Happy Bloomsday, Everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              How can I forget, girls?  Besides being my niece's birthday, this is also Bloomsday.

                               The legend of this day has two stories.  The first is it is the day on which Joyce's entire novel, "Ulysses," takes place, back in 1904.  The second is that on this day, presumably in 1904, he met the woman, Nora, who became his wife.

                                 Each story is beautiful in its own way.  For those who know I am literary, it is embarrassing for me to say that I have not yet read "Ulysses."  I have a copy in the house and still have full intention to read it; but there is so much to get through before it.  Originally, I had the idea of re-reading Homer's "The Odyssey," and then "Ulysses" to see how the two are entwined.  But, outside of Shakespeare and Emily Bronte, I was not one to handle verse.  So, if I do "Ulysses" it will be a stand-alone reading.

                                  Alas, on this day, I should have stood in the living room and read Molly Bloom's Soliloquy aloud.  I have often done that in past years, but we were busy today, so that is that.

                                    All I can do is wish everyone on here a Happy Bloomsday!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                 "...and I said yes, I said yes, yes Yes YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                 We should all be so lucky, like Molly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"RAGS" VS. "RAGTIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                                                               

                          If you really must know, darlings, it all began with E. L. Doctorow, who published what turned out to be his masterpiece novel, "Ragtime," back in 1975.

                          That was also the year Robert Altman came out with his cinematic masterpiece, "Nashville."  I was in college, then, and read everything about this film, and in an article on it in "Film Quarterly," back then, I read that Joan Tewksbury and Altman were collaborating on a film version of "Ragtime."  What a perfect combination to create this film from that novel, I thought.  Unfortunately, it never came to pass, and Milos Forman went on to direct the film version of "Ragtime."  Released first on November 20, 1981 and then nationwide on Christmas Day of that year, the film garnered fairly good reviews, but to this day I refuse to see it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                         About a year later, several years after Doctorow published his novel, and I was working at Lincoln Center, I heard word of Joan Micklin Silver, the creator of "Hester Street," also released in 1975, working on a project called "RAGS," dealing with the Jewish immigrant experience on the Lower East Side.

                        Silence for a long time after that.  Next, I heard Silver had dropped out of the project and it was now being conceived as a musical, with Joseph Stein, of 'Fiddler' fame, writing the book, Charles Strouse the music, and Stephen Schwartz, the lyrics.

                         One of the best songs in the "RAGS" score is "Blame It On The Summer Night."  And that is how it happened for me on an August night in 1986.

                           I was then dating a guy who was a company manager for Broadway shows, and "RAGS" was one of his shows.  He called me at work one day and wanted to know if I wanted a free ticket to "RAGS" that night.  Of course, I said yes.  The show had this glorious cast--Teresa Stratas, Larry Kert, Lonny Price, Judy Kuhn, Marica Lewis and Dick Latessa.  Rex Everhart also had a small role in it.  This sounded like Broadway gold!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                         It turned out it was.  Halfway through the opening number, I was swept away.  And the songs just kept getting better and better.  I still get chills remembering the first time I heard Teresa Statas (yes, she was there!!!!!!!!!) sing "Children Of The Wind."  Not to mention then newcomer Judy Kuhn, who stopped the show with her highly impassioned and dramatic rendition of the title song.

                         When the Intermission came, I knew two things.  I had to run to a pay phone--remember this was 40 years ago; hey, "RAGS" turns 40 this year! --and tell friends to hurry down to the Mark Hellinger and see it, because, I knew, being a dark show, it was not destined for a long run.  This was a show Theater Queens and cultists had to see, which they did, and which subsequent productions of this show have drawn new audiences to bask in its musical glory.

                         I was right.  My next contact with "RAGS" was five years later, in 1991, when the Original Broadway Cast recording, with Julia Migenes Johnson, instead of Teresa Statas as Rebecca, was released, and it was a joy to finally hear the score.  That same year, the American Jewish Theater did a steam lined version of the show, preserving the important content, with then Broadway veterans Ann Crumb and Crista Moore as Rebecca and Bella.  Moore's equally compelling rendition of the title song ended Act One, and I thought, what a way to end the first half!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                            My two recent contacts with "RAGS" were several years ago, when I saw a beautiful production of the show downtown at the Connelly Theatre on East 4th it, and trying to get into a reading of it with Ted Chapin and Jessie Mueller presumably reading and singing the role of Rebecca.  Hey, Ted and Jess, how about it???????????

                          I still say not enough attention has been paid to "RAGS."  Now, let us go to "Ragtime." 

                          The musical adaptation of "Ragtime" opened in 1998 with a starry-eyed cast including Marin Maizie, Peter Friedman, Audra McDonald and Brian Stokes Mitchell.  It was a  hot ticket, and I had reservations about it anyway.  I caught the show finally nearing its run's end, and the performers seemed to be walking through it.  The starry-eyed cast was gone.  I will say that Terrence McNally's book did justice to Doctorow's novel, but the score by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty simply did not do it for me.  Two songs--the opening number and "The Wheel Of Dreams" do not a show make.

                            I was certainly in the minority.  The original production of "Ragtime" did itself proud at that season's TONYS and became a revived classic.  Unlike poor little "RAGS."

                            "Ragtime" was revived on Broadway in November of 2009.  Maybe I saw it as my birthday show.  I recall liking the staging--it was conceptual within the family house--and McNally's book still had its strength but the music, save for the two aforementioned songs, did nothing for me.  The outstanding cast member was Christiane Noll, who played Mother.  She is the daughter of director Ron Noll, with whom I had worked eight years before on VLOG's production of "The Pajama Game."

                              And now there is this present version of "Ragtime," playing to crowds at the Vivian Beatmont.  It dominated the TONYS, and I was thrilled for Joshua Henry and Caissie Levy, though I wish they had won for other shows!  What is it about "Ragtime" that draws people to it?  And the score, which people seem to love?  Why do I find "RAGS" the better score?  Is it taste, sophistication, or are those drawn to "Ragtime" attracted because it is less a darker show than "RAGS?"   But that is exactly why I am drawn to it.  Also, Lear DeBessonet, now the head of Lincoln Center Theater, and who directed this current version of "Ragtime," was cited by NY Post critic Johnny Oleksinskias not being able to stage anything, and I have to agree, after seeing what she did to "Oliver!" at ENCORES several years ago, I have to agree.  How come ENCORES! has never done "RAGS?"

                                   I have to say Lear DeBessonet bears a disturbing resemblance to Bari Weiss, and I bet is just like her.  I hope she does not ruin LCT.  They should have hired Bartlett Sher.  I may not agree with him, but he knows how to stage a show.

                                For those who are interested, the original production of "RAGS," in its entirety is currently on YouTube.  I urge you to take a look.  Like 'Merrily' it is a dark, problematic musical but with a great score.  I would like to live to see "RAGS" get it right, as Maria Friedman did with 'Merrily.'

                              As for those who champion "Ragtime," for God's sake please tell me why!!!!!!!!!!

                            For those who truly want to experience "Ragtime," here is my suggestion--

                                           Read the E. L. Doctorow book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                           Oh, and one last thing.  Note how the logos of both shows are rather similar.

                                            Stop copying "RAGS" and not giving it credit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Timothee Chalamet Has Put His Foot In His Mouth Again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

                                           The question has to be asked, darlings.  Is Timothee Chalamet a great big closet case?  Remember I have always said they are the most dangerous breed of gay men.

                                            Recently, I read, with all the nutty stuff going on in NYC, between FIFA and the near riots caused by the excitement of the Knicks, that Chalamet stated the Knicks victory was "better than the Oscars."

                                               Are you kidding???????????????

                                             First of all, darlings, the only thing the two have in common is that they are both competitive events.  

                                             Chalamet has done it again and bitten the hand that feeds him.   I am still recovering from his ballet and opera comments, and now he knocks the Oscars?  This guy may be a quality actor, but does he have a brain?  Doesn't he realize his ballet and opera comments cost him the Oscar he should have won, and would have, for "Marty Supreme?"   And now this statement, which, if he gives an award caliber performance in the film year, might sabotage his chances for another nomination?

                                                  David and I were discussing this one morning, and David maintains it is Chalamet trying to prove his heterosexuality!!!!!!!!!!!!  Why the need, Timothee????????  Is there something you have not yet told us??????????  Darling, we have suspected it for years!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                    Wise up, butter cup!  Otherwise, you will not have a career.

                                                     You may end up being the only one who gives a damn about it, if you do or don't wise up!!!!!!!!!!!  Me, I don't care one bit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                         Enough with this heterosexist nonsense!!!!!!!!!!!  And during Pride month, too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  What a disgrace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                          Maybe Timothee needs some duct tape for him mouth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I Want A German Shepherd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                            I like dogs of all sorts--large and small.  I have interacted with some loving German Shepherds in the neighborhood, and my friend Indy, who recently passed, had a lot of that breed in him, and he was so fun to play with.  So was Bova, who loves playing catch with me, but only so far with his owner around, so she can moderate.  Never go near a dog, girls, until it gets to know you.

                           Again, I have to explain.  A German Shepherd 24/7 in our apartment would not work, due to its size, need, for exercise, and its dander affecting my allergies.

                            So, here is my idea.

                           I know there are service dogs who visit hospital patients and people in nursing homes.  What I would like is a service that brings a dog to the home of someone like me--I suffer from anxiety--so I can spend some limited quality time with him or her.  Like when Dexter, who used to live here, would come to visit.  I would love a German Shepherd, as I find them comforting and loving, but the last two qualities are more important than the type of dog.  Dexter was a mixed beagle and pointer.

                          So, girls, if there is any info you can provide on this topic, please let me know.

                          Meantime, Baby Gojira is always and will always be our own baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Girls, I Just Discovered We Have A New Reader!!!!!!!!!!! So, Time For A Warm Welcome From All!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                     It has been a while since I have done this, but I am so happy to do so.

                                   The reader's name is Marjorie, and I want, on behalf of my other readers, to welcome her to this blog.

                                    The Raving Queen goes great with coffee, which fuses me with energy to write here every morning.  On this blog can be found information, entertainment, flights of pithiness, outright bitchery, but most of all fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                     Let us all give Marjorie a big round of applause, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                      And usher her in with this blog's unofficial theme song--Deborah Harry singing "Call Me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                     Enjoy, Marjorie, as well as everyone else!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"I Feel Stormy Weather Moving In.......With The Thunder Don't I Lose My Head????????????????????????????????"

                                        Oh, girls, isn't "It's Raining Men" just the perfect song for Pride and this month, but not when it involves my body.

                                             Yes, this new protein diet or whatever I am supposed to be on is wreaking havoc.  I often feel like I will have an accident when there is nothing there, and last night I pushed so hard I bled.  It's like being Rosemary without the pregnancy.

                                                  I don't know what kind of diet--or not!--The Weather Girls were on when they did "It's Raining Men," but they look like they had the energy to get out there!  Lately, I am not so sure.  I thought I was on the right track until Sunday morning when we each had an apple turnover for breakfast.  It was luscious, but, afterward, I am not sure.  Which is where I am at now.

                                                     Unless the place is super clean and private, I cannot go to the bathroom--I am not talking about urinating--any place but home.  Yes, girls!!!!!!!!!  A girl needs her own powder room to be minty fresh.  Even more crucial now, as I am unsure of what is going to happen, or when!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                         So, here I sit, ready to write, and read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                        Raise up the roof and shout it out, darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                   Here is the song, dolls!  Go to it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When Will I See The Buttercups?????????????????

                                    Summer is fast approaching, darlings, and I know some may disagree with me, but I love seeing a green lawn filled with yellow dandelions.  I know it is a weed, but it makes the lawn look pretty.  And when the dandelions go gray, I always loved blowing on them, so they would blow and bloom more yellow.

                                         Now, the buttercup is a plant, but they pop up in the strangest places, I recall them all through my childhood.  I love shining them under someone's neck, which indicated that person was fond of butter.  Aren't we all, girls????????????????

                                              Alas, I have not seen a single buttercup this year.  As Pete Seeger said, "Where have all the flowers gone?"

                                              If anyone out there has seen any buttercups or has an idea of where in the Bay Ridge area I can find any, please let me know.

                                                  They are a summer treasure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                            

2,676 Pages In 53 Days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                                                   

                                                                                   

                                                                                  

                                                                                 

                                      That's right, darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I began reading "The Lonesome Dove Tetralogy" on April 21, and finished it yesterday, June 13, at 5:45PM.

                                         I had originally planned on reading only "Lonesome Dove," which I had loved years before, and which "The New York Times" last year published a piece on, concerning, I think, its 40th anniversary of publication.

                                             But then I found out it was a series of four, so, since I already had bought a copy of "Lonesome Dove," I decided to read the entire series.  And what a marvelous 53 days it was.    

                                              Of course, the problem now is how do I top it?  Let alone equal it?  Can  I? So, I am going back to some non-series fiction until my next big book project, which I will let you know about once it happens.

                                                 I am not a Western movie fan, but I love reading Cormac McCarthy, and Larry McMurtry, and recommend you read them both.  I guess epic Westerns work best for me on the printed page.

                                                    Really, I thought it would take me longer.   So, I wanted to share the joy of this project with you and suggest you try this series.

                                                      Happy Reading, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Darlings, Look At All These Production Sketches By Vincente Minnelli!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Along With Cecil Beaton, The Screen Never Before Or Since Has Had Such Great Artistry!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

   

 

Girls, I know this is more an exhibition than a post, but I just had to show you some of these great Minnelli sketches, as he does not get enough credit for his artistry.  And I am not talking about the biggies like "Meet Me In St. Louis," or "Gigi."  I am also talking about the little-known films everyone forgets he directed, like 1955's "The Cobweb," and 1956's "Tea And Sympathy."

       Certainly, by this time he has had his share of retrospectives and exhibitions, but I think it is time again for a Minnelli Renaissance, as there are now whole generations out there who don't know who the hell he is or was.  And LIZA just turned 80 for, God's sake. So, girls get to the nearest DVD store, stock up on Minnelli films, and have a binge festival.  Perfect for Gay Pride.

And cheaper than a college--even community college--course in Art History!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Girls, Join Us Tonight At 8PM, As The Sven Squad Presents The 1999 Film, "Idle Hands!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                     From what I have gathered, this seems to be a campy spoof of the 1924 silent film, "The Hands Of Orlac," or its American remake in 1935, "Mad Love" with Peter Lorre.  Both involve hand surgery gone awry when one or both of the hands become evil at the owner's expense.

                                       Having seen the trailer, this looks like one boy gets his hand possessed, and cannot stop it, even with his other hand, from doing evil.  It could be a camp blast, dolls, and appearing in this film is a rather young Jessica Alba.  

                                          Certainly, this film is better suited to the humorous tone of the squad than last month, when they had the temerity to show "Rosemary's Baby."  A mistake that, hopefully will not be made again.  Same with "The Bad Seed."

                                              All of us here in our Bay Ridge enclave are more curious than excited.  But the potential for laughs seems unlimited.

                                               How did I miss this film in 1999?   

                                                 See you tonight at 8PM, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

                                       

Girls, You Really Should See 1945's "Yolanda And The Thief!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                        Before getting to the brilliance of this shot, let me say that, along with George Cukor, Vincente Minnelli was the gayest of gay movie directors.  So, if you want to view iconic gay movies this month, I would start with anything by these two.

                         "Yolanda And The Thief" is hardly mentioned by anyone, and there are reasons.  It was not a critical or box-office success.  It ended the movie career of Lucille Bremer, who had been so good in 1944's "Meet Me In St. Louis--"ultimate Minnelli!!!!!--and it almost ruined Fread Astaire's cinematic credence.

                               But look at that superb color composition.   The black and white floor--almost Cecil Beaton--contrasting with Lucille Bremer's yellow dress, and Fred Astaire's cream white pants and pale blue blazer.  We should all be so elegant at all times, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              Not even Minnelli's artistry could save this, as was the case with 1951's "An American In Paris," which mistakenly won the Oscar for Best Picture, and, aside from the visuals, is a pretty boring film, save for the big dance number.

                               'Yolanda' deserves a look for any number of interesting shots, but the story of a South American girl seeking her guardian angel is a bit silly.

                                  Again, if watching gay movies this month, and desiring sophistication beyond "Valley Of The Dolls," look no further than the work of Vincente Minnellli!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I Want To Go To "Brigadoon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                  "I want to live in a carnival city, with laughter and love everywhere."                                                               ---Barbra Streisand, "Have I Stayed Too Long At The Fair?"

                                  Especially after what I recently recounted, girls.  Not just Brigadoon, but Oz or Wonderland; I am not picky.

                                  But imagine a void in the nothingness opening into a gigantic hole, leading one into a magical, musical village.  I mean, look at the color composition of Vincente Minnelli in that photo.  All these shades of blue, contrasting with Cyd Charise's red.  Oh, my God!!!!!!!! Who wouldn't want to go there????????????????????????????????

                                    I know I am pining, girls, but sometimes things get so overbearing one wishes for a magical place to retreat to.  I have my books, and some movies.  I am thinking of going on a Vincente Minnelli binge, as I have seen less of his movies than more.  And there are some black and white films of his I never knew he directed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                      So, forgive me girls, if I wax rhapsodic for a magical place.

                                      Even if, like Dorothy, it is right where I happen to be!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So Far, It Has Been A Sad June!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                         It all began on June 1, darlings.  I went to the computer, all set to play 'Sgt. Pepper,' as it was the 59th anniversary of the release of that classic album.  The date also would have been--note that--the 72nd birthday of my friend and former co-worker, Suzanne.  Imagine my shock when I found an email from her current spouse, informing me she had passed away from duodenal cancer on May 6.

                           What will haunt me forever were her last words to me.  She emailed me from the hospital, where she was planning on having some sort of surgery to deal with the cancer.  Her very last words to me were, "I am so frightened."

                             I heard nothing after that, so I figured she was busy, dealing with the cancer, going to doctors, getting treatments, etc.  Instead, she went very fast.  It must have been too late.

                            I would have liked to visit, but Suzanne lived in upstate New York, the Lake George area, which would have been difficult.

                             But that is not all.  Everything comes in threes, right?   Well, shortly after hearing about Suzanne, I heard that another friend and former coworker of mine, Sara, passed away in March.  David and I went to a memorial and reception for her in Manhattan.  It was fun seeing and reconnecting with folks I had not seen in years, but the warmth and niceness of Sara, as a worker and a person shall be missed.  And I will not neglect to tell all, her cause of death was the same as Suzanne's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                               Today we the icing on the cake.

                               We ran into a neighbor of ours, who has this lovely mixed German Shepard named Indy, short for Indiana Jones.  I had not seen Indy in a long time, so we asked about him.  She sadly informed us he passed at the end of April.  My father's birthday was April 30.  And--get this--he died exactly the same way as Suzanne and Sara.  Yes, dogs can get cancer.

                                    I am grief stricken for all, in such a rapid span of time.  I shall cherish the memories of all here, with a special neighborhood remembrance to Indy.

                                      As one of my friends would say, "May their memory be a blessing."

                                    Indeed, darlings, indeed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

From "Schmigadoon" To "Brigadoon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                           When I reviewed "Schmigadoon," I referred to it being like the stage version of a Technicolor MGM Vincente Minnelli musical.  Well, guess what, girls?  The 1954--my birth year--film version of "Brigadoon" was exactly that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             Just look at the superb color composition in this photograph!  The contrasts of color in the brown ground and the blue and pinkish sky!!!!!!!!!  And the darkness of Kelly's color coordinated costume and the brightness of Cyd Charisse's (yes, that is her!) yellow dress.  Only Minnelli could have achieved this.  "Brigadoon" may not the perfection of "Meet Me In St. Louis," for those interested in the Minnelli canon, it is worth seeing.

                              I have never seen it, and, girls, how I want to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              How many of us, before Donna McKechnie, wanted to dance like Cyd Charisse?  And wear dresses like that?  I know I did!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              I think "Brigadoon' is underrated in the Minnelli canon, and deserves a secnond look.

                              And now, thanks to "Schmigadoon," it will!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How About Those TONY Awards, Girls???????????????????????????????

                            The first thing I have got to say, darlings, is what the hell was Sarah Paulson wearing???????????  Many of the gowns worn by female nominees were designed by the likes of Christian Siriano, but Paulson looked like she stepped into a clearance bin and came out with the wrong two halves of two separate outfits.  Say, what???????????

                              The second thing is how could that grotesque CREATURE known as Lea Michele have the NERVE to show her face on the TONYS?  And looking like she just came from a performance of "CHESS" in that black, vampiric dress. Face it, Lea, you are DONE on Broadway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              What else didn't I like?  (Don't worry; there will be some things I did like!!!!!!!!!!!)

                                Nathan Lane was so obviously pissed he did not win for "Death Of A Salesman."  I guess TONY voters saw what I saw--a hard working actor overreaching to achieve a role that was a bit beyond his grasp.

                                   Rachel Ziegler--The tribute to "A Chorus Line" was a disgrace.  Actually, there was a better tribute in how the "Ragtime" number was staged, with the actors seeming to come up from the ground in a single line formation.   This had more of the heart of "A Chorus Line" than Ziegler blaring out "What I Did For Love," a song about choices made and regrets or determination to go on, which should be sung wistfully, not like a wailing banshee!  Within the tri-state area are actors who at some point have done the show. Couldn't some have been collected to end the evening with "One?"  That would have been the perfect ending to the TONYS.

                                      Speaking of wailing, Marla Mindelle's wailing spot on impersonation of Celine Dion, and the naughtiness of the "Titanique" number, was just what the TONYS needed, even if it and they did not win.

                                    I did not like the smug looks coming from Christopher Abbott, even if he did not win.  His Biff was played like a present day alpha hetero; Abbott may be gay, but with his smugness, who would want him?????????????????

                                    Nathan Lane--Again, to placate his ego, he was allowed to run up the stairs and be the first to hold the TONY for Best Revival Of A Play?  While Joe Mantello, the direcftor, quietly sat back????????????  Oh, come now, Nathan, aren't we getting a little too Bari Weiss for our own britches????????

                                     Now, for what I DID like..

                                     To her credit, PINK did not disgrace herself.  I did not like her desecration of Mary Martin in the opening number, but she more than made up for it with her Roxie Hart in the "Chicago" tribute.  I mean, Fosse's choreography is a bitch.  I should know, because LIZA and I are the last of the belters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                       Caissie Levy, Shoshanna Bean and Joshua Henry were the classiest recipients whose speeches were moving and filled with graciousness.   Unlike that punk whose name I am not going to mention, from "The Lost Boys."  Enjoy it while you can, kid.  Because your next achievement of note will probably be getting caught for subway surfing!

                                          Damn, I am SUCH a bitch!  Well, that is why I am The Raving

 Queen!!!!!!!!!!

                                          I adored the dress Lesley Manville wore.  I wonder who designed it?????????????????????

                                         As the evening edged toward Best Musical, I was really worried.  Would "The Lost Boys" take it?  Fortunately, cooler heads prevailed and I was so happy "Schmigadoon" won!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Girls, if you watched the TONYS, you saw how colorful and heartneing it is.  I urge those of you having not seen it, and want to see a REAL musical, to see this TONY winner!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                          One last caveat.  The women are allowed to dress stylishly.  Men in tuxes are nice, but how about a little flamboyance allowed?  A good portion of the TONY constituency, the NYC theatrical community, and its patrons are GAY, so why not let the TONYS go GAY?  Especially since they are aried on Pride Month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                           So, that is my take on The 79th Annual TONY Awards.

                                            I cannot WAIT for "Evita" next season.  Not because I want to see it, but because--

                                             I am anxious to hear what PATTI has to say!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Dana Andrews Said Prunes Gave Him The Runes...........'" Girls, Join Us At 8PM Tonight As "Svengoolie" Shows The Seldom Seen "Curse Of The Demon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                   Last shown in 2023, and directed by screen master Jacques Tourneur (known for his brilliant work on 1942's "Cat People," and even more brilliant, 1943's "I Walked With A Zombie") this film, was originally titled "Night Of The Demon" in England, where originally released in 1957, then changed to 'Curse' for American distribution.

                                     That is not all that was changed.  Adapted from M. R. James' 1911 short story, "Casting The Runes," the story has the ambiguity of Henry James' "The Turn Of The Screw," and it was Tourneur's plan to preserve this.

                                      However, the studio, for American distribution insisted on showing a monster.  It can be seen clearly in the poster, and, to me, looks like a cute, friendly, giant bat.  Better to have left things alone, but, darlings, for those who want to see a creature in all its glory, one must wait until the final shot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  The waiting is enjoyable as Tourneur's mastery makes the film an underrated work of art.

                                     This is really the best of the lot that "Svengoolie" is unreeling this month, so I would tune in.

                                       All of ius here are going to tune in for fun and thrills!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                       Somehow aptly appropriate, dolls, the night before the TONYS.

It's That Time, Girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Time For The TONY Predicitions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                            Some may call the program the "Gay Super Bowl," and you know what?  They are right.

                             Having seen more shows this season than in recent years, I feel I should be on the committee.  Nevertheless, I have my ideas about the upcoming TONYS and let me say not everything is a slam dunk.  I wish it were, but that is just not the case.

                                 Now, how to do this?  I am sticking with only the major categories in plays and musicals.   And since I know what is most important to this audience, let's start with musicals.

                                     Best Musical                                                                                                                                                       "The Lost Boys"                                                                                                                                                 "Schmigadoon"                                                                                                                                                 "Titanique"                                                                                                                                                         "Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York)"         

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

                                     Darlings, this is a strong category.  My personal choice would be "Schmigadoon," and no one would be happier than I to see it win.  But I predict this award will go, undeservedly to "The Lost Boys."  'Two Strangers' is a dark horse, and "Titaniquue" lacks the theatrical erudition needed to win a TONY.  So, it is "The Lost Boys," but watch out for 'Two Strangers.'

                                            Best Revival Of A Musical                                                                                                                           "CATS:  The Jellicle Ball"                                                                                                                            "Ragtime"                                                                                                                                                      "The Rocky Horror Show"    

                                 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

                                           Another very strong category.   While I would love to see "CATS: The Jellicle Ball," win, and hope it does, I think "Ragtime" will win.  Why I do not understand because the score is not that good.  Two songs do not a show make.  If you want "Ragtime," darlings, pick up the E. L. Doctorow novel and read it.  The one thing 'CATS' has a lock on is costume design!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  We shall see, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                               Best Leading Actor In A Musical                                                                                                                   Nicholas Christopher, "CHESS"                                                                                                                   Luke Evans, "The Rocky Horror Show"                                                                                                       Joshua Henry, "Ragtime"                                                                                                                               Sam Tutty "Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York)"                                                                     Brandon Uranowitz, "Ragtime"

                                               Still a strong category!  Could the two "Ragtime"-ers cancel each other out?  And what about Nicholas Chirstopher in "CHESS?"  Will voters fall for his mannered vocal technique rather than the emotional depth and warmth rendered by the late David Carroll in the 1988 original Broadway production?  He could be a dark horse.  As could Sam Tuttle for his charming turn in 'Two Strangers.'  But after years in the industry and his turn as Billy Bigelow in 2018's "Carousel," I think it is time for Joshua Henry.  Yes, I think he will win.

                                                Best Leading Actress In A Musical                                                                                                                Sara Chase, "Schmigadoon"                                                                                                                          Stephanie Hsu, "The Rocky Horror Show"                                                                                                    Caissie Levy, "Ragtime"                                                                                                                                Marla Mindelle, "Titanique"                                                                                                                          Christiani Pitts, "Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York)"              

                                                 This was a surprisingly strong season, and it did not start out that way. Surprises galore just swept into town, with an embarrassment of riches to choose from.  I can think of only one winner here--Caissie Levy in "Ragtime."  I have enjoyed her since "HAIR" in 2009, and it is time she was recognized.  The other ladies, while in good shows, and given good material haven't roles as strong as Levy's to win the TONY.  Hey, didn't the late Marin Maisie win a TONY for her role in the original 1998 Broadway production????????????????

                                                     Best Featured Actor In A Musical                                                                                                                 Ali Louis Bourzgi, "The Lost Boys"                                                                                                            Andre De Shields, "CATS: Th Jellicle Ball"                                                                                                 Bryce Pinkham, "CHESS"                                                                                                                             Ben Levi Ross, "Ragtime"                                                                                                                             Layton Williams, "Titanique"   

                                                    Bryce Pinkham and Aaron Tveit were the only ones who impressed me in "CHESS."  And Tveit's omission is sinful.  My prediction is it will go to Andre De Shields, who should get it just for doing 8 shows a week at age 80, but whose dedication to the industry deserves some recognition.  And he is terrific in the show.

                                                     Best Featured Actress In A Musical                                                                                                               Shoshana Bean, "The Lost Boys"                                                                                                                 Hannah Cruz, "CHESS"                                                                                                                                 Rachel Dratch, "The Rocky Horror Show"                                                                                                   Ana Gasteyer, "Schmigadoon"                                                                                                                       Nichelle Lewis, "Ragtime"

                                                       Can you believe it, girls? Two SNL alum among the nominees.  While good, I don't expect they will win.  Ana Gasteyer is funny but simply does a reincarnation of Margaret Hamilton!  That actress would be proud of Ana!!!!!!!!!!    I don't know how much musicality Rachel Dratch shows, but I know Shoshana Bean is heartbreaking and touching in "The Lost Boys" and deserves the TONY for her dedication in consistently playing troubled mothers.   I think Shohana Bean will win.   

                                                         Best Direction Of A Musical                                                                                                                         Michael Arlen, "The Lost Boys"                                                                                                                   Lear deBessonet, "Ragtime"                                                                                                                         Christopher Gattelli, "Schmigadoon"                                                                                                              Tim Jackson, "Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York)"                                                                 Zhalion Levington and Bill Rach, "CATS:  The Jellicle Ball"    

                                                           If it were up to me, Christopher Gattelli should win, because the highlight of "Schimgadoon" is the entire production.  Now, on Frank DiLella's show last week, I heard NY Post critic Johnny Oleksinski say of Lear deBessonet  that she cannot stage a show, and I agree after the mess she made of "Oliver!" at ENCORES!!!!!!!!!!!  And to think she is now the head of Lincoln Center Theater!  This is as bad as Bari Weiss at CBS!  However, I think it is going to be a slug out between Michael Arlen and Lear deBessonet.  But I think Christopher Gattelli should win. 

                                                             So that is it for the musical categories.  Thre could be a sweep of either "Ragtime" or "The Lost Boys," but I hope not.  Do I need to summarize.  Let me do so.

                                                               Best Musical--SHOULD--"Schmigadoon.   WILL-- "The Lost Boys" .

                                                                Best Revival Of A Musical--SHOULD--"CATS: The Jellicle Ball".  WILL:  "Ragtime"

                                                                Best Leading Actor In A Musical--SHOULD: Joshua Henry in "Ragtime" .  WILL: Joshua Henry in "Ragtime"

                                                               Best Leading Actress In A Musical--SHOULD--Caissie Levy in "Ragtime".  WILL:  Caissie Levy in "Ragtime"

                                                                Best Featured Actor In A Musical--SHOULD: Andre De Shields in "CATS:  The Jellicle Ball."  WILL:  Andre De Shields in "CATS: The Jellicle Ball."

                                                                Best Featured Actress In A Musical--SHOULD--Shoshana Bean in "The Lost Boys."  WILL:  Shoshana Bean in "The Lost Boys."

                                                                 Best Direction Of A Musical--SHOULD: Christopher Gattelli for "Schmigadoon."  WILL--Either Michael Arlen or Lear deBessonet, and with the way luck is going, it will be deBessonet, though she is horrible.

                                                                   Last word on musicals, girls!  Expect a sweep of either "The Lost Boys" or "Ragtime."

                                                                     Now, let us get to the plays.

                                                                      Best Play                                                                                                                                                        "The Balusters"                                                                                                                                              "Giant"                                                                                                                                                            "Little Bear Ridge Road"                                                                                                                             "Liberation"

                                                                     First of all, I think Laurie Metcalf should have been nominated twice and should have been cited for "Little Bear Ridge Road."  All the plays are strong, but in this PC era, darlings, you just know it is going to go to "Liberation."  So, gird your loins, girls!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                                   Best Revival Of A Play                                                                                                                                 "Becky Shaw"                                                                                                                                               "Death Of A Salesman"                                                                                                                                 "Every Brilliant Thing"                                                                                                                                 "Fallen Angels"                                                                                                                                             "Oedipus"

                                                                       Despite the reservations I had about the staging concept, I think "Death Of A Salesman" will win.  Not only for its innovation, but its acting.  And face it, darlings, it is better written than any of the other nominees.  Oh, I have heard talk about "Oedipus," but I think "Death Of A Salesman" is as sure a bet as "Ragtime." 

                                                                      Best Leading Actor In A Play                                                                                                                        Will Harrison, "Punch"                                                                                                                                   Nathan Lane, "Death Of A Salesman"                                                                                                           John Lithgow, "Giant"                                                                                                                                   Daniel Radcliffe, "Every Brilliant Thing"                                                                                                     Mark Strong, "Oedipus"  

                                                                        Again, there is all this "Oedipus" talk, but who the hell saw it?  Who cares????????????  I would love to see Daniel Radcliffe win for "Every Brilliant Thing," I am happy his nomination recognizes the fine adult actor he has become.  But I think Nathan Lane is going to take it.  Is he the greatest Willy Loman?  Far from it. He works hard in the role, and he was willing to take it on, so I think he is going to win his third TONY award.

                                                                               Best Leading Actress In A Play                                                                                                                     Rose Byrne, "Fallen Angels"                                                                                                                         Carrie Coon, "Bug"                                                                                                                                       Susannah Flood, "Liberation"                                                                                                                       Lesley Manville, "Oedipus"                                                                                                                           Kelli O'Hara, "Fallen Angels"

                                                                               This is a very weak category; not a stellar one in the bunch.  Will the two "Fallen Angels" cancel each other out?  Kelli O'Hara is now trying to do what Celia Keenan- Bolger did and transition to non-musical theater.  I don't think she will be as successful. More "Oedipus;" does anybody care?  Carrie WHO???????????  The inevitability is Susannah Flood in "Liberation."  This category just leaves me cold, darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   

                                                                                   Best Featured Actor In A Play                                                                                                                       Christopher Abbott, "Death Of A Salesman"                                                                                                 Danny Burstein, "Marjorie Prime                                                                                                                  Brandon J. Dirden, "Waiting For Godot"                                                                                                     Alden Ehrenreich, "Becky Shaw"                                                                                                                Ruben Santiago-Hudson, "Joe Turner's Come And                                                                                      Gone"                                                                                                                                                            Richard Thomas, "The Balusters"

                                                                      

                                                                                    Definitely a more interesting category.  It is anyone's guess here.  Because I am expecting a sweep, I think Christopher Abbott will win for "Death Of A Salesman."  But should he?  I did not think his interpretation of Biff was correct.  Too unsympathetic and whiny.  Richard Thomas, ever since "The Little Foxes" has proved to be adept on Broadway, so I would not mind if he won for "The Balusters."  But he will not.  As I said I am expecting a 'Salesman' sweep!!!!!!!!!!!!!   

                                                                                      Best Featured Actress In A Play                                                                                                                    Betsy Aidem, "Liberation"                                                                                                                            Marylouise Burke, "The Balusters"                                                                                                              Aya Cash, "Giant"                                                                                                                                          Laurie Metcalf, "Death Of A Salesman"                                                                                                        June Squibb, "Marjorie Prime"

                                                                                       I have only two words to say here--Laurie Metcalf.  She is the best thing in "Death Of A Salesman" and is the engine that runs the show.  Acting wise, she blows everyone else off the stage!  What a pity June Squibb is up against her; at 96, how many chances does she have?  But if Laurie does not win, there will be an explosion here.  Sorry, June, but the TONY must really go to Laurie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

                                                                                           Best Direction Of A Play                                                                                                                               Nicholas Hytner, "Giant"                                                                                                                               Robert Icke, "Oedipus"                                                                                                                                 Kenny Leon, "The Balusters"                                                                                                                         Joe Mantello, "Death Of A Salesman"                                                                                                           Whitney White, "Liberation"

                                                                                            Again, a no brainer.  I may have disliked his conception, but I agree Joe Mantello should win for "Death Of A Salesman."  He is the only one with stature among the nominees, and his project was the best.  So, I am certain he will win.

                                                                                               Before wrapping up, let me summarize the Best Play Category.

                                                                                                Best Play-- SHOULD --"Liberation."  WILL--"Liberation."

                                                                                                 Best Revival Of A Play--SHOULD--"Death Of A Salesman."  WILL--"Death Of A Salesman."

                                                                                                 Best Leading Actor In A Play--SHOULD--Daniel Radcliffe in "Every Brilliant Thing."  WILL--Nathan Lane in "Death Of A Salesman."

                                                                                                  Best Leading Actress In A Play--SHOULD--Susannah Flood in "Liberation."  WILL--Susannah Flood, in "Liberation."    

                                                                                                   Best Featured Actor In A Play--SHOULD--Christopher Abbott in "Death Of A Salesman."  WILL--Christopher Abbott in "Death Of A Salesman."

                                                                                                   Best Featured Actress In A Play--SHOULD--Laurie Metcalf in "Death Of A Salesman."  WILL--Laurie Metcalf in "Death Of A Salesman.

                                                                                                    Best Direction Of A Play--SHOULD:  Joe Mantello for "Death Of A Salesman."  WILL--Joe Mantello for "Death Of A Salesman."

                                                                                                      Before wrapping up, let me say the play categories were harder to select as the contenders were not all equally strong.  Many SHOULDS I gave because I know they WILL win.

                                                                                                        So, girls, those are my predication for The TONY Awards. We will all find out Sunday, and I will be back on here Monday to "quarterback" the show.

                                                                                                       May all your TONY dreams come true!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!