haines his way

03/18/2003:
"SO THE PUNDITS SAY"

Well, dear readers, the gardeners, who are usually here at eight have shown up at seven-thirty. I was sleeping peacefully and suddenly the sound of mowers jolted me into a waking state (California). I looked at the clock and expected to see eight, and yet what I saw was seven-thirty. That is too early to mow if you ask me. For example, what if someone is sleeping peacefully? Wouldn’t said mowing jolt someone into a waking state? Well, I’m in a fershluganah waking state and there is nothing to be done about it because this will go on for the next hour. Damn them, damn them all to hell.
The second of my blurbs is from Mr. Gary Owens (if you missed the first, do check yesterday’s notes). Here it is:
“Gott in Himmel it’s Bruce Kimmel! Everything Bruce writes is a fun adventure in nostalgia. I can identify with every chapter in Bruce’s new book, Kritzerland. I love it! How about Benjamin Kritzer’s thoughtful chapter on Pig Latin Explained? When Benjamin entered Louis Pasteur Jr. High, I remembered Louis’ last words – ‘Does this milk taste funny to you?’ Enjoy!”
I’m hoping to have Mr. Rupert Holmes’ blurb shortly and then I will be fully blurbed, as the pundits say. Do the pundits say that? Would somebody please call the pundits and check?
Over the weekend I watched the new special edition DVD of Winter Kills, a supremely strange late 70s film written and directed by William Richert (from the novel by Richard Condon). I’ve always been fond of this film and this presentation is wonderful. Lots of extras, including a retrospective documentary, and a commentary track from Mr. Richert, whose first non-documentary film this was. How he was able to get this cast and crew, and how the film was shut down no less than three times is a terrific story. The film itself hold up very well indeed, and the cast is great – it includes Jeff Bridges, Anthony Perkins, John Huston, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Boone. Mr. Richert has hilarious stories about all of them. Take a chance on this one if you haven’t seen it.
I also watched The Awful Truth of Mr. Leo McCarey, starring Mr. Cary Grant and Miss Irene Dunne. I’d never seen it, and I’m sure I would have liked it more if I’d seen it with an audience, but it’s one of those screwball comedies that’s a little too screwy for me. I enjoyed it, and I did laugh a few times, and the players are, as you’d expect, excellent, but it’s no Trouble in Paradise, or so say the pundits. Who are these pundits anyway and why are they saying these things?
Well, why don’t we all click on the Unseemly Button below before the pundits say we should.

As someone pointed out in yesterday’s notes, the Prologue of Kritzerland is now available to peruse at www.1stbooks.com. First you have to type in “Kritzerland” in the title search box, then on the title once that page comes up, then simply scroll down and you’ll find it, or so the pundits say. Damn these pundits, they always have something to say and they are always saying it. They are bold, these pundits are, and they will comment on anything no matter how trivial. And from this they make a fine living, they live the high life, they live high on the hog, they have a high time, they perceive themselves as high and mighty. Oh, well, let them pundit away whilst we go about our merry business.
I just had an Unseemly Computer Freeze, but thank goodness I’d just “saved”. This is only the second time this has happened – it normally only happens when I have AOL open and I’ve always thought it was an incompatibility with Windows XP. I see now that it isn’t. I had one count them one program open (writing these here notes) and suddenly, right after I’d saved, I could see it happening, everything started fragmenting – you could see everything, but it was like it was half there and half not. When this happens all you can do is power down and start up again. Does anyone have a clue or even a clew as to why this is happening. It gives me concern.
We had a rather surprising amount of correct answers to our trivia question. I thought it would be a really tough one, but not, apparently, for the likes of you dear readers. Here was the question:
A virtually forgotten comedy from the 1950s that had a quite successful run of 251 performances. It starred a beloved female film star from the 30s and 40s. Also starring was a gentleman who would shortly go on to create the lead in one of the all-time classic musical comedies. After that, he would go on to star in several other musicals, all flops of one kind or another. When the movie star left the show, she was replaced by another beloved movie star, who was then replaced by a beloved television star.
Name the virtually forgotten comedy, the beloved film star and her two replacements and the gentleman who would shortly go on to create the lead in one of the all-time classic musical comedies.
And the answers are:
Janus
Margaret Sullavan, Claudette Colbert and Imogene Coca
Robert Preston
Several people didn't get Imogene Coca but I made them High Winners anyway, just because I was so impressed that people got any of the answers. Our High Winners are William F. Orr, Arnold M. Brockman, MattH, Macchus - those who got all the answers, our Higher Winners, were Jrand52, JMK, Michael Shayne, Dennis Clancy and Steveg. And with the help of our electronic hat, our Highest Winner is Michael Shayne. Congratulations to one and all and also all and one.

Well, dear readers, I must take the day, I must do the things I do, I must meet with various and sundried people and make various and sundried phone calls. Today’s topic of discussion: What are you favorite Bob Fosse numbers? I’ll start – Magic to Do (one of the great opening numbers in terms of its original staging), Who’s Got the Pain?, Steam Heat, With You (the dance section), Money, Money, Rich Man’s Frug, and Crunchy Granola Suite. Your turn.

Replies: 99 Unseemly Comments

Trivia contest?
Posted by steveg @ 03/18/2003 08:16 AM PST

Have you ever considered requesting of your lawn service that they switch you to an afternoon slot?
Posted by Steve @ 03/18/2003 08:27 AM PST

Computer freeze usually happens when you eat your ice cream too fast.
Favorite Bob Fosse numbers? I have only seen ONE BF choreographed show live and in person...and that was DANCIN'. I enjoyed it all, but especially a number called (I think) "Hot August Night".
On film, "Once a Year Day" "Steam Heat" from THE PAJAMA GAME, the aforementioned "Who's Got the Pain" and "Shoeless Joe" from DAMN YANKEES, "My Personal Property" from SWEET CHARITY, and all the numbers in CABARET.
My favorite however is the finale of ALL THAT JAZZ...set to "Bye Bye Love."
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 08:31 AM PST

Mea culp, youa culpa, everyone a culpa. The answers and winners are now posted within the notes.
Posted by bk @ 03/18/2003 08:32 AM PST

Favorite Fosse number: Big Spender
Posted by steveg @ 03/18/2003 09:00 AM PST

Bleah-h-h-h-h-h-ugh!
Favorite film dances:
"Begin the Beguine" -- from "Broadway Melody of 1940"
Huh?
Wha ?
Fosse?
Never mind.
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 09:13 AM PST

Favorite Fosse number? ALL THAT JAZZ--the entire film.
OK, if I have to pick just one....maybe "Big Spender."
And if it's a number Fosse peformed,but not necessarily choreographed (lotsa ways to define "Fosse number"), it would be the challenge dance between Fosse and Tommy Rall (one of the great film dancers who deserves more renown, imho) in "My Sister Eileen."
Posted by Pam @ 03/18/2003 09:27 AM PST

Some information on Wicked in San Francisco via Playbill On-Line
Wicked Casting Announced for Pre-Bway Run in San Fran, May 28-June 29
By Kenneth Jones
18 Mar 2003
"So much happened in Oz before Dorothy came" is the way the San Francisco world premiere tryout run of Wicked is being explained.
Further casting for the new Stephen Schwartz musical about the early life of the Wicked Witch of the West — inspired by L. Frank Baum's "Oz" tales and Gregory Maguire's revisionist novel, "Wicked" — was announced March 7 in San Francisco. Performances play the Curran Theatre May 28-June 29. Tickets go on sale in April, on a date to be announced.
As previously known, Kristin Chenoweth (You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown) is Glinda and Idina Menzel (Rent) is Elphaba (the titular witch). Also confirmed are Robert Morse (of the original How to Succeed...) as the Wizard of Oz, Carole Shelley (late of Cabaret and remembered from the original Odd Couple) as Madame Morrible, Norbert Leo Butz (Thou Shalt Not, The Last 5 Years) as Fiyero and Kirk McDonald (Parade, The Boys From Syracuse) as Boq. The roles of Nessarose and Doctor Dillamand are still to be cast.
The company includes Ioana Alfonso, Stephanie J. Block, Ben Cameron, Cristy Candler, Kristoffer Cusick, Kathy Deitch, Melissa Fahn, Rhett George, Kristen Lee Gorski, Kisha Howard, Manuel Herrera, L.J. Jellison, Sean McCourt, Corrine McFadden, Mark Myars, Jan Neuberger, Walter Winston, ONeil, Andrew Palermo, Peter Samuel and Michael Seelbach.
Music and lyrics are by Schwartz, known for Godspell, Pippin, The Baker's Wife and collaborations on Rags, "Pocahontas" and "Prince of Egypt." The libretto, drawn from the novel by Gregory Maguire, is by Winnie Holzman, the writer known for her work on TV's "thirtysomething," "Once and Again" and "My So-Called Life."
Joe Mantello (Take Me Out, Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune) directs, with choreography by Wayne Cilento (Aida, The Who's Tommy).
"The untold story of the witches of Oz" takes place "long before Dorothy drops in," according to the cast announcement. "One, born with emerald green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. Wicked tells the story of their remarkable odyssey — how these two unlikeliest of friends become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch."
Producers are Marc Platt, Universal Pictures and David Stone. It's expected for Broadway in fall 2003.
Designers are Eugene Lee (set), Susan Hilferty (costume), Kenneth Posner (lighting) and Tony Meola (sound). Musical director is Stephen Oremus, with orchestrations by William David Brohn and dance arrangements by Jim Abbott.
Fosse: I love Steam Heat (PG), Two Lost Souls (DY), Somethin' Better than This (SC). I also love the dancing he does in Kiss Me Kate with Miss Carol Haney (pre-PG).
Posted by Ben @ 03/18/2003 09:38 AM PST

Those of you in the Los Angeles area: We hope to get a full report on the Reprise! mounting of She Loves Me, which, according to Playbill On-Line begins performances tonight.
Enquiring East Coast minds want to know.
Posted by Ben @ 03/18/2003 09:42 AM PST

Dear Reader Ben:
I see SHE LOVES ME tomorrow evening, and yes, I shall file a report on Thursday.
Posted by Jay @ 03/18/2003 09:59 AM PST

Where in tarnation IS everyone? And how could I forget to include Big Spender? The pundits would have included it and if it's good enough for the pundits it's good enough for me.
Posted by bk @ 03/18/2003 11:20 AM PST

Alas and alack -- another topic I'm ill-equipped to address, so I'll regretfully let it pass by.
I found out today that my very very first Haineshisway post occurred February 10, 2002. I discovered this here site when one lazy Sunday I decided to google that intriguing fellow who wrote and sang "I http://www.haineshisway.com/archives/00000502.html#moreWant to Eat Your Face."
Back in those salad days, Haineshisway typically had between 1-8 posts per day, each of them self-contained and strictly pertaining to the topic of the day as presented by BK.
Two days later, I was lucky enough to have the distinction of being one of the participants in the First Ever Message Board-like Conversation at Haineshisway (at least, that was what BK posted the next day). Said conversation was a result of my mention of the Burt Bacharach tune that opened the ABC Movie of the Week back in the early '70s. I remembered it was "a girl's name," but couldn't remember the name, and JMK posted that the name was Nikki, and we talked briefly about the book and TV-movie of "When Michael Calls..." and...oh, it was just lovely, really. Maybe you had to be there.
And just look at Haineshisway now! Why, if there are only 30-40 posts, BK angrily orders us up off our butt cheeks and threatens to bitch-slap us all from here to eternity. What a long way we've come!
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 11:21 AM PST

I have no idea what that link is doing in the middle of my post, or where the link leads. Honestly. I wouldn't click on it if I were you -- it just slipped in there quite on its own and thus is probably evil. What a very strange thing to have happened. It is perplexing and bemusing.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 11:23 AM PST

What a strange day.
Lots happening all around. Lots of Fosse to consider. I hadn't thought of MY SISTER EILEEN the movie until Lulu brought it up. It is a good number that builds and builds. Everyone in the movie sparkles except Betty Garrett, who just always drags everything down for me.
Sunshine followed by rain...that's a weather report for here in Indiana.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 11:23 AM PST

By the way, was I right or was I right? Even as I wrote about how BK bullies us into posting more, MORE, MORE!!!! he was indeed posting on that very subject. :)
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 11:25 AM PST

Jrand: I didn't post about My Sister Eileen. That was sharp-eyed Dear Reader Pam. :)
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 11:26 AM PST

Thanks for giving me credit, Lulu! I was kinda shy about correcting Dear Reader JRand...
But if you saw the thickness of my glasses, you would know that I'm anything BUT sharp-eyed!
Posted by Pam @ 03/18/2003 11:35 AM PST

You can imagine my embarrassment.
8-(
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 11:36 AM PST

I keep trying to figure out the wisdom of the producers of 'Janus.'
"Sullavan is leaving..who is available?"
"Well, Colbert will do it if she can always have the right side of her face upstage."
"Get her."
A few months later.
"Colbert wants out."
"Who can we get?"
"Oh, hell, hire Imogene Coca - we get her whole face for the same money."
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 11:39 AM PST

I'm late today... our internet went down at work just as I was about to comment on the Sondheim post at the end of yesterday's notes. It seems like they let everyone have a computer and internet access these days.
Despite the fact that all Fossee numbers look alike I do have a favorite: "The Uncle Sam Rag" from REDHEAD. Actually I like Fossee numbers as part of a show, but not complete evenings of nothing but unconnected Fossee numbers.
Last night was the latest Broadway By The Year concert at Town Hall. This time was 1939 (with one error: "You're Nearer" was not written for the 1939 stage "Too Many Girls" - it was added to the 1940 film version). Once again the highlights were two songs sung without amplification. You could understand every word and hear every note (Town Hall is not that big). I don't know why they mike the rest of the show to death with the singers holding the mikes so close it looks like they are eating black bananas and the band miked so loud you can hear the sax player breathe. Still with Darius de Hass, Amanda McBroom, Bryan Batt and others singing songs by Kern, Rodgers & Hart, Porter, Coward, et. al., it was a wonderful evening despite the amplification. And they did this one without drag queens imitating the original stars and without non-acting singers trying to do dialogue - two problems that they had with one of the concerts last year. Next is 1953 with Debbie Gravitte, Davis Gaines and others to be announced.
Posted by William E. Lurie @ 03/18/2003 11:40 AM PST

Dear Reader Pam, I have been corrected by experts. LOL...in fact, you may have to stand in line.
Apologies to you and thanks to Lulu.
A bio of Fosse said that in the rehearsals for the dance you mentioned, Fosse NEVER did the standing backflip because he was afraid of it. When they were blocking the routine in the studio and later for the camera he would just 'mark it.' The only time he ever did it was on the 'take' - and he just DID IT!!! Watch his smile when he comes up!
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 11:43 AM PST

Jrand: Don't be embarrassed. I hog so much of the board during the week that I'm surprised more posts haven't been mistakenly attributed to me. ;)
Pam: Well, I meant sharp-eyed in more of a metaphorical than a literal sense. :) I didn't even know Fosse was *in* My Sister Eileen. Haven't seen it since I was around 8, though I remember I loved it when I saw it. I especially liked the part where all the sailors follow Eileen home, though I didn't understand it (and also couldn't comprehend why my mother didn't want to answer my queries). ;)
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 11:49 AM PST

Betty Garrett made me laugh ONCE in that movie.
She and Janet Leigh were headed out on a date. Janet was ironing Betty's skirt and asked: "Which way to you want these pleats turned?"
Garrett replied: "Toward Mecca."
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 11:55 AM PST

Damn "to" = "do."
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 11:55 AM PST

Oh hey - although this great number of posts will make me fodder for 7th Inning Stretch - today I have my first preproduction meeting for SOUTH PACIFIC.
Meeting with the set designer at 5 pm today. Very exciting to see his sketches and talk about how it will work. I think I mentioned already that we bought all the costumes for the show from a professional tour. They had been constructed for a summer theatre in Houston. The whole show for $1000!! The costumes are beautiful, I love them all. Authentic military uniforms, hats, shoes, belts, and all the medals, etc. Nellie and Emile both have stunning costumes and Bloody Mary and Liat are beautiful! I will let everyone know once we get in production (June) and we have pictures up on the site.
In the meantime, you can visit our website at

http://pcpbarn.tripod.com
Lots of popups, but a nice picture of our Barn Theatre. Photo album is under contruction, but you can see a little of the site.
Dear Reader Jose sent me some great information from the Arena Stage Production he was a part of AND a hat that reads "South Pacific" in green on black! Lovely!
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 12:09 PM PST

Betty Garrett and Janet Leigh?
Hang on...I think the film I was reminiscing about earlier was My Friend Irma.
(Emily Litella voice): Never mind.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 12:15 PM PST

In trying to look it up just now (to decide just what it is that I'm remembering), I discovered a recipe for "My Sister Eileen's Roasted Beet Salad." The recipe contributor seems delightfully ignorant of the book, play, movie, musical, sitcom, etc.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 12:21 PM PST

Lulu, perhaps the beet salad lady just has a sister named Eileen....from whom she got the recipe.
Posted by Pam @ 03/18/2003 12:33 PM PST

-Did ya' ever have one of those amazingly lazy days where you just find yourself sitting, then lying down on the couch, watching the hours go by on the cable box display... well... -not that I would know of such things from personal experience... ;-)
As for Fosse numbers-
"Magic To Do" - and I still smile a big ole smile when I play through the score, and it says "Ben" and not "Leading Player" at the top of the number.
"Big Spender" - and I still like this after hearing the song butchered time and again at auditions.
"Steam Heat" - the choreographer for my high school shows would re-create this number in his sudio dance concerts.
Most of "All That Jazz" - I remembering being entranced by the whole movie when it came on late night TV when I was a teenager... and then imagine my surprise - and delight - when I saw the non-TV edited version. Can they do that on film?
Well, time for me to get off the couch...
Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 03/18/2003 12:37 PM PST

Oh! Jrand - Have a great time on the start of your journey to Bali H'ai!
Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 03/18/2003 12:38 PM PST

A bit like Rachmaninof's variations on a theme from Paganini (& ALW's variations too): Bob Fosse's "Variations On a Theme fom "Pajama Game".
I love all the Fosse routines.They just seem so "right" and usually exciting where they are placed in the shows.
Thanks Ben, appreciate the news on "Wicked". Is there any news around on "The Visit"?
Lulu: That roasted salad! Do you need to beat it eight to the bar?
I wonder if it should be "my roasted sister Eileen" and that it is served with fried green tomatos.
Posted by Tom Terrific & Manfred (The Wonder Dog) @ 03/18/2003 12:46 PM PST

I am not really awake yet. I clicked the wrong "me" name before! I don't think Manfred is awakwe either.
Posted by Tom from Oz @ 03/18/2003 12:47 PM PST

Make that"awake." Don't you hate it when we correct our own posts?
Posted by Tom from Oz @ 03/18/2003 12:49 PM PST

Ain't it the truth, Tom....
Thanks, Jose. I hope so!
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 12:56 PM PST

Lulu---
The sailors following Ruth home was from "My Sister Eileen" but you probably saw the (B&W) non-musical with Roz Russell and Janet Blair from the early 40s. Fosse was in the (color) musical re-make in the mid-50s with Betty Garrett (one of my favorite performers - someone has to defend her), Janet Leigh, Jack Lemmon and Bob Fosse. After WONDERFUL TOWN was such a hit, Columbia wanted to film it but the rights to the Bernstein-Comden-Green score would have cost Columbia a lot so since they already had the film rights to the play they just filmed it again with a new score. And while the movie score is not bad, it can't compare with the WONDERFUL TOWN score.
"My Friend Irma" was based on a popular radio series but for the two movie installments it was re-written for Martin and Lewis with Marie Wilson's Irma (from the radio series) and Diana Lynn's Jane as secondary characters despite the name of the film.
Posted by William E. Lurie @ 03/18/2003 12:59 PM PST

Pam: Oh, I'm sure that the lady has a sister Eileen, and she is faithfully presenting us with Her Sister Eileen's recipe for Roasted Beet Salad. That's what I thought was so funny! She's oblivious to the fact that there's a famous book, play, movie, musical, TV show, etc. entitled My Sister Eileen. (Plus: the idea of Roasted Beet Salad is just damn funny.)
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 12:59 PM PST

WEL: Thanks for clearing up that mystery! Now I'll be able to sleep tonight. You're right, of course...I must have seen the black and white Roz Russell version.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 01:01 PM PST

"After that, he would go on to star in several other musicals, all flops of one kind or another"
Robert Preston, after the smash hit The Music Man, did a little show called I Do, I Do. In what sense was it a flop?
My favorite Fosse number comes from my favorite musical: A Secretary Is Not a Toy from How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying
Posted by Noel @ 03/18/2003 01:01 PM PST

PS: Is this better, BK? 38 and counting...
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 01:04 PM PST

Oops! Foiled by Dear Reader Noel. Let's see if this one makes 40...
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 01:05 PM PST

That's what I'M talkin' about. We are very jiggy with these posts. Yes, Noel, I realized about I Do! I Do! after I wrote the question and never went back and corrected it. That said, the man did star in quite a few quite legendary flops.
Posted by bk @ 03/18/2003 01:39 PM PST

Are you saying WE TAKE THE TOWN was a flop?
Posted by Pancho Villa @ 03/18/2003 01:42 PM PST

I wonder if flop is anything like floop. Where is Dear Reader Sandra when you need her?
Posted by Jay @ 03/18/2003 01:44 PM PST

Eureka!
I now have in my possession an original 22 X 14 window card for "A Little Night Music" -- it's used, looks terrific and "Heaven...I'm in Heaven...".
I got it on eBay for the price of -- Gasp! - $5.50!!! I paid $5 for postage and the seller put $5.77 postage on the package. The poster was shipped beautifully between what looks like two sheets of drywall -- but is actually styrofoam covered on both sides with cardboard.
I know this will mean very little to some of you, and will sound a bit boastful to a few of you, and will be of absolutely no interest at all to most of you.
But...it's another post.
And it's all I had to give at the moment!
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 01:45 PM PST

RP: I can well understand your enthusiasm. Sounds like you got a great deal...use it in the best of health.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 02:18 PM PST

Favorite Fosse numbers:
stage: "Hot Honey Rag" from CHICAGO
"Beat Me Daddy Eight to the Bar" from BIG DEAL
"On the Right Track" from PIPPIN
film: "On Broadway" from ALL THAT JAZZ
"Shoeless Joe" from DAMN YANKEES
"There's Gotta Be Something Better Than This" from SWEET CHARITY
Fosse and Debbie Reynolds do a cute number in GIVE A GIRL A BREAK. I won't put it in the top three, but it was enjoyable.
Posted by Matt H. @ 03/18/2003 02:32 PM PST

Thank you, Lulu!!!!!
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 02:34 PM PST

Would anyone happen to have the lyrics to "Little Prince" by Alan Jay Lerner?
I've had an e-mail from a gent in Mexico who has asked for my help in getting the exact lyrics to the song.
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 02:36 PM PST

Lulu, does the following bring back any memories for you:
Little Lulu, Little Lulu,
With breakfast on her chin,
Always in and out of trouble,
But mostly always in.
Using Daddy’s necktie for the tail of your kite,
Using Mommy’s lipstick for the letters you write.
Though the clock strikes 7:30, it’s really after 10,
Looks like Lulu’s been repairing it again.
Though you’re wild as any Zulu and you’re just as hard to tame,
Little Lulu, we love you-lu, just the same, the same,
Little Lulu, we love you-lu, just the same...
I know, I know...you probably hate the song with a passion, but I think it's cute. And you're the first Lulu I think I've ever known of.
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 03:06 PM PST

RP: Oh, there are lots of us "Lulus" out there. Only most of us go by different names. :)
Posted by Lulu @ 03/18/2003 03:09 PM PST

We are the world, we are its Lulus....
Posted by Lulu L. LuLu @ 03/18/2003 03:55 PM PST

Well, Lulu's reminiscence of her first posting inspired me to look for MY first, and I found it: November 22nd, 2001. I gave everyone rather silly Thankskivings Day wishes (an unseemly overuse of the word "blog", not to mention an invocation of Bruce's "The Real A" phrase, "Like so much fish")
I also found when searching my own name that I have only posted to 157 (including today) of the 502 notes. I must be more diligent than that. That is less that 1/3 of the notes! And indeed when I started posting, 3 or 5 was the normal number of responses! How was that lovely little trip down memory lane? Who else has been here since fall of 2001?
I can not decide on my favorite Fosse number. That is like deciding on favorite Sondheim song. Undoable! I am a fan of Fosse, though generally only when he did it himself. Some try to imitate the style, and simply look ludicrous.
And don't even start me on Pippin done by a mediocre choreographer and not-quite dancers! Why do schools/community theaters think that they can do this show? A school at which I did Into the Woods just did a production of Pippin (without me) that had only one man in the cast: Pippin himself. And he is only a freshman in high school! It made the innuendoes and sexuality quite interesting, I am sure.
Posted by Hapgood @ 03/18/2003 04:02 PM PST

Yum..Fosse!
LIZA WITH A Z: Bye, Bye Blackbird, I Gotcha, Ring Them Bells
SWEET CHARITY: Rich Man's Frug, The Rhythm Of Life, I'm A Brass Band, Big Spender
PIPPIN: Almost everything, especially War, The War Room, The Trio, Magic To Do
ALL THAT JAZZ: Audition (On Broadway), Everything Old Is New Again
PJ GAME: Steam Heat
CABARET: Mein Herr, Money
CHICAGO: Cell Block Tango, All That Jazz, Razzle Dazzle, Both Reached For The Gun, Nowadays
LIZA AND GOLDIE TOGETHER: All That Jazz
Posted by KT @ 03/18/2003 04:06 PM PST

Likes and dislikes are so subjective, Bill. I am glad Betty Garrett has a fan in you...among many others, I am sure.... Just include me out..
Oh yes, KT - the Emmy-winning Liza With a Z. Liza came on in the red rubber mini skirt to sing and my dad broke his pool cue on the table. I love RING THEM BELLS...gosh I have that TV soundtrack somewhere. Wasn't it sponsored by Singer Sewing Machines?
Ron congrats on the window card. You are getting quite a collection there. Isn't EBAY wonderful? Those LITTLE PRINCE lyrics are difficult to find....haven't turned up in a search yet.
SP meeting went fine...I think I get sets I can use at a price I can afford!
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/18/2003 05:19 PM PST

Well, it's a searching kind of evening. I went back, like Hapgood, to find my first post. It happened on May 22, 2002 so I haven't been here a year yet. I asked a question on a Wednesday, note day number 198. I had been lurking for a while until I got the feel of the place and then jumped in and haven't regretted it since. I'll have to remember May 22nd and have my own pantaloon, pointy hat, ham and cheese and diet Coke celebration on that day.
KT: Yes! Bye, Bye Blackbird from Liza With A Z. What a great number.
Posted by Ben @ 03/18/2003 05:31 PM PST

Your presence is requested
Wrote little Johnny White.
But with this invitation -
There is a stipulation.
When you attend this party
You'll all be treated right.
But there's a wild and woolly woman
You boys can't invite!
Now you can bring Pearl
She's a darn nice girl.
But don't bring Lulu.
You can bring Rose
With the turned up nose.
But don't bring Lulu.
Lulu always wants to do
What we boys don't want her to.
When she struts her stuff around
London Bridge is falling down.
You can bring Kate
or Porterhouse steak.
But don't bring Lulu.
Lulu gets blue and she goes cuckoo
Like the clock upon the shelf.
She's the kind of smarty
Who breaks up every party.
Hulla-ba - LULU
Don't bring Lulu.
I'll bring her myself!
Posted by Pinky and her Playboys @ 03/18/2003 05:37 PM PST

Little Prince, from who know where,
(Was it a star? Was it a prayer?)
With every smile you clear the air so I can see.
Oh, Little Prince, don't take your smile away from me.
When you came my day was done,
And then your laugh turned on the sun.
Oh, Little Prince, now to my wonder and surprise:
All the hopes and dreams I lived among
When this heart of mine was wise and young
Shine for me again, Little Prince, in your eyes.
Posted by Alan Jay Lerner @ 03/18/2003 05:42 PM PST

Gee, I've only been posting since February 27th although I was lurking for several weeks before that. But, speaking of window cards and Liza Minnelli, I have the actual glossy cardboard standup poster of "Liza With A Z" from a Singer Sewing Machine store. I have never seen another in my life.
Posted by O.M. Time @ 03/18/2003 05:49 PM PST

This site is fun fun fun!
Posted by Bob @ 03/18/2003 06:00 PM PST

Yes Bob... it will be fun fun fun 'till your daddy takes your t-bird away.
Posted by The Beach Boys @ 03/18/2003 06:06 PM PST

Fun, fun, fun (that is three funs) is what we are. We are jiggy with fun. We are fun plus. We are fun sans boundaries. We are fun personified. We are fun on rye. We are fun on wry. We are fun with a side of ranch dressing. We are fun like so much fish. Hope you'll come and play, Bob.
Posted by bk @ 03/18/2003 06:07 PM PST

Alan Jay (td??) -- THANKS!
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 06:08 PM PST

Ron - I clicked on Alan Jay's signature, and all I got was "mail to: Heaven." Is that a nicer way of saying "go to Hades?"
Posted by td @ 03/18/2003 07:35 PM PST

Re: "My Sister Eileen" -- don't forget that the gifted Tommy Rall co-starred in this film as Janet Leigh's boyfriend.
Rall is best-remembered, I suppose, for being one of the Pontipee brothers in "Seven Brides For Seven Brothers" and one of the great dancers in "Kiss Me Kate." But others of you know his wonderful singing voice from "Milk and Honey."
There is so very little available about this talent!
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/18/2003 07:36 PM PST

http://www.dvdmg.com/westsidestoryse.shtml
now, would somebody, PLEASE explain to me WHY Colin Jacobson is allowed to review movies on dvd?
BK - you already know that I have a thing against C.J.; but each time at bat he seems to get more and more stupid and pompous.
Posted by td @ 03/18/2003 07:53 PM PST

I know I am a little late here, but the fosse numbers I liked were Mein Hair from Cabaret, Magic to Do from Pippin (loved those hands) and Big Spender from Sweet Charity.
Posted by Michael @ 03/18/2003 07:55 PM PST

ben posted about the Wicked musical and mention that the title character's name was Elphaba. Which is different from the film. Glinda tells old green and wicked to get out by saying "Rubbish, you have no powers here! Begone! Before someone drops a house on you!"
So isn't her name Rubbish?
Posted by Michael @ 03/18/2003 07:59 PM PST

ben posted about the Wicked musical and mention that the title character's name was Elphaba. Which is different from the film. Glinda tells old green and wicked to get out by saying "Rubbish, you have no powers here! Begone! Before someone drops a house on you!"
So isn't her name Rubbish?
Posted by Michael @ 03/18/2003 07:59 PM PST

I just read that butt cheek's sorry "review" of WSS. All Hainsies/Kimlets need to go there, read it, and then e-mail Mr. Jacobson and suggest to him that he learn how to write in the English language, that he learn how to proof, and that he ought to learn something about film if he's going to "review". It's so smarmy that I was actually yelling at my computer screen whilst reading it. And he gets these things free and in advance. He clearly has never seen the film in a theater, he keeps calling it "such an old film" - I'm sorry, an "old film" is Birth of a Nation or King Kong or something. SUCH an old film from 1961, which I'm quite certain was at least twenty years before his birth. Voice your displeasure, dear readers, and voice it loudly. This guy is a clam.
Posted by bk @ 03/18/2003 08:06 PM PST

Favorite Fosse:
A Snake in the Grass in THE LITTLE PRINCE
Posted by td @ 03/18/2003 08:40 PM PST

Well, td already mentioned one of my favorite Fosses. BESIDES Snake in the Grass, I would have to go with Steam Heat, Who's Got the Pain?, Once a Year Day, Rich Man's Frug, Mein Herr, From This Moment On, and If They Could See Me Now
Posted by Kerry @ 03/18/2003 09:30 PM PST

I really don't understand why DVD reviewers bother to review the film at all. Do they all aspire to be Pauline Kael? The ostensible purpose of a review is to raise awareness of a film and to let people who are debating whether or not to shell out the dollars to go see the movie know just what they would be getting for their money.
Somehow, I think this is a moot point for films like West Side Story and Lawrence of Arabia and The French Connection and all these other films that come out on DVD only to be trailed by lots of spotty-faced "DVD reviewers" (whoopty-doo, on the internet *everybody* is an expert) who insist on giving us their opinion of the artistic merits of the films in question.
DVD reviewers: NOBODY CARES WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT THE MOVIE. I am not going to decide whether or not to purchase Mildred Pierce based upon your opinion of it. Here's an idea: review the DVD. Review the transfer, the sound quality, the extras.
Don't even try to review the film. Or we'll have to hurt you. Capice?
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 02:23 AM PST

I love "Big Spender," "Hot Honey Rag" and "Cell Block Tango."
When I did an AIDS benefit a few years ago (one of many over the years), we had a choreographer (who lives in town) who was either in a national tour of A CHORUS LINE or was actually in the show on Broadway (I can't remember which). Anyway, the whole cast did "One" with the original Michael Bennett choreography and she recreated Fosse's "Steam Heat" number that she and a couple of other dancers did. They all were wonderful! I always loved watching them rehearse that number and then to see them perform it in front of an audience was thrilling.
Posted by George @ 03/19/2003 02:46 AM PST

Capice... Lulu, didn't Doris Day and Richard Harris star in that movie? *-D
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 04:20 AM PST

Jrand: Don't be silly. Tomatoes Capice is a yummy appetizer.
Tomatoes Capice: Roma tomatoes, fresh mozzarella & basil
leaves dressed with balsamic vinegar & olive oil.
Now, did Doris Day and Richard Harris ever star together in a yummy appetizer? I think not.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 04:53 AM PST

Who knows, Lulu?
It certainly wasn't much of a movie.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 05:12 AM PST

Anyone notice how few of our favorite Fosse numbers ended up in the musical, "Fosse?"
Posted by Noel @ 03/19/2003 05:19 AM PST

Ain't it the truth, Noel. I kept waiting for some of them to show up....in vain.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 06:00 AM PST

I'm even more surprised to find how few of those musical numbers wound up in "Star 80." I mean, okay, okay...they had Eric Roberts prancing around doing "Steam Heat," but that was it. Well, except for Mariel Hemingway doing that new version of "Big Spender" that gave a prominent role to her still-making-the-installments-on-'em breasts. But other than that? Nada.
Very disappointing.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 06:07 AM PST

It is too early in the morning to think about either of those people.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 06:09 AM PST

Jrand: When should I bring them up? Right at lunchtime? Surely not. Then you'd be bringing something else up, if you know what I mean.
Anyway, I *had* to mention both Eric Roberts and Mariel Hemingway today. It's right here in the contract.
Margaux is tomorrow.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 06:25 AM PST

Julia, too.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 06:26 AM PST

I can't understand why we would be asked to get upset because somebody wrote an ill-informed (and poorly written) review of a movie. This is the internet. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, and the right to express it.
And for the record, the review only refers to WSS as an "old movie" once. For many people, 42 years is a long time, and qualifies a movie to be considered "old".
But as to the review itself, be fair. He at least prefaces the whole thing by saying, in effect, "I don't like musicals", so those inclined to expect a balanced critique of the film are immediately put wise.
The criticisms that he makes are the same as those that many reviewers have made over the years: "Both Beymer and Wood simply seem very bland and unconvincing", "Wood ... makes one of the least convincing Latina women ever." The rest of his comments reflect the opinions of the many people who a) don't like musicals, or b) think that this story doesn't lend itself to musicalization. Valid opinions, and he is free to express them. We are likewise free to disagree.
So what's the problem?
Posted by Dave @ 03/19/2003 06:44 AM PST

Dave,
Bravo.
Posted by Steve @ 03/19/2003 06:54 AM PST

Yes, Dave, thank you so much for revealing to all of us just how much we're all being manipulated to "get upset" over a poorly written review. Every post of yours lately seems to exist solely to put us all wise to BK's Machiavellian wiles. Get over yourself. You are not a ray of light in the darkness. Most of the people here at haineshisway are unusually intelligent and self-aware. They don't need a self-appointed shepherd.
I for one have had a problem with the arrogance of self-styled "reviewers" for quite awhile now. I stand by my statement that it's ridiculous for people to bother to "review" classic films that have been around forever (and reviewed countless times by professionals). Sure, they have the right to spew their ill-formed and unwanted opinions all over the internet. And I have the right to make fun of them for doing so.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 07:05 AM PST

Lulu,
No comment.
Posted by Steve @ 03/19/2003 07:13 AM PST

Lulu,
Since I never even mentioned BK in my post, I don't know why you think anything I said was directed at him or his "Machiavellian wiles". I was simply expressing my opinion that any critic has the right to express their opinions on film, and we have the right to disagree. To get upset over it seems pointless, especially when there are so many more pressing issues to be upset about lately...
I happen to share your opinion that reviewers of DVDs of classic films are wasting ink by reviewing the film itself, but it's their time and their ink, so who am I to object?
But nowhere did I suggest that the dear readers at HHW are being "manipulated". As you rightly state, the good people who visit this site are far too intelligent for that.
Posted by Dave @ 03/19/2003 07:35 AM PST

I'm just curious: what site was that review on? If I hadn't read the link from here I would never have even seen it.
Posted by William E. Lurie @ 03/19/2003 07:37 AM PST

Lulu - don't feed the animals.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 07:38 AM PST

Jrand: You're absolutely right. I really do know better, but I suppose we all have occasional lapses.
Posted by Lulu @ 03/19/2003 07:42 AM PST

It is the DVD Movie Guide site, Bill. I check it now and then to find out about the quality of a DVD transfer or extras being offered.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 07:49 AM PST

Jrand52,
Putting aside the reviews of the "content" of DVDs, does this site generally offer informed reviews of the transfer, extras, etc.?
Posted by Dave @ 03/19/2003 08:09 AM PST

The "issue" here is not that everyone should have an opinion...it's that a "critic" should NOT BE REVIEWING anything about which he is NOT A SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT.
Otherwise, he's just an asshole running his yap.
We don't need their reviews. We see 'em coming from a mile away.
The point is not that this entity warns us right up front that he dislikes most musicals..the point is he doesn't let it stop him from displaying his IGNORANCE in full force and offering up an ill-informed review. That's like having a reviewer of rap do the latest review of an opera recording. Who cares if he doesn't like musicals. Have someone WHO DOES LIKE MUSICALS do the review.
D'UH!
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/19/2003 08:14 AM PST

David: I did notice that he offered some good observations about the quality of the transfer, etc. But, frankly, it meant little to me to have it coming from him.
And when a transfer is sparkling, we DO hear about it here from those who care to share their opinion. None of us, however, professes to be a professional critic.
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 03/19/2003 08:16 AM PST

You know, Dave, I look at so many different sites. I know that their quality reviews are very precise and seem to be accurate. But because my equipment is average, I really couldn't tell the difference between a B+ and an A-.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 08:17 AM PST

You know, Dave, I look at so many different sites. I know that their quality reviews are very precise and seem to be accurate. But because my equipment is average, I really couldn't tell the difference between a B+ and an A-. And my major reason for buying a DVD is usually content (the film itself or a specific performer or director) so unless it is given a very poor quality rating on a couple of sites, I buy it.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 08:19 AM PST

Dave - they are VERY complete and specific in their sound/picture/transfer ratings. Because my equipment is ordinary, I really couldn't tell the difference between a B+ and a A- anyway.
I usually buy a DVD because of a performer, director, or the film itself. Unless it is given a poor "quality" rating at a couple of sites, I usually buy it anyway.
I agree with Ron, that genre films should probably be reviewed by writers with a least a knowledge of the genre. Antipathy should probably rule a writer out...or ideally he should pass.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 08:25 AM PST

Dave - they are VERY complete and specific in their sound/picture/transfer ratings. Because my equipment is ordinary, I really couldn't tell the difference between a B+ and an A- anyway.
I usually buy a DVD because of a performer, director, or the film itself. Unless it is given a poor "quality" rating at a couple of sites, I usually buy it anyway.
I agree with Ron, that genre films should probably be reviewed by writers with a least a knowledge of the genre. Antipathy should probably rule a writer out...or ideally he should pass.
Posted by Jrand52 @ 03/19/2003 08:26 AM PST

I understand your point about requiring critics to be subject matter experts. Sadly, there are plenty of people taking home a paycheque for doing little more than spouting personal opinions, with precious little objective, formal evaluation of the piece being reviewed. It's the same all over. Perhaps the problem is in defining the credentials to be a critic. Seems like all you need is a word processor.
But I think the main focus of this review was to discuss the quality of the DVD itself, and not the content of the movie. (While there is a brief discussion of the film, the bulk of the review is to illuminate the reader about the special features, etc.) Perhaps we would all have been happier if he had confined his comments to those subjects, which he seems better qualified to judge.
BTW, my favourite part of the review was when he talked about how in transferring the stage production to film, the actors were still pitching their performance to the back of the house. Hilarious!
Posted by Dave @ 03/19/2003 08:36 AM PST

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