I have to laugh at what seem to be all the shocked reviews about LND's book problems. I'm an admitted ALW fan, but his shows have never seemed to have the most cerebral plots. If I were critiquing a play I would absolutely slam a show for that. But to me the most important thing in a musical is the actual music. I've only just listened the CD for the first time, but my first impression is favorable.
And don't forget that musicals, especially with rise of Vegas one-acters and juke box shows, are being marketed to more of a crossover audience, whose first love may not be musicals. Sophisticated, erudite plots are not always palatable to the masses.
Obviously to repeat the fortunes of the most successful show in history is unrealistic. But I think LND will have a deservedly healthy future.
"TO LOVE ANOTHER PERSON IS TO SEE THE FACE OF GOD"- LES MISERABLES---
"THERE'S A SPECIAL KIND OF PEOPLE KNOWN AS SHOW PEOPLE... WE'RE BORN EVERY NIGHT AT HALF HOUR CALL!"--- CURTAINS