Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/18/2003 09:06 AM PST

Hey BK, that is funny that after having everyone write about fast food that you ran out to get some. This happens to me all the time. I have this one friend who goes out to lunch every friday. Well whenever I ask him friday morning what that day's food will be I end up obcessing over it the rest of the day until by saturday night i have to have it. This happens often :)

Posted by Jennifer @ 06/18/2003 09:10 AM PST

But I thought I was the contrary one?

Posted by Mary @ 06/18/2003 09:11 AM PST

Happy Birthday, Kerry!

Dear Mary, your status is intact!

General Question:

Has "The Apple Tree" ever been issued on CD?????????

If not, does anyone know why not?

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/18/2003 09:50 AM PST

DR Ron,

Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! You have answered my question, thus breaking the prime rule regarding 'Ask BK Day' questions!

Posted by Quite Contrary @ 06/18/2003 10:01 AM PST

Ron - yes the Apple Tree is on CD. I've had it for a few years now.

Ask BK - When does one become ours and how does one become someone elses?

Posted by Matthew @ 06/18/2003 10:02 AM PST

Ask BK Day Question: The overture on the original cast album of "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever" is a very lushly orchestrated piece, with what sounds to be a generous chorus.

Was the overture done this way exclusively for the album, or did they have a chorus at each performance? Do you think the orchestra was enhanced for the overture (or, indeed, for the entire recording)? Also, was the theatrical overture really this long (6-plus minutes)?

An inquiring mind wants to know!

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/18/2003 10:02 AM PST

But, my DR Quite Contrary, you never "asked" a question. You merely made a statement, which I confirmed.

Had I known you wanted BK to reassure you, I'd have kept my yap shut!

: )

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/18/2003 10:04 AM PST

For Ask BK Day---

I recently read that prior to writing the SMILE score with Howard Ashman, Marvin Hamlisch wrote another score for this project with the late Carolyn Leigh. Are you aware of this and if so have you heard any of the score with the Leigh lyrics? Was any of the music the same in both versions? Do you think that the show would have been better received if the original lyrics were used?

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 06/18/2003 10:22 AM PST

Hello All - and a BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Kerry!

I know you are all dying to know how Cheap Trick was last night. I must say I was rather impressed with their performance - he hasn't lost his voice at all, and the band was pretty tight. All in all, a very good time - and free to boot! I will be seeing Def Leppard on Friday, and hopefully they will be as good as Cheap Trick.

BK - I didn't realize that one could actually post a review of the books on Amazon. I posted my review of both Benjamin Kritzer and Kritzerland today. There are some really great reviews posted. My question for you today: Benjamin Kritzer must be a movie - how does that ball get rolling? Do you have to send the book to studios, or producers, or what?

Posted by JB aka JK @ 06/18/2003 10:35 AM PST

Matthew: THANK YOU! I should have checked Footlight Records before asking, I suppose. I'd been to Amazon.com and I've searched eBay for a while and nothing has ever turned up. Sure as snuff, though, Footlight has it!

Question for Bruce (not Ask BK):

Who put the "bing" in the walla-walla-bing-bang?

For Ask BK Why was Sing-Sing prison called "Sing-Sing"? Is it because they only sentenced squealing rats to serve time there? Was/is singing allowed at Sing-Sing?

In my CD player: cast recordings for "A Chorus Line", "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever," "Purlie."

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/18/2003 10:53 AM PST

Dear BK: I don't know if you've heard of it, but there is a restaurant called the French Laundry, located in Yountville, Ca. The food there is supposed to be absolutely fabulous, but it's not the sort of place where you go for a "meal" as much as for an "experience." An "experience" can run to over twenty courses (each course only a few bites each), and last for three or four hours. The price tag on this kind of "experience" is pretty hefty, of course.

My question is, would you ever feel comfortable having such a dining "experience," and why or why not?

Posted by S. Woody White @ 06/18/2003 11:08 AM PST

Hmmmm...this isn't answering the question, I hope...but the "experience" in question sounds to me like a Tapas bar, only involving a second mortgage.

JB/JK: Thanks for the report on Cheap Trick! I was *dying*!

Posted by Lulu @ 06/18/2003 11:18 AM PST

I've never done a cheap trick in my life.

Posted by The late Doug Henning @ 06/18/2003 11:51 AM PST

I just want to make it perfectly clear, I AM NOT A CHEAP TRICK.

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 11:57 AM PST

Yes, td, but are you easy?

Posted by TCB @ 06/18/2003 12:16 PM PST

No, you're thinking of me.

Posted by Keith Carradine @ 06/18/2003 12:18 PM PST

You people are so weird!

Posted by Anna Nicole Smith @ 06/18/2003 12:22 PM PST

Happy Birthday, Kerry!!!

Posted by TCB @ 06/18/2003 12:29 PM PST

Now for the first time, it can be revealed. The shocking facts about what happened that night. Based on the sworn testimony of the miserable souls who survived the ordeal.

Ladies and gentlemen, can your heart stand the shocking facts about GRAVEROBBERS FROM OUTER SPACE?!!!!

Posted by Kreskin @ 06/18/2003 12:36 PM PST

Happy Birthday Miss Kerry Butler

No questions from me today, just checking in.

Posted by Ben @ 06/18/2003 12:41 PM PST

I can't think of a question today.

Dear Reader my mom and I just got back from the zoo where we saw the zoo keeper feed the bats. That was really neat.

Now I'm sitting here eating gazpasta. It's quite tasty.

Posted by Sandra @ 06/18/2003 12:55 PM PST

How rude! A bunch of humans were standing around watching us eat lunch!

And we had such an ordeal last night. We were on our way to a party, and Battina got caught in some bimbo's hair!

Posted by The Bats @ 06/18/2003 01:07 PM PST

Seriously, you guys are really weird!

Posted by Michael Jackson @ 06/18/2003 01:09 PM PST

Happy Birthday Kerry Butler!

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/18/2003 01:15 PM PST

DR Sandra-
Please return to career exploitation class for another semester. Most of us could use a good laugh every day.

P.S. Did the class help you choose a career goal?

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 06/18/2003 01:17 PM PST

How many Kerrys do we have on this board?

Posted by Huh? @ 06/18/2003 01:21 PM PST

Sandra's Career Exploitation class has led her to the field of zoology. Weren't you paying attention? ;-)

Sandra, if you're looking for research material, there's a lovely book called "If I Ran the Zoo". A famous doctor wrote it.

Come to think of it, you could just ask BK. He has been running a zoo for over a year now...

Posted by Dave @ 06/18/2003 01:23 PM PST

*Laughs so hard she spits out her gazpasta*

Posted by Sandra @ 06/18/2003 01:25 PM PST

Happy Birthday, Kerry!

For Ask BK Day: Have you ever gone to a show that you'd heard wonderful things about, really expected to love it, and come out disappointed beyond belief. Consequently, have you ever gone lackadaisically to a show, not expecting much at all, only for it to turn out to be far better than you ever dreamed? If yes to either of these, which shows were they?

For me, the disappointing show was THE WIZ. The surprised at how good it was show was OVER HERE!

Posted by Matt H. @ 06/18/2003 01:27 PM PST

My questions

When you appeared on any of the sitcoms that were "Filmed in front of a live studio audience" (as opposed to a dead one) (and weren't they really videotaped as opposed to done on film stock?)did the audience really go crazy with applause and all that hootering and hollering whenever a major character made an appearance? Or were these sounds done in the "sweetening" also with the laughter when a joke bombed or was just plan unfunny?

When you did the Doris Day Show did you know that you were also shooting a pilot episode?

When your worked with Paul Lynde was he as bitter as E! True Hollywood Story made him out to be?

Were you surprised when Richard Chamberlain came out of the closet or anyone who is in the biz already knew that he wasn't fooling anyone. Sort of like Kevin Spacey is today.

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/18/2003 01:27 PM PST

Happy Birthday, Kerry Butler!

For Ask BK Day:

What is this thing called love?*
Do you know the way to San Jose?
How do you solve a problem like Maria?
Why, God, why?
Where have all the flowers gone?
How are things in Glocca Morra?

...OK - I always seem to end up in a silly mood after a good run. Guess it must be the endorphins, and/or the slight delirium derived from a good sweat - or are those the same things?

*I remember seeing Michael Caine on the tonight show, and he "riffed" one night on song titles. It was fun to hear how just by changing the inflection of a song title, it would take on a totally new meaning. -And the English accent also helped.

I'll check back later with some real questions. In the meantime.. I smell Brats!

-no, not smelly kids, but Bratwursts! YUM!

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/18/2003 01:31 PM PST

OK - I have to ask...

What is the recipe for "gazpasta"? -Did I miss a previous post?

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/18/2003 01:34 PM PST

I'm pretty sure that "gazpasta" is cold floop.

Posted by Dave @ 06/18/2003 01:35 PM PST

Jose.. you are a witty man. I posted similar questions way back.. You can check them out by clicking on my name and scrolling, or just reading below LOL

1. What good is sitting alone in your room?
2. Why are there so many songs about rainbows and what's on the other side?
3. Why can't you behave?
4. Where or When?
5. Who can take a sunrise and sprinkle it with dew?
6. Why Can't the English learn how to speak?
7. Did you ever see a dream walking?
8. Where is love?
9. What's the matter with kids these days?
10. Does anyone still wear a hat?

11. How do you solve a problem like Maria?
12. What do the simplefolk do?
13. How many people does he need?
14. Is it a crime?
15. What could be better?
16. When did I fall in love?
17. a)What's playin at the Roxie?
b)What's in the Daily News and
c)What's happening all over?
18. Was I Wazir?
19. Where's my shoe?
20. Everybody's gotta be somewhere, but where? where? where?

Posted by Craig @ 06/18/2003 01:39 PM PST

Good guess, Dave, but floop is already cold.

Gazpasta is gazpacho with pasta. Our tomato plants have been producing lots of tomatoes, which are berries, by the way (BTW in internet lingo). So we mixed those berries with some other berries (bell peppers), a pepo (cucumber), a corm (onion), some leaves (parsley), some ground dehydrated berries (black pepper), a stem (celery), and mixed in some durham wheat food product (the pasta). Simple as that.

Posted by Sandra @ 06/18/2003 01:45 PM PST

Happy Birthday, Miss Kerry Butler!

Just in from our opening performance of TITANIC. We had about 50 blue-hairs in attendance, but we did get a standing ovation, which isn't bad for what was our first full run-through. Got another show in a couple of hours, so I'm going to have to run.

Thanks for re-posting my addresses yesterday. I look forward to the heaps of mail I'll be receiving. :-)

Posted by Jason @ 06/18/2003 02:09 PM PST

Oh, Jose...forgot to mention...I see Diggle's abs daily. Aren't you the jealous one? Hehehe... And no, Amanda isn't here with him. She's in Colorado doing FIDDLER and something else.

Posted by Jason @ 06/18/2003 02:13 PM PST

I'm sure many know the answer to this one, but I'll ask BK (and anyone else who just can't contain themselves, aw, hell, go ahead and answer):

Where is the song "My Brother Lived in San Fransisco" from? And how would I go about getting sheet music to it? It's lovely and wonderful and I would love to have it for classes/auditions/my own personal pleasure.

Posted by Anna @ 06/18/2003 02:21 PM PST

Oh my ears and whiskers, I must be brain-dead, as well as errant (not truant) and recalcitrant. *ahem*

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KERRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Whew. I think I strained something. Hope you have a great Natal Anniversary!!

Posted by Lulu @ 06/18/2003 02:26 PM PST

happy bday, kerry indeed. :)

Alas, I am questionless today. I have attained a temporary state of nirvana. I am one. I am whole and since the fast food poll I have eaten poutine twice making me happily gravyful ;)

Posted by Emily @ 06/18/2003 02:45 PM PST

I will not, will not, will not (that's three will nots) apologize for being e&t and also t&e for lo so long. Sorry. Ooops!

But before addressing other questions, I would like to ask the stunning and guapo BK if he might mention my name to the divine Sharon McKnight tomorrow and see if she recalls the Goddamn Fun we had last year. In time, all will be revealed.

Posted by William F. Orr @ 06/18/2003 02:47 PM PST

DR Anna: "My Brother Lived In San Francisco" is from Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens. The recording is available, and the show itself is a "revue" of AIDS-related songs and monologs.

I love the song too, and was fortunate to play for Emily Skinner a few times in concert. So, if you'd like the music... -I'm "on the road" right now, but I should have access it to it within a week or so.

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/18/2003 02:53 PM PST

And DR Jason: YES, I am jealous! ;-) -And please pass on all the best from the Wayside family, and tell him that Jan is getting married this weekend.

And DR Emily: Any chance poutine could be flash-frozen and overnighted? -Although, I do have a source for cheese-curds. Hmm...

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/18/2003 02:56 PM PST

I don't need an answer but why the hell do we always hurt the ones we love?
Guess how my life is going?
Thanks for posting Robert. (many of us do turn to the late posts before reading the new day).

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/18/2003 02:57 PM PST

Why is it that an actor's sexuality is discussed here and elsewhere as though it is essential he be "defined" by it?

Why hasn't Charlton Heston's sexuality been questioned? Or Jude Law's? Or Josh Harnett's?
Or Denzel Washington's? Or any one of hundreds of other actors working in film.

Is it because the few who do post about such things don't have any "dirt" on the others?

Why do we keep bringing up the Kevin Spacey issue as though it were some dirtly little secret the man was hiding unsuccessfully. Someone has posted her more than once that he KNOWS Spacey is gay. So what?!!! Why must it continue to be regurgitated? Spacey is not a member here. He ought to speak for himself...just as we can only speak for ourselves.

If it's not an issue for him, why is it an issue for anyone here?

Genuinely curious about folks who are so readily open about themselves but whose intimations seem to impose an ugly patina on others?

Posted by TinkyWink @ 06/18/2003 02:59 PM PST

DR Jose: Message received. Diggle says "hi."

Posted by Jason @ 06/18/2003 03:06 PM PST

I do enjoy the interviews with the stars I admire (or at least know a little about.) Thus I read the archived interviews here and also at Robert's personal site. A "chat" person I have never been. Just not my "thing" I guess. The personal correspondence between contributors to this site is amazing. It is indeed a WWW of friends who are generous, thoughtful and supportive when you are in need.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/18/2003 03:07 PM PST

Just noticed that you can't type WWW without the computer thinking it is an address!

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/18/2003 03:10 PM PST

Hey, Greymatter, wake up! I clicked on WWW of, and I was told there was not such site.

Must you link every www you see?

Posted by William F. Orr @ 06/18/2003 03:10 PM PST

Okay, I have a question for BK: What was all that about yesterday? Who is Rachael? Who is Robert? Who is it who's name we dare not speak? I realize that as a newcomer (ok, I can't use that excuse much longer) there is a lot of background and history that I am unfamiliar with, but the whole thing yesterday seemed to go on and on. And worst of all, no one seems to have made mention of it or responded to any of it, except you BK.

Posted by TCB @ 06/18/2003 03:13 PM PST

So how is the courting season William?

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/18/2003 03:14 PM PST

Wwwilliam F. Orr here.

Oh, Tom, I received the parcel today, and I've sent you e-mail gushing my thanks.

Posted by William F. Orr @ 06/18/2003 03:14 PM PST

Wwwhat?

Posted by Sandra @ 06/18/2003 03:18 PM PST

TCB,

I posted this early this morning, on yesterday's notes:

"The name of the site is Fynsworth Alley.

The named of the "banned" person is Robert Armin. (He not only reads these notes regularly, but posts regularly under different names, so the word "banned" is used loosely in this case.)

The other message boards referenced in the past few days have been sondheim.com and AllThatChat.

There, I said it and I'm glad. "

So you see, it pays to read the early notes....

Posted by Dave @ 06/18/2003 03:21 PM PST

DR Michael Shayne -- I am so sorry my query seems to be a tirade against your comments of a similar nature.

Your comments were not inflammatory to me...but something tickled my synapses and I was off and running...and was probably thinking more about a similar thread over at RATM and I got carried away.

I'm going to clean out my purple pocketbook now and think good thoughts.

Posted by TinkyWink @ 06/18/2003 03:22 PM PST

A flurry of OZ posts. Just got the email Bill. Thanks.
I shall try and contact you at WWW you.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/18/2003 03:22 PM PST

I'll answer right now, Tom. The name that people don't speak is the record label that I created a few years ago - the history of my break from that label is somewhat known and is covered in the Craig Brockman interview on broadwayworld. To make it short and sweet, I was treated quite poorly and people around these parts don't like to mention the name here for those reasons. Rachael is a more difficult matter, because it involves someone other than myself. Let's just say it's someone trying to cause trouble. I try not to respond to it if possible, but sometimes one can't help it.

And if you are inquiring about the Robert Armin thing, it's quite simple - Mr. Armin decided to host the chat room at my former label, and I was not comfortable with him posting here after that decision. I asked him if he would stop, and he respectfully honored my request, which I appreciated. I hope this clears it all up for you and the other newbies that didn't know and were confounded by it.

And Tinky-Wink, it's fine for you to express your opinion, and some may agree with it, but could you do it a bit less antagonistically please? We leave that sort of thing to other sites.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 03:23 PM PST

Check www mailsthatcrossin thepost.com

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/18/2003 03:23 PM PST

Ah, yes, court.

We went in on Friday XIII, everybody knowing full well that we couldn't have the trial this week. Joe and I sat there unneeded (but legally required to get up at early hours to be there), while the lawyers went to the judge's chambers to hammer out their schedules.

Oh, this week is out for our atty, the next for the other, and the part of the court is closed most of the month of July.

So we go in on July 28. Not to start the trial, actually, but just to yammer about schedules again.

The wheels of justice grind slow. So do my teeth.

Posted by William F. Orr @ 06/18/2003 03:24 PM PST

Collectors Choice Music site has 3 Joanie Sommers cd's on sale for just $9.88 each!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/18/2003 03:26 PM PST

DR Jason - congrats on the Maiden Voyage!

DR MBarnum asked yesterday if your friend Brian Kelly is indeed Flipper Brian Kelly....

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/18/2003 03:30 PM PST

Oh, and Dave and others: You keep using the word "banned" - it is not possible for me to "ban" someone from this site. Therefore, no one has been "banned". Someone was asked nicely not to post and that someone (Mr. Armin, who I like) respected and understood the wishes of the person asking.

Now, let's make love.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 03:30 PM PST

Oui, Miss Monroe.

Posted by Yves Montand @ 06/18/2003 03:30 PM PST

hmmm... José...

It's possible - although I think the gravy might not quite survive the freezing. :)

However - if anyone's really interested, St-Hubert (a Québecois chicken restaurant) sells its popular specialized poutine gravy in dehydrated form in little packages that you can buy in any supermarket.

I might be willing to start an underground poutine railroad to the southern republic :)

Posted by Emily @ 06/18/2003 03:31 PM PST

The Joanie CDs are great - they were put together by my friend Jim Ritz.

William F. Orr - I empathize totally with your legal entanglements.

William E. Lurie - these DAMN sour gummies are wreaking havoc with Eileen and Chet, do you hear me?

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 03:31 PM PST

Poutine for all! Vive la Poutine. Fed Ex everyone here Poutine and we will have a Poutine Party.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 03:33 PM PST

it appears that I have single handedly begun New France's re-colonization of North America!

And just in time for Saint-Jean-Baptiste day (Quebec's national holiday) on tuesday :)

Posted by a poutine princess @ 06/18/2003 03:35 PM PST

Is Poutine the same everywhere, or is there routine poutine? We can't have any routine poutine. Does Martin Sheen eat poutine?

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 03:38 PM PST

Speaking for myself, I care intensely about EVERYBODY'S sexuality. I want to know what they're doing, with whom, and what (if any) appliances are involved.

Pictures would be nice.

Posted by Lulu @ 06/18/2003 04:09 PM PST

I have it on good authority that not only Martin Sheen, but Danny Breen, Ellen Greene and Geoffrey Beene eat poutine.

But just on Halloween.

Posted by Lulu @ 06/18/2003 04:11 PM PST

Okay, I'll start - I'm having a torrid affair with my toaster oven.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 04:12 PM PST

Lulu - Martin Sheen, Danny Breen, Ellen Greene and Geoffrey Beene eating poutine on Halloween is obscene.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 04:13 PM PST

I wonder if lean cuisine or jimmy dean makes poutine because that would be too keen for the teen queen to be seen!

Posted by Craig @ 06/18/2003 04:23 PM PST

I love poutine.

Posted by Mr. Greenjeans @ 06/18/2003 04:29 PM PST

Since Mr. Mark Bakalor appears to be errant and truant, I'll say it:

You people are all crazy.

(Said very lovingly, of course!)

Posted by Jay @ 06/18/2003 04:31 PM PST

Well, BK, you managed to top my fling with the curling iron.

Thank you BK for clearing up some loose ends regarding yesterday. Yes, Dave, I read each and every posting (both early and late) which probably says a lot about my social life. However, I still was a bit confused (not having bought a scorecard, but I think I am pretty much up to speed now. Just knowing Robert Armin’s name didn’t do a thing for me until I was aware of his connection to BK. God, a year from now I am going to feel so smug when some newbie starts asking stupid questions.

Anyway, yesterday just seemed so out of character from the normal posting on this site. I am now a lot less confused. So, let’s move on.

DR Emily - I was afraid that your post regarding the gravy surviving the freezing was in response to BK suggesting we all make love. It brought a very interesting picture to mind.

Ben - The CD arrived today. Thanks a million.

Posted by TCB @ 06/18/2003 04:32 PM PST

Me, too.

Posted by Mean Joe Green @ 06/18/2003 04:32 PM PST

Dear Tinkydink:

Not offended. I was trying to be ever so tongue in cheek. Hard to see that when one attempts to write that way. I think there should be a font called tongue in cheek so when someone uses it then other people will know we (the users)weren't serious.

As for Mr. Chamberlain had the pleasure of meeting him when I was a stand in (ever so briefly) on a tv film called Race to the North Pole (I think that was name) After my brief brush with him people asked me that question and I said I didn't know (even though I did.)I was using Mr. Spacey as an example as there are other actors who face the same thing.

So dear BK you do not have to answer that question. Its a lets not go there kind of question it turned out to be. It was just I saw his book in Barnes and Noble and perused through and I though how could he not realize people suspected?

Posted by Michael Shayne. @ 06/18/2003 04:36 PM PST

DR Michael: I'm convinced that Liberace believed his fans never knew!

So, there is a level of burying the head in the sand that goes on both ways, it seems, and all because performers worry they'll lose an audience, and audience members worry they won't be able to admit they like someone's talent.

It's all so silly.

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/18/2003 04:50 PM PST

In the all-food version of Les Miz, Poutine would sing On My Own.

Joseph L. Breen once tried to censor Poutine.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 04:53 PM PST

Bruce,

How am I causing trouble? I said all of one word regarding your obnoxious notes of yesterday -- "Whatever".

Posted by Rachael @ 06/18/2003 04:59 PM PST

"Rachael" - really, you don't want to go there. If you find my notes "obnoxious" I've got a swell idea for you - don't read 'em, don't visit the site (this seems to be impossible for you), don't you give us another thought. Really. We won't miss you, and you won't miss us and the world will be a better and brighter place.

Whatever.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 05:02 PM PST

Dear TinkyDink,

It troubles me that you are still so uncomfortable with the subject of sexuality. I understand the trauma involved with being outed by members of the religious right, but you must get past it. Honestly, I was totally shocked by the announcement. Whenever the rumors started about a certain “children’s television personality”, I really thought they were talking about Fred Rogers. Your name never crossed my mind.

Now, putting that aside, am I surprised by Richard Chamberlain coming out of the closet? No, only that there was anyone left that he could come out to. Was I surprised about Rock Hudson? Tommy Tune? Elton John? Nathan Lane? Personally, I have never met Kevin Spacey, so I can only wonder. But, remember you are the only one to call it “his dirty little secret. Most of the time, the “Is He, Or Isn’t He” game isn’t meant to be degrading or demeaning to anyone, particularly when those playing the game are as open-minded and caring as the group on this site.

So, please Tink, if I may call you that, relax, smile, and take the comments in the same spirit as they were offered.

Posted by TCB @ 06/18/2003 05:03 PM PST

WEL wrote:
"I recently read that prior to writing the SMILE score with Howard Ashman, Marvin Hamlisch wrote another score for this project with the late Carolyn Leigh. Are you aware of this and if so have you heard any of the score with the Leigh lyrics? Was any of the music the same in both versions? Do you think that the show would have been better received if the original lyrics were used?"

Thanks to Hamlisch turning up on so many talk shows, I remember him singing a number he'd written for Smile with Carolyn Leigh. It began "I know that I should like classical music" and was, like the film, hysterically funny.

My belief is, after the success of Little Shop, Howard Ashman wanted to show the world he could write a more serious work. But teen beauty pageants are best not taken too seriously (Drop Dead Gorgeous and Smile are funny films that mock them.) So, I do think it would have been better received had Carolyn Leigh lived to complete it.

Posted by Noel @ 06/18/2003 05:15 PM PST

You know, as long as we're outing people, how many of you dear readers would like me to out "Rachael" because boy am I ready to. Let's have a vote, shall we?

I am feeling quite feisty now and perhaps if I had me some poutine I wouldn't be quite so feisty.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 05:17 PM PST

What, did everyone suddenly go on a mass poutine break?

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 05:39 PM PST

Oh, did I poutine?

I beg your pardon. I'm SO embarrassed.

Are you still feeling feisty?

CLEAR THE AIR! (no refernce intended to the poutine)

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/18/2003 06:14 PM PST

Actually, I hear they're doing a new version of the J.M. Barrie classic in Canada - Poutine Pan.

We were having such a splendidly splendid rally and then "Rachael" had to come in here and poutine all over everything. But, we shall overcome. We shall post until the poutines come home. Let's get some late-night postin' goin' on. For example, I am wearing jeans and a Kritzerland t-shirt (clean, not yesterday's)

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 06:45 PM PST

Not cheap or EASY! But, you know Lulu, every since Babs did her Symphony for Voice and Appliances, I've had a yen for my tea kettle.
TinkyWink, this is the month of JUNE, in the year of 2003; in other words, this is GAY PRIDE MONTH and talking about one's GAY or NON-GAY sexuality should be a healthy, not negative, topic of discussion in this lovely month. Now whether or not the aforementioned Kevin Spacey sleeps with his afghan or sleeps with another man really doesn't interest me - as long as he continues to deliver interesting and active acting choices on stage or on film. If one is uncormfortable with the fact that Kevin might just be sharing his bed with another man, well. . .gossip mongers do gossip, but, unless (or until) Mr. Spacey decides to make an issue of it, that is his PERSONAL life as well as his PERSONAL LIFE CHOICE.
On another board, much has been made of Richard Chamberlain's decision to come out as he approaches seventy - - well, as far as I'm concerned, if it has taken him that long to make the decision to come out publicly, then I respect the fact that he has obviously put a great deal of thought into this decision. But, here at HHW, we are all FIGS, and we are proud! That is why this is the jiggiest site on the internet.

As for ASK BK DAY Question:
You have been granted the opportunity to record these singers, which one song would each of them perform for you?
1. Bernadette Peters
2. Brian Stokes Mitchell
3. Nathan Lane
4. Dame Julie Andrews
5. Bobby Darin
6. Billie Holliday
7. Barbra Streisand

Now I shall return to being a non-cheap, none-too-easy fig.

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 06:49 PM PST

I'm wearing red and blue plaid boxers, a black v-necked tee-shirt and an Alice Ripley baseball cap. . .

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 06:51 PM PST

ooops! I forgot to extend my best wishes to Ms. Kerry Butler upon her natal day!

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 06:52 PM PST

BK--Don't you think that the character Poutine would be better off singing "I Dreamed a Dream?"

Since we're having another rally, I am wearing a blue shirt with a Japanese god flying on a dragon on it, and poutine, I mean, jean shorts.

Happy b-day to Kerry Butler!

Question of the day--when Bernadette leaves Gypsy, who would you like to see replace her?

Posted by Maya @ 06/18/2003 07:16 PM PST

Gee, all this talk about poutine while I was away from my computer :(

Emily is right. They do sell the gravy. But you still need the cheese curds. I wonder if there is any place that ships the cheese.

Everyone should try poutine.

I've actually been craving it for a few days now.

Posted by Jennifer @ 06/18/2003 07:46 PM PST

Another point of clarification for BK:

Although I used the word "banned", you will also note that I put it in quotes, indicating that I was referencing someone else's use of the word. In fact, here is what I wrote:

"The named of the "banned" person is Robert Armin. (He not only reads these notes regularly, but posts regularly under different names, so the word "banned" is used loosely in this case.)"

So I made it clear that I understand that the word "banned" does not really apply.

And I did not start 'naming names' to antagonize anyone. I just got tired of the coy allusions to "the site that dare not speak its name" and the "interlopers" and all the other euphemisms. We are all adults here, and surely able to discuss these matters maturely, without having to resort to such childish code.

Likewise, Robert Armin should not have to post under silly nom de plumes, when most of us know darn well who is behind the mask.

Now I know that BK will undoubtedly take issue with all of my comments - as he usually does - but I would make a plea for maturity and mutual respect to reign here at HHW.

And Rachael...that means you can come out from behind the curtain, too. I, for one, would be glad to hear from you.

Posted by Dave @ 06/18/2003 07:58 PM PST

What I am gathering is that Rachael really isn't Rachael and that BK knows who she or he really is.

I think we all play fair here don't we? So all I can say if you don't like it you don'thave to come here. You are not forced to click onto this website.

Right? Of Course Right! (A Fiddler on the Roof reference)

Whatever

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/18/2003 08:11 PM PST

I want chocolate!

I want poutine!

-Oh, but definitely not combined...

-I will not go to 7-11
-I will not go to 7-11
-I will not go to 7-11....

-Whew, danger has passed...

Clothes check: light blue chambray button down shirt (does chambray come in anyting but light blue), khaki shorts, and Hanes... Nice easy evening here in Winchester. Watched Fame on NBC.. Hmmm.. Quite interesting.

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/18/2003 08:12 PM PST

Dear Reader Dave --- What are some of these names which Robert Armin posts under?

Posted by m @ 06/18/2003 08:14 PM PST

Also would like to comment on the Sandy Duncan situation. I reported it after reading the transscript of the interview and it was my interpretation of how I read it. I didn't realize how it was intended. Like I said in an earlier post there should be a "tongue in cheek font" so people would know that we were kdding when we are reading something on the internet.

I am sure Miss Duncan is a swell gal and I only asked BK what the problem could have been between the two of them because I have been in contact with many of people who have worked with Bruce and 99.99% of them all had wonderful things to say about working with him. I would find it hard that Bruce would hate anyone.

At most he might not like their work ethic and think they are a jerk because of it, but he would never hate someone.

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/18/2003 08:19 PM PST

Speaking of mature, I'm not cheap, I'm not easy, BUT I am mature (most of the time).

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 08:21 PM PST

Come on guys lets not go with the Robert Armin thing again.

Robert seems to be really a nice guy.

Besides if all of his "other names" were posted he could use others. So it really is pointless. I say lets move on from this.

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/18/2003 08:25 PM PST

But TD can be bought. :-)

Posted by MDS @ 06/18/2003 08:26 PM PST

BTW

I used to live in Montreal and I hated poutine. Tried it once and that was enough. But I did learn to eat my Francophone Fries with mayonaise.

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/18/2003 08:29 PM PST

No sign of Scarlet today.

Posted by someone else's wife @ 06/18/2003 08:34 PM PST

It's all very well for members of the entertainment industry to be out of the closet (or not) as they choose, but the very same issue can get downright nasty when the person involved is in politics.

A Congressman from the state of Florida is being badgered by a number of political activists because he doesn't want his sexuality discussed as part of a political campaign. Mark Foley, the Congressman involved, has indeed made very clear his belief that he finds the insistance of some that he come out of the closet "reprehensible" (his word). So, of course, those who want to force him out of the closet and make his sexuality an issue are turning his words around and demanding that he make clear why he finds his being gay "reprehensible," which of course wasn't what he said at all.

What amazes me is that the very people who would insist that sexuality should not be an issue in a campaign are the ones who are making an issue of Mr. Foley's sexuality.

Now, if they were debating whether or not Mr. Foley is a stud-muffin, regardless of his sexuality, that would be a different issue. In fact, I think we should change the entire subject, and debate who qualifies as a stud-muffin. Mr. Chamberlain certainly was a stud-muffin in his day, and in a very unusual way (a Maury Yeston reference!) so is Mr. Spacey. I have met Mr. Foley, and have to say he is not very stud-muffiny. Such is life.

Our own BK, of course, puts all other stud-muffins to shame. Which is as it should be.

Posted by S. Woody White @ 06/18/2003 08:35 PM PST

Dear Reader MDS, of course I can be bought! But, I do prefer dinner and a movie first. . .

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 08:36 PM PST

Subway and the dollar revival house?

Posted by MDS @ 06/18/2003 08:39 PM PST

Dave, you'll be happy to know that I don't take exception to ALL of your comments, just most of them. :) You will forgive me if I don't really care to hear the name of that company on MY website - yes, you will just have to forgive me. This has NOTHING to do with maturity or being an adult. I am not one who dwells on these things, but I am currently still dealing with the fallout in certain ways (all financial) and all I can say is you have no clue, no clue at all, so you'll just have to trust me on this one. Most of the Dear Readers have no problem understanding this, only you seem to have a problem understanding this. I won't discuss the RA situation anymore. At some point I may feel comfortable with it, but right now, with all that's going on, I most certainly do not. The bottom line is, if people are unhappy with some aspect of this site, they can choose not to come here. I have no problem with that. I will not be uncomfortable in any way, shape or form on my own website. Why should I be?

As to "Rachael" - yes, I know who it is and my advice to all incarnations of Rachael is to steer clear of this here site.

I am through discussing all this stuff. We have more important things to talk about, like poutine. Let's make love. Let's all remove our various and sundried pantaloons and prance around our various and sundried homes in the all-together. If that's not adult, I don't know what is.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 08:44 PM PST

Kerry, hope you had a great day and a very happy birthday.

Posted by Janw @ 06/18/2003 08:47 PM PST

Bruce --- if you are uncomfortable having a web site, why have one at all? Clearly you are uncomfortable having a website.

Posted by m @ 06/18/2003 08:49 PM PST

Michael,

I never said anyone didn't "play fair". I'm not even sure what that is intended to mean.

I merely suggested that for us to take part in the type of 'family' environment that BK is trying to foster here at HHW, people shouldn't have to hide behind a cloak of secrecy. Each of us should be free to post openly, provided our posts are not designed to offend. (I'm paraphrasing BK himself here.)

I agree with you, of course, that people can always post under pseudonyms, but they should not feel compelled to do so.

And I never said I didn't like it here. I enjoy the contributions of many of the DRs, and am glad to be able to take part.

Posted by Dave @ 06/18/2003 08:50 PM PST

And we're glad to have you here, Dave, and I mean that.

As to "m" - hit the road, Jack. I'm very comfy having a website, especially one that soon will be the most popular site on all the Internet and no amount of you trying to cause trouble will change that. What I'm not comfy with is YOU and your silly games. Last chance, pallie. I should, of course, take the advice of the Zookeeper and just not feed the animals and I will endeavor to do so.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 08:59 PM PST

BK-

Whatever happened to the 8 x 10 glossies from your trip to New York and especially the gathering at Joe Allen's? Is someone being errant and truant?

Posted by Arnold M. Brockman @ 06/18/2003 08:59 PM PST

Oh, and since I post all too rarely of late,

Happy Birthday, Kerry Butler!

I have just finished Kwitzerland. I am overjoyed at the prospect of a third volume, but I want it now!

I am saddened that there will not be a fourth volume, and I know I shall be even more saddened once I read the third volume. Ah, me! But the dashing and vivacious BK has been known to change his mind. Oh yes, the lovely and robust BK has been known to change his mind.

Which brings me to my Question for BK.

Is the Bar Mitzvah speech close to your own? I am especially interested in the final ichthyological reference.

Also, are the inhabitants of Kritzerland called the Kriss?

Posted by William F. Orr @ 06/18/2003 08:59 PM PST

OK BK here is my question:
If you could record that cute little Japanese duo Pink Lady would you and why?

Wearing khakis and a blue button down Old Navy shirt with cat hair all over it(just got back from the Humane Society).

Posted by MBarnum @ 06/18/2003 09:01 PM PST

As for Richard Chamberlain. I remember him from "Dr Kildare." He was the ONLY reason I watched. My young, adolescent body went into overdrive. He stated recently that he came from a very conservative upbringing which had him locked in his little closet. He alludes to the fact that early in his career, he was coming to terms with his sexuality when he became quite famous. This would have killed his career and drove him deeper into the closet.

In my early teens I did not want to accept the fact that I was gay. But one day, I looked at myself, and literally said, "This is who you are like it or not." I had to come out of the closet to myself before I came out to others. By doing so I have not met with a lot of rejection.

I guess I felt like a Wednesday night confession was in order.

ASK BK: Two things: At one time did you plan to produce a studio cast recording of "Sherry"? It seems to me it was in the works or it has been recorded. I know one of the Unsung Musicals has the title song on it.

When a performer is doing a solo show how are the royalties paid for the songs? Are they paid each time they are sung or is there a blanket amount that is contractually agreed upon?

Posted by Dennis Clancy @ 06/18/2003 09:02 PM PST

I'm quaking in my boots! LOL

Posted by m @ 06/18/2003 09:07 PM PST

Somebody, it must be Peter Lorre, has a Quaker product in their foot apparel! Usually, oatmeal is for breakfast, but as the commercial says, "It isn't just for breakfast anymore!"

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 09:09 PM PST

Don't feed the animals.

William F. Orr, don't forget to do an amazon review.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 09:10 PM PST

. . .or maybe Fritz Lang (not Loewe) has oatmeal in their shoes.

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 09:10 PM PST

Dear Reader MDS, try La Brasserie and The Egyptian. . .

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 09:12 PM PST

Dear Readers Jrand and Maya, watch your mailboxes. . .

Posted by td @ 06/18/2003 09:16 PM PST

WOAH - e&t all day and what an eyefull when I return. Guess I won't have to do any bedtime reading tonight. What the hell is poutine?

Posted by Matthew @ 06/18/2003 10:35 PM PST

I just got back from trying to find some poutine. I went to a local fast-food place, went up to the girl at the counter and said, "Poutine". She hit me.

As you may have noticed, we have a little situation here with an Uncouth Interloper. I have been debating how to handle this situation - I will not let this sort of childish behavior (which really has NOTHING to do with this site or me) mar our wonderful site. So, here's what I will ask all you Dear Readers to do - please don't feed the animals. If this person or his cronies continue to post, please ignore it completely. When I see them (the posts), I will remove them from the site because I don't want that negative childish crap cluttering up our excellent posts. Thank you and this too shall pass.

Posted by bk @ 06/18/2003 10:58 PM PST

Bravo, BK!

Posted by TCB @ 06/18/2003 11:22 PM PST

I have found that if I feed the stray cats in the neighborhood they stick around. If I don't feed them, they go find someone else to pester.

Posted by Laura @ 06/18/2003 11:58 PM PST

Growing up, I used to love a book called "If I Ran the Zoo" by Dr. Seuss. Bruce, you own this zoo and you can run it anyway you like. Another book I loved was "Put Me In the Zoo" by Robert Lopshire, and yes, I'm glad that I am in it. I think that we all are.

Posted by George @ 06/19/2003 12:08 AM PST

Oh, and let me be the first to wish a Happy Belated Birthday to Dear Kerry Butler!

Posted by George @ 06/19/2003 12:11 AM PST

Here's an innocent "Ask BK" question. I don't know if it's been asked before, but it's got some specific relevance now:

Why not make the IP addresses visible to all? Is that possible on this message board format?

I participate at other message boards, and although few of them are as civilized and pleasant as this one, there's never any space wasted on "who is really who" or "who said such a nasty thing?"

We could all still have our cute phony internet monikers -- but would anyone be silly enough to bother posting under multiple names, for whatever obnoxious reason, if everyone knew exactly what computer he was using to do so?

Just a thought.

Now, back to some legitimate controversy. I love Bernadette Peters, and I don't care who knows it. Forward all hate mail to my phony-named-e-mail address, you BITCHES.

Posted by Sigerson Holmes @ 06/19/2003 12:17 AM PST

I got word last night from a friend who does work for the studios that FOX is prparing a dvd for release later this year of CALL ME MADAM with Ethel Merman
Marvelous film that hasn't been on tv for about thrity years. Fox is also preparing tons more oldies for dVD ncluding I was a Male war Bride, Cheaper by the Dozen, Diary of Anne Frank and The Black Swan.

Posted by Joe Caporiccio @ 06/19/2003 04:11 AM PST

Thanks, td!

Go to sleep and see what happens??!!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/19/2003 05:15 AM PST

Sleep! Sleep! as Neil Young once said, "Rust never sleeps."

(I don't know what he was talking about, and if anyone would care to enlighten me, please do).

Posted by td @ 06/19/2003 05:49 AM PST

Aw, man...like, you're so into the whole "linear thought" thing, man...that's like, so NOT what the cosmos are all about. Sometimes you just have to let life kind of like, FLOW within you and without you, man...

Posted by Neil Young @ 06/19/2003 06:17 AM PST

And speaking of new DVD releases, ELAINE STRITCH AT LIBERTY will be out later in the year. No dates announced yet.

In regards to Richard Chamberlain, while it is nice that he confirmed what most of us knew it is none of our business. What bugs me is actors who announce "I play a gay character on television/in a movie but I'm really straight". Have you ever heard someone say "I play a straight character on television/in a movie but I'm really gay"?

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 06/19/2003 06:23 AM PST

Boy, I really hope that's true about CALL ME MADAM. Even if the film dropped "Washington Square Dance" and used "International Rag" instead, I still love the film.

I saw a summer stock tour with Gretchyn Wyler back in the 1960s (all references to Harry Truman were updated to Lyndon Johnson references) and thought the show was a lot of fun and also fell in love with the score. Still amazes me, though, that CALL ME MADAM's score won the Tony over GUYS AND DOLLS.

Posted by Matt H. @ 06/19/2003 06:36 AM PST

"Haste makes waste" Kerry, I did wish you a happy birthday-just can't spell my own name. Janw was me.

Posted by Jane @ 06/19/2003 06:56 AM PST

If BK feels the need to censor posts, then that is his prerogative. But it really is sad. Honestly.

Just two days ago, BK wrote:

"Since that time, I have not removed any posts ever, because even when uncouth interlopers showed up and tried to cause problems, we all just dealt with it in our own way and eventually it all calmed down and was fine."

This seems like the mature way to handle such matters. So why the reversal?

Posted by Dave @ 06/19/2003 07:14 AM PST

Since this post is being posted on the Wednesday notes I won't consider this a belated Birthday greeting.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO KERRY BUTLER.

My favorite Checkerboard Chick.

Posted by Arnold M. Brockman @ 06/19/2003 07:32 AM PST

Personally, I feel that BK is the host of this party, and I am grateful to be a guest. As host, BK sets the guidelines for the party and I have a choice to follow the guidelines, or leave the party. He also has the right to ask rude and disruptive guests to leave and not return.

What is so difficult about that concept? Why would anyone want to stay at a party where they weren't welcome? But, as BK said, if they continue to stay and to try to annoy everyone, it is better just to ignore their presence rather than allowing them to ruin eveyone else's good time.

Posted by TCB @ 06/19/2003 08:14 AM PST

Ain't it the truth?

Posted by Margo Channing @ 06/19/2003 08:19 AM PST

TCB, I agree with you, but would add that BK has not asked people to leave and not return because they were rude, disruptive, offensive or profane. He has asked people to leave because of the company they keep. There is a difference.

Of course, it is still his right to run his website any way he chooses.

Posted by Dave @ 06/19/2003 08:42 AM PST

Hey, folks, lay off BK -- especially on the subject of me. I fully understand why BK politely asked me not to post here and I have consented to his wishes. I have only returned on rare occasions when someone has made a comment about me which I felt needed a response. And although Dave is a good buddy, he is wrong when he suggests that I frequently post here under pseudonyms. Yes, in jest, I have made a few comic comments under obviously comic names, but I can honestly tell you that in almost EVERY instance that someone has suggested that an uncouth interloper is me -- it AIN'T me. Paranoia runs rampant around here sometimes, but my respect for BK would not permit me to rampage through his "home" in such a way. When I do post, it should be clear, I do not hesitate to use my FULL name. Pseudonyms are the refuge of cowards and I am most certainly not a coward with my thoughts and opinions. Now, that said, I will crawl back into my hole.

Posted by Robert Armin @ 06/19/2003 09:10 AM PST

Robert,

As you say, "I have made a few comic comments under obviously comic names", this is what I was referring to when I said that you have posted under other names. I hope I didn't suggest otherwise.

BK has written me privately to complain that he feels I am "goading" or "baiting" him. Let me assure everyone here that this is NOT true.

When I have expressed my view that it is sad that we feel the need to censor posts on this site, I meant exactly what I said. If someone read something else into that, then they were mistaken.

Posted by Dave @ 06/19/2003 09:28 AM PST

Robert,

As you say, "I have made a few comic comments under obviously comic names", this is what I was referring to when I said that you have posted under other names. I hope I didn't suggest otherwise.

BK has written me privately to complain that he feels I am "goading" or "baiting" him. Let me assure everyone here that this is NOT true.

When I have expressed my view that it is sad that we feel the need to censor posts on this site, I meant exactly what I said. If someone read something else into that, then they were mistaken.

Posted by Dave @ 06/19/2003 09:33 AM PST

Robert,

As you say, "I have made a few comic comments under obviously comic names", this is what I was referring to when I said that you have posted under other names. I hope I didn't suggest otherwise.

BK has written me privately to complain that he feels I am "goading" or "baiting" him. Let me assure everyone here that this is NOT true.

When I have expressed my view that it is sad that we feel the need to censor posts on this site, I meant exactly what I said. If someone read something else into that, then they were mistaken.

Posted by Dave @ 06/19/2003 09:41 AM PST