THE MIRACLE WORKER returns to Broadway- Page 3

#50re: THE MIRACLE WORKER returns to Broadway

The Swank revival supposedly was tanked for two reasons. The reason quoted by the Weisslers is that the advance wasn't strong in NYC and that the production "needed work."

Others have said that Swank was simply in over her head - an actress without stage experience taking on a deceptively difficult emotionally and physically draining role.

I think the truth is probably somewhere in between. Swank at the time had one an Oscar but for a small, independent film. I imagine if she were to take on the part now - with two Oscars and a lot more visible star power - she would be a bigger draw.

The production apparently wasn't selling well, but there had been little marketing of the project in NYC (outside of the marquis being up at the Music Box Theatre) and the show had received only local press in its sole out of town try out city in North Carolina.

But the truth is - if you have a production without strong advance and a leading lady in way over her head - than it might be best to cut straws on a production at least partially funded by a regional theatre hoping to have a Broadway hit. The Weissler's loss was minimal.

Hopefully this production will fare better - its a piece that deserves a first rate revival.