The vacuum created by a performer's absence leaves lots of room for questions, sure, but there seems to be an immediate jump to thinking the worst about a performer's character and talent that betrays a distinct lack of empathy.
Empathy?! What about empathy for the people who travel a long distance or spend a lot of money just to see her? Any empathy by notifying what is going on? And it matters little if she's billed above the title, even if patrons get their money back, there is a lot expenses and time associated with attending a Broadway show, on top of the ticket cost.
Maybe she should show some empathy by communicating why she decided not to show up for work. At this point, it is obvious that everyone knows except the audience.
And if they decide to keep the understudy go on for weeks, we have all the right in the world to speculate whatever we want, as no one from her end has communicated anything.
Listen, I don't take my clothes off for anyone, even if it is "artistic". - JANICE
For all we know, the producers might have pulled the plug on the show tonight (or tomorrow after the matinee). It's grosses were sagging into the danger zone, and Raven-Symone was brought in to try and give the box office a much-needed boost. Oh, well...
Blaxx, I don't know why Raven-Symone or her reps haven't put out word on what's going on and if the posts here were about frustration over not hearing news on why she's out, then I wouldn't have chimed in.
But again, from the hour her absence was first mentioned here, the posts here have been jibes at her and, sometimes Randolph's, expense. I've got to admit, the longer this goes on, the more understandable that tone becomes.
I know this isn't a support group. I just wish it were a bit less reflexively mean-spirited.
This role is hard, but there are people who could handle it. This would literally be a walk in the park for Adrienne Warren. It'd also probably do well in hands of Dan'yelle Williamson.
I would actually argue that the way that Adrienne Warren sang Lorell--The way, not neccesarily how it's written--is just as hard as Deloris. Lorell gets looked over frequently for how demanding of a role it can be.
I totally agree that Raven should have a stand-by for the role of Delores. Most TV Actors are not used to the grueling schedule of doing 8 shows a week especially in that role. I hope she is well and back in the habit soon.
There is nothing in the world better than Live Theater.
If she's been brought in for her "name" (which I just don't think is impressive -- but I'm old) then a STAND BY (although I think you mean alternate) wouldn't help matters -- people would be pissed they bought tix for the wrong performance.
She's been out too long with no info given forth -- if she's truly ill, most people will forgive, except those that have already been dissappointed (which amounts to a LOT of folks already).
If we're not having fun, then why are we doing it?
These are DISCUSSION boards, not mutual admiration boards. Discussion only occurs when we are willing to hear what others are thinking, regardless of whether it is alignment to our own thoughts.