Dolly" when she was under 50 and could have carried it off. I just saw her on one of those "old TV show" channels, in a special ("Old Red Hair Is Back") with a young looking Dustin Hoffman (of all people!) and she was just delightful; I did think she'd be a wonderful Dolly or any other brassy leading lady parts. But that was the 80s! Too much time has gone by.
Sic transit gloria mundi.
She is a national treasure.
22
Everything else aside the fact that two of the leading female roles on Broadway this season are played by septuagenarians is absolutely astounding and inspiring.
Some of us wonder what we'll be able to do as we age. These women prove that the sky is the limit and we can do anything.
Age cannot whither nor customs stale the infinite variety of these magnificent and talented women. Brava!
Some of us wonder what we'll be able to do as we age. These women prove that the sky is the limit and we can do anything.
Age cannot whither nor customs stale the infinite variety of these magnificent and talented women. Brava!
24
Yay, Bette, the first non-Carol or Pearl "Dolly" on Broadway" since the show closed with Merman in 1970. Joining the ranks of the many divas too vast to mention in the most deliciously modern old fashioned show that deserves a big, brassy revival, and it looks like Bette has given it to us! Looking forward to seeing this in August. Having seen Bette just down the alley (connected to the Shubert Theater) as "Sue Mengers", I will be counting the days, as I have towards opening night from the time I bought my full price orchestra seat in January.
4
My introduction and love of musical theater started when my parents took me to The Muny in St. Louis to see Pearl Bailey and Cab Calloway in Hello Dolly. It was magical. I imagine this production with Bette Midler may do the same for some young person seeing theater for their first time.
For the regular theater crowd that will have the good fortune of seeing this production, I’m envious.
For the regular theater crowd that will have the good fortune of seeing this production, I’m envious.
8
Congratulations to the girl who was so worried about her very first album being released in time for her to go on the road and start making money. This self-effacing lady (who gave me the name of her voice teacher!) was fearful of never being able to support herself. We were both in our mid-twenties and I told her there was plenty of time to earn cash. Six months later, after six producers vied for their interpretations of the chestnuts that she sang on her first album (under the aegis of Ahmet Ertegun) - Bette's first "real" tour was a huge success.
I hate to say "I told you so" but that day back in 1972 was propitious. Bette was were able to pay her band and clearly was able to support herself during what I would call trying times.
You deserve it all. And more.
I hate to say "I told you so" but that day back in 1972 was propitious. Bette was were able to pay her band and clearly was able to support herself during what I would call trying times.
You deserve it all. And more.
20
"while the chase sequences bring to mind slap-happy Blake Edwards comedies"
The one jarring note in the review. If such madcap zaniness characterizes the show, and it sounds like it does, then we'll give it a pass!
The one jarring note in the review. If such madcap zaniness characterizes the show, and it sounds like it does, then we'll give it a pass!
1
Good. Then New Yorkers can have a chance to see something amazing. You can stay in NC with your bathroom bills and gerrymandering.
18
Oooh snap lol.
7
Saw the show April 12th from the blessed front row and LOVED every minute. Bette is the perfect fit, like one of Irene Malloy's hats. From the first note, it felt like a trip back in time to classic Broadway Musical land - and in the best possible sense, basking inside a technicolor cartoon made live. Go before it's gone because I'm sure even for a vet like Bette, pulling off this vivacious live act over and over can't go on forever. And yes, the dining scene is one I will never forget - I nearly choked from laughing and for those glorious few minutes I knew I was in the presence of comic genius reminiscent of Lucille Ball minus the conveyor belt. Go!
16
I saw Carol Channing in "Hello Dolly" was I was 8. She didn't need to be miked, her voice rang through the theater and she was extraordinary.
6
Ms. Channing was extraordinary, but she was miked. I believe that all big musicals were miked by 1963. The St. James, where Dolly played for seven years in the sixties, has a second balcony as does the Shubert. It is far.
I saw the original Hello Dolly with Carol Channing in 1964 when I was a young teenager and it made a huge impression on me, I loved the show. I saw this version of Hello Dolly last Saturday it is everything Mr. Brantley says and much more and yes it is now my standard for the show.
7
I had the wonderful experience of seeing Carol Channing as Dolly the same evening Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy was sitting in the row in front of my parents and I. The entire evening was thrilling. I will never forget Carol Channing. What a remarkable entertainer. Casting Barbra Streisand in the film was a terrible choice. If anyone can come close or exceed Carol Channing's performance it can only be Bette Midler. It is not just a singing voice. And there are more than a few numbers that will stick in the minds of those who get to see the show. To Bette Midler and her fellow cast members, "Break a leg."
6
Bette for President!!!
10
Flying from Australia to see this next month. Best thing ever! Can't wait
9
I am writing from Wisconsin to tell you that we in the U.S. are so delighted and grateful to hear that you will be visiting us! Australia is one of America's best friends. Always has been, always will be No matter what any President says.
8
Despite the weight on her shoulders, the show is not "All Bette", but it appears diva-fixated Brantley could not be bothered to give adequate attention to the featured actors and the excellent chorus. Midler deserves his praise, but the rest of the cast deserves more credit.
13
A primo instance of perfect casting! A hot ticket in every sense, and a feel-good Broadway show just knowing it exists!
1
I saw this and really liked it. Gavin Creel and Kate Gallagher and Taylor Trensch were outstanding. I'm one of the dinosaurs that has seen Bette since the bath house days. She was very good. As you say her kicks are noticeably cut back and her voice went out the night I saw it; she had to brought water. The colors are overwhelming beautiful and the production and dancers are all great. My beef was -- really -- take a beat -- it is just Bette Midler in Hello Dolly. I paid $400 for a Partial View seat that I was stuffed into like a sardine, and I misssed at least 10% of the show, including 2 big scenes. Of the cast, the only misstep is Beanie Feldstein who happens to be Jonah Hill's sister. (I wonder if that mattered?!) It is a fun night out; don't let them rob you for it though. Also Jennifer Simard's pivotal scene was 95% played out of my view. I wish they'd found a way to block resale of tickets; it is out of control.
9
I saw Carol Channing and Pearl Bailey in the original production
and took my kids to see Channing in the 25th anniversary revival.
I'm taking my grown daughter to see Bette.
So many stars shine brightly in a work created by Jerry Herman. Michael Stewart and others. Stars in future generations may also be able to shine because
of THEIR talents.
and took my kids to see Channing in the 25th anniversary revival.
I'm taking my grown daughter to see Bette.
So many stars shine brightly in a work created by Jerry Herman. Michael Stewart and others. Stars in future generations may also be able to shine because
of THEIR talents.
8
We traveled last month from SW VA to see Bette in Hello Dolly. It is flawless, particularly the orchestration and singing, but also the staging, dancing, sets and costumes, the grandest of grand old Broadway!
15
Perhaps Mr. Brantley should have taken a night off from quibbling and just enjoyed the damn show!
5
Huh?!
His entire review exudes unbridled praise, not quibbling!
He clearly enjoyed the show; time for you to re-read it!
His entire review exudes unbridled praise, not quibbling!
He clearly enjoyed the show; time for you to re-read it!
8
Did we read the same review? I can't think of a review that gives more broad praise from a critic who clearly enjoyed himself than this one. Even the few points of "quibbling," as you have it, lend themselves to the overall praise of the show.
8
Whoosh!
Seeing it soon-can't wait
2
Spot on, Mr Brantley! And I am thrilled that you got it right. Saw it Wednesday night with my 15 year old son, 22 year old daughter and my husband. They laughed about that dinner scene the entire ride home. The show was pure joy, but the other joy is that we got the preview tickets for $99 face value the day tickets went on sale. Yes, we were in the nose bleed section. It didn't matter. We loved every minute. A great family night, one that we'll remember forever. Thank you, Ms. Midler! Thank you, Mr. Pierce!
34
Hope that was $99 total! Otherwise, it means you spent $400 to watch Bette eat!
Better to stay at home and have a family dinner together, while watching one of her movies! Just as fun and a whole lot cheaper!
Better to stay at home and have a family dinner together, while watching one of her movies! Just as fun and a whole lot cheaper!
1
From the enlightened state of North Carolina.
11
I vividly recall witnessing Ann Miller portray Dolly in a 'Starlight Musicals' production on the Butler University campus in Indianapolis in the early 1970s. Miller was great, and her performance pay-off came immediately following the show's second-act title song: Strutting back onto a bare and curtained stage, she expertly whisked off her period skirt and petticoat and commenced a tap-dance routine that thrilled those in the audience familiar with her movie career.
15
Looks like Miss Bette is a shoo-in for the Tony, even with the formidable Patti Lupone and Christine Ebersole in the mix.
7
Bette has more class and style in her left boob than Patti has in her entire Diva body..... with its highly overrated screechy half tone-off voice!!!!!
4
Except Midler and Lupone/Ebersole will be in different categories: revival vs original musical.
1
Their musicals (Hello, Dolly! and War Paint) would be nominated in different categories as you stated, but all three actresses would be eligible for the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical.
1
There is no one better to star in probably the greatest entrance scene ever written! "Hello Bette" perfectly sums up the show, and there is no way you even from a few rows away would guess she is 71. Get tickets while you can for the performances she will be in.
15
Yes, yes yes. Bette Midler takes her place alongside Carol Channing and Barbra Streisand and Ethel Merman with a splash of Sophie Tucker. But let's not forget Shirley Booth in the 50s film THE MATCHMAKER, the first film Dolly.
And if "Hello, Dolly" is the show's anthem, "Before the Parade Passes By" is the show's heart and rallying call to live life.
And if "Hello, Dolly" is the show's anthem, "Before the Parade Passes By" is the show's heart and rallying call to live life.
20
When I was a student at Syracuse University in the very early 1970s, I reviewed at the downtown Loew's State Theater an up-and-coming pistol-of-a-performer named Bette Midler, whose accompanist for the show was some obscure pianist named Barry Manilow. My review was so giddily effusive, the editors of the campus paper The Daily Orange started it on the front page. To this day, what I remember most vividly about that once-in-a-lifetime experience is that the future Divine One had the audience on its feet for most of the show. She was, she is, she always will be a force of nature like no other.
62
After Dolly, please get Bette in a revival of "Mame" - that too would
be a sure Bette!!
be a sure Bette!!
13
When I was in college, 'Hello Dolly' was touring with Carol Channing playing Dolly Levi. I traveled two hours to get to Tulsa, OK to see it and still can't forget Ms. Channing's performance. Now I would love to see Ms. Midler as Dolly. Both the character and the actress are forces of nature. (Also the final weeks of Glenn Close in 'Sunset Boulevard' would be a performance to remember).
5
Bravo, Bette. And considering all the good work Bette has done for this city through her New York Restoration Project, she really is back where she belongs.
19
I cannot WAIT until this Saturday night when my boyfriend and I see this show! We bought out tickets last September the morning they went on sale!
6
I saw it in previews and found the show stale, the production "meeh" and Midler's performance sad. She didn't have the energy for the role, was physically fatigued (I saw it on a Thursday night) and her voice was strained. Don't know how she's going to do it long-term. Choreography and sets lame. I understand nods to original productions but "Before the Parade Passes By" as a production number was a total yawn. 21st century audiences expect (and deserve) better. I was super excited before hand but was longing for the Babs movie (!!) when it was all said and done. A major disappointment.
4
Of course you'll probably say the same thing about Jesus when he returns. Some folks are just plain sour, anyway you look at it.
Sad I won't have a chance to see this production as I knew Ms. Midler would be perfection in the role.
Sad I won't have a chance to see this production as I knew Ms. Midler would be perfection in the role.
10
I agree completely. Saw it in March and was terribly disappointed. Ms Midler was exhausted and Mr. Hyde-Pierce seemed terribly miscast. The entire second act was squeezed onto the tiny stage and as the cast pranced around the pit, I was sure someone would fall in. The net was a good idea. But, the bottom line is, The audience came to see Bette and they thought she could do no wrong.
You probably love "Cats".
1
Mr. Brantley rightly burns inches on the spectacular Bette Midler, but I wish he had saved more space for David Hyde Pierce. As we have seen in every show he's graced, Hyde Pierce is a sublime performer who radiates sheer joy and whose subtlety is, I'm sure, a perfect foil for the Divine Miss M.
22
This show was everything Ben Brantley exclaims it was. It was magical, fun and a moment in history that this man will never forget. Thank you, Bette.
13
I'm a big fan of the Divine Ms. M but I've never understood the appeal of this show. The joke used to be "Name a song from 'Hello, Dolly!' other than 'Hello, Dolly!'." The libretto is as thin as a breadstick. I'm sure that Bette and her producers will make a pot of money but if I have to spend a fortune to see a Broadway musical I'll find a better one than this to transport me to the poor house.
16
I take it you can't afford Hamilton tickets either Stu.
1
This was never considered a great show, in the league of "My Fair Lady," " How to succeed....," or "Stop the World...," but Midler in this role is an inspired choice.
If I could afford the experience to see an old pro do good work, I would go see it. Gone are the days I paid a few bucks to stand to see Sammy Davis Jr. in "Golden Boy." Sigh.......
If I could afford the experience to see an old pro do good work, I would go see it. Gone are the days I paid a few bucks to stand to see Sammy Davis Jr. in "Golden Boy." Sigh.......
7
I agree with you, Stu - I don't care very much for the show and the score is banal, in my view. After a patch, Ms. M will only perform during the week - I BELIEVE Judy Kaye will fill in on the weekends - but don't quote me on that. Ticket prices are ridiculous - I'll wait for the movie! :-)
1
I hope it runs forever.
36
All things come to pass. Way back when the earth was still cooling, I represented Bettle along with Barry Manilow (her pianist) and several back up singers all of whom forged their own magnificent care.
Many years ago I was responsible for all of Bette's club dates. She would periodically come into my office bemoaning the fact that she wasn't yet making any money from the new album. I told her to be patience and this would all seem like a blip on life's horizons. Well, the blips are gone but not Ms. Midler.
Bless you Bette for never given up on your vision and for never letting some many of your die-hard gay fans to help launch your career.
Many years ago I was responsible for all of Bette's club dates. She would periodically come into my office bemoaning the fact that she wasn't yet making any money from the new album. I told her to be patience and this would all seem like a blip on life's horizons. Well, the blips are gone but not Ms. Midler.
Bless you Bette for never given up on your vision and for never letting some many of your die-hard gay fans to help launch your career.
131
Saw Bette, Barry and those back up singers back in the day and knew that she was going to be a huge, long lasting star -- she had it all -- voice, charisma, the connection with the audience etc. Have loved Bette in everything that she's done.
Her performance of Quarter to Three (One More For the Road) on the last night of Johnny Carson's era on the Tonight Show is incredibly moving -- so much so -- that not only was the audience crying but also Johnny had tears in his eyes.
Go Bette -- win that Tony that you deserve to have.
Her performance of Quarter to Three (One More For the Road) on the last night of Johnny Carson's era on the Tonight Show is incredibly moving -- so much so -- that not only was the audience crying but also Johnny had tears in his eyes.
Go Bette -- win that Tony that you deserve to have.
33
And actually that performance of Bette's was on the second to last Tonight Show, but it was so much more moving and satisfying than what Carson did solo on the last night, that people remember it as the finale. Another testament to her.
4
The first play I saw on Broadway was Hello Dolly with Pearl Bailey and Cab Calloway when I was in the 6th grade. The paragraph below posted by AS below describes my feeling exactly after the seeing the show way back in 1969.
"What a pure delight in every way - the staging, the set design, the costumes, the music, the performances - it's just so much fun. I can't remember the last time I sat smiling from the minute the curtain opened until hours after the curtain closed. This show left me feeling happy for days, and happy now just to think of it again. There are dance numbers here that will knock your socks off"
There's one thing I'd like to know from those of you that have seen the previews of the current HD, when I saw the play with Pearl Bailey, she came back out after the final curtain and talked to the audience for a while, so I thought that was the norm for Broadway performances, I can't remember the next play I saw after HD, but I thought one of the lead performers was going to come back out and talk to the audience. Needless to say I have been to many, many performances after Hello Dolly, and maybe I was there on the wrong night, but not one performer has come out and talked to the audience after the show, just wondering has Ms. Midler come out and talked for a while after the final curtain because she certainly has the personality to make you think that she would
"What a pure delight in every way - the staging, the set design, the costumes, the music, the performances - it's just so much fun. I can't remember the last time I sat smiling from the minute the curtain opened until hours after the curtain closed. This show left me feeling happy for days, and happy now just to think of it again. There are dance numbers here that will knock your socks off"
There's one thing I'd like to know from those of you that have seen the previews of the current HD, when I saw the play with Pearl Bailey, she came back out after the final curtain and talked to the audience for a while, so I thought that was the norm for Broadway performances, I can't remember the next play I saw after HD, but I thought one of the lead performers was going to come back out and talk to the audience. Needless to say I have been to many, many performances after Hello Dolly, and maybe I was there on the wrong night, but not one performer has come out and talked to the audience after the show, just wondering has Ms. Midler come out and talked for a while after the final curtain because she certainly has the personality to make you think that she would
8
I saw Pearl Bailey do "Dolly" in Boston and I saw Carol Channing do it in three separate decades. In the 60's in Hartford, in the 70's in Boston and again in the 90's in Boston. Every time that I saw Channing she also spoke to the audience during the final bows.
3
I love that Ms. Bailey took the time to thank and speak with audience members at the stage door, and I wonder if/hope Ms. Midler and the other talented HD cast members do. "Stagedooring" is something I discovered relatively late (I have loved, participated in, and experienced theatre since I was a child but only started queuing to thank performers, musicians, and creatives after college) and really enjoy about seeing plays and musicals -- as a classical musician, I always loved thanking and congratulating colleagues following their performances.
But as more recent Broadway performers have reminded fans (Cynthia Erivo tweeted about a fan who badmouthed her for not stagedooring in favor of going home to rest following an illness), it is not requisite and is something performers do out of generosity/goodwill.
It can be a disappointment when your favorite performer slips out the front of house or an alternate exit, but I understand that they're only human, and they have already fulfilled their duties that evening onstage. Some performers never stagedoor, for various reasons (for instance, Jessica Lange, because she had/has? a stalker).
But as more recent Broadway performers have reminded fans (Cynthia Erivo tweeted about a fan who badmouthed her for not stagedooring in favor of going home to rest following an illness), it is not requisite and is something performers do out of generosity/goodwill.
It can be a disappointment when your favorite performer slips out the front of house or an alternate exit, but I understand that they're only human, and they have already fulfilled their duties that evening onstage. Some performers never stagedoor, for various reasons (for instance, Jessica Lange, because she had/has? a stalker).
1
That Ms. Midler would want to work so hard at this point in her career is a tribute to her fans and her talent.
167
I saw the show last Friday and it was worth every penny to experience the performance with my daughter!
4
"Ms. Midler’s talents have never included a conventionally pretty voice." That's not fair. The voice was MUCH better than pretty.
Emphasis WAS. She's 71! All good things must come to an end. I heard her sing "Wind Beneath My Wings" at the Oscars a couple of years ago. With great showmanship she concealed and covered as best she could. She was always a fine performer. But the voice is no longer there - how could it be!
I have fond memories of and great respect for Ms. Midler, but I refuse to believe that there aren't any younger, higher-kicking belters out there who couldn't give us a better run for our money.
Emphasis WAS. She's 71! All good things must come to an end. I heard her sing "Wind Beneath My Wings" at the Oscars a couple of years ago. With great showmanship she concealed and covered as best she could. She was always a fine performer. But the voice is no longer there - how could it be!
I have fond memories of and great respect for Ms. Midler, but I refuse to believe that there aren't any younger, higher-kicking belters out there who couldn't give us a better run for our money.
7
Apparently you have never seen Hello Dolly.
10
Age does diminish the voice and most can't fight it, which makes Tony Bennett all the more astounding.
3
Oh, please please please ensure there is a video version of Broadway stars onstage in every Broadway play. Especially Bette in this play. It wouldn't be as great as actually seeing her in person, but it would still be engraved in time for all to enjoy.
109
Sorry, but theater does not translate to video. It would be a complete degredation of this artist's work and just not give you the experience. It would be like a fax of your family portrait. You are in New York-- go to a show! This is a once in a lifetime experience. The videos can be seen in the library after the actors can no longer act and that is all there is left.
1
I agree that there is nothing like live theatre, but also that, for the many people who will not be able to make it to see Ms. Midler, a video recording would be consolation. Yet most producers don't want to cannibalize ticket sales. (For instance, how the original Broadway principal cast of Hamilton were taped over a few performances, but the tapes will remain in a vault for many, many years, since the Broadway, Chicago, multiple touring, and forthcoming West End productions are still running.)
Most (all?) Broadway plays and musicals since the 1970s are filmed for posterity (not necessarily public release/distribution) to be kept in NYPL's Theatre on Film and Tape Archive, where theatre professionals, students, and researchers are permitted to watch a production once in their lifetime. https://www.nypl.org/about/divisions/theatre-film-and-tape-archive
Most (all?) Broadway plays and musicals since the 1970s are filmed for posterity (not necessarily public release/distribution) to be kept in NYPL's Theatre on Film and Tape Archive, where theatre professionals, students, and researchers are permitted to watch a production once in their lifetime. https://www.nypl.org/about/divisions/theatre-film-and-tape-archive
YES!!! If Ms Midler is not coming to LA, maybe I will mosey myself over to NY :)
25
Mr. Brantley....the men for whom Bette Midler was performing at the Continental Baths were not gay "boys", they were gay "men". Show some respect.
27
My late 70s mother in Atlanta refers to my partner and me as "the boys". We're early 50s men and quite okay with that because she's awesome.
Let's not look for insults that don't exist.
Let's not look for insults that don't exist.
89
Back then we considered ourselves "gay boys" and it never felt disrespectful. Watching Bette back then we just wanted to have a good time with the Divine Miss M. Of course, here we are 40 years later and I would never call a young gay man a "gay boy" now.
I think he was appropriately using "boys" as an expression like "something for the boys" or the "boys in the backroom" or the "boys in the band" for that matter...
49
My someone was in a good mood tonight! Was at a preview and we were concerned about her voice lasting. If she'd been saving herself then good for her. Charles McNulty of the L.A. Times gave this show even higher praise. Like the highest praise you can give. Looks like it won't be so easy to ignore her this time come nomination day.
20
Oh my, I wish I could see it. What a triumph for Bette. So happy for her and grateful for her sharing her prodigious talents with us.
36
I just read WSJ's Terry Teachout's pan of this and cannot believe the two men saw the same show.
6
Ignore, dismiss and excoriate Terry Teachout's review of this show! He is a misogynist who also just finished panning the fabulous "War Paint" starring Patti Lupone and Christine Ebersole - both of whom were wonderful portraying 20th-century visionary entrepreneurs Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, respectively. He actually wrote that the bit parts of the salesmen in these two executives' careers would have made for a better story! Despicable!
31
I haven't seen either "Dolly" or "War Paint" but Mr. Teachout is someone I wrote off a long time ago as not someone worth my time. Just hollow and slick.
30
On the other hand Brantley is prissy and overzealous, very difficult to read his reviews.
8
Spot on this time, esp the bit about earthquake insurance during the showstopper dance of the waiters. My only addition is further praise for Gavin Creel (Cornelius) who sings wonderfully--a terrific performance. I don't think I've ever seen a show that exudes such joy--and the audience sucks it up gladly. (And yay to that dancer who executes the fouetté turns.)
53
All I can say is yay! :)
19
My very first Broadway show was Hello Dolly with Carol Channing. How I wish I was still living in New York City and could hop on the NYC subway and be at the theater in 20 minutes. I also love the Barbra Streisand movie. Bette will be spectacular.
18
Ann:
Just do what us "bi-coasters" did...
Head to NYC and see the show ASAP...you'll be glad you did and you'll love the time in NYC too...
It was great to see people out just really enjoying themselves in the midst of all the angst we're feeling on the east and west coasts!
Just do what us "bi-coasters" did...
Head to NYC and see the show ASAP...you'll be glad you did and you'll love the time in NYC too...
It was great to see people out just really enjoying themselves in the midst of all the angst we're feeling on the east and west coasts!
35
All it takes is pots of money.
8
So, so, so lucky to have seen this show in previews! What a pure delight in every way - the staging, the set design, the costumes, the music, the performances - it's just so much fun. I can't remember the last time I sat smiling from the minute the curtain opened until hours after the curtain closed. This show left me feeling happy for days, and happy now just to think of it again. There are dance numbers here that will knock your socks off, and our Divine Miss M is wonderful. Right back here where she belongs, indeed. See it if you can!
84
Isn't it a shame that it now costs $500 (either VIP seats or secondary market purchase) to see a quality musical on Broadway these days?
Hommages...or homages?
Hommages...or homages?
64
Not quite $500. I just bought 2 side orchestra seats for a Friday in January and they were $189 each (plus service charge). Not cheap, by any means, but considering what baseball or concert tickets cost, not outrageous, IMO.
29
"Homage" is properly a mass noun, but its plural form would be "homages."
1
Took my husband and two teen-age kids to see it the night before opening night. Paid $99.00 a piece (plus service charge!) for right balcony seats the day the tickets went on sale. I feel like I got a Tiffany diamond at Target prices!! And they all LOVED it! It's so expensive to take the family to a Broadway show, but this time, at least, I struck gold.
5
Such a tease of a review, leaving us West Coasters hungry and salivating. Somehow we've got to get tickets. Ms. Midler and talented crew--a delectable rendering of the Hello Dolly always wanted to see and now, can't allow to miss.
34