Haines His Way

Archives => Archive 2 => Topic started by: bk on January 11, 2005, 12:00:15 AM

Title: THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 12:00:15 AM
Well, you've read the notes, you know that you must put on your best sleuthing clothing and tell us your scenarios and deductions, and now it is time for you to post until the mystery cows come home.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 12:09:40 AM
Welcome six GUESTS.  We're solvin' a mystery and revivin' a show.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ann on January 11, 2005, 12:12:38 AM
Ann has caught up.  Ann is rather sleepy.  Ann is watching M*A*S*H and eating grapes.  Ann is tired of referring to herself in the third person.

Thank you all for the good health vibes.  Jane, no I'm not in pain...just mild discomfort.  I can hold out for surgery, just hoping the stupid thing doesn't decide to burst.
I think DR Elmore needs the vibes more than me...send them his way, everyone.  
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 12:14:36 AM
Breaking news: It's raining.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 12:35:01 AM
A short while back, there was a terrible "crack" in the canyon below our home...the only thing that would ordinarily follow a sound like that would be "Timmmberrr!"  At first I thought it was one of the pines on our lot and expected to hear it crashing onto a neighbour's roof.  But as our pines are pretty old, I would expect them to have fairly sturdy roots.

Thankfully, it wasn't one of our pines.  Though I knew it had done some damage somewhere, because I heard folks shouting,"Oh God, oh my God."  

I discovered the cause when I took Tewkes for a walk during a brief respite of rain (not brief enough...every time we go out when it slacks, it starts to downpour before we get back)

I saw my neighbours around the corner feverishly hovered over their water main hook-up.  I ask if anyone knew what the noise had been.  One of the sons answered, "A hundred foot pine on our back hill uprooted and tore out the water pipes."  Fortunately no one was hurt, though I'm sure they didn't appreciate my involuntary response of, "Oh, I was scared it was one of mine."  

It seems like this is the second tree that has fallen like this on their hill.  I remember a few years back one toppled in the road below the hill and the dented fence may still be there to prove it.  They might considered some serious tree trimming.  I might after tonight too...towering pines are nice, but are they worth the risk...?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 12:46:45 AM
TOTD#2:

I've been waiting for decades for Lady in the Dark to be revived.  I think it has a good score and an interesting book.  But, other than David Hyde Pierce as Russell Paxton, the photographer (and singer of "Tschaikowsky") I haven't any ideas on casting.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 01:00:12 AM
Best of vibes to our Los Angeles contingent.  May they all stay dry and safe!

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Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 01:11:12 AM
***** EEK ~ IT’S A LEEK ****

PART ONE

It was a dark and stormy night (isn’t it always)
When Hermione had a fright
Suffering from a disability
She had to use the main facility
But on the way she had a fall
And missed the railing on the wall.
She hit the floor and had a cut knee
Then screamed when she saw dead Lord Chutney!
But suddenly the girl within
Began to smile and with a grin
She said “You were just so detestable,
Now look, you’ve wound up like a vegetable,
All mangled and bloody and lying alone -
I  shan’t call for help, no I won’t use the phone.”

(to be continued)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 01:12:09 AM
***** EEK ~ IT’S A LEEK ****

PART TWO

Out in the garden sat dear old Cheltham,
Who hated his father – he used to belt him (!)
On this day he was oddly aloof
And kept peering up to the red tiled roof.
One could think he was acting suspicious
He was not normally quite so capricious;
Smiling and laughing, then looking quite serious
His mother suspected he was most delirious.
But deep in her heart, a secret did dwell
She swore on her husband that she would not tell.
She pained and she ached for the secret to share
And oh what a burden Lady Chutney did bear.
Had she spoken the words she dared not utter,
Or were here thoughts as golden as butter?
Then suddenly – “Oh, horror!” – the dear lady cried,
For deep in here soul she knew Lord C had died.

(to be continued)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 01:13:40 AM
***** EEK ~ IT’S A LEEK ****

PART THREE

Poor Lady C, she rang for the butler
An odd looking man – his name it was Culter.
He collected photos of dear Betty Grable
And showed them to the Squire who lived in the stable.
He loved wearing corsets of silk and of wire
Which he paraded in front of old Squire Meyer.
An hour ago they had both yelled “Oh, Gawd!”
For they had been discovered in drag by the Lord.
Lord C in his fury yelled “Cutler and Meyer,
I have no alternative, I now have to fire
You both from my employ, so leave this estate ~
Not once did you ask me to share in this date!
You could have worn corsets with all of my blessing,
Don’t tell my wife – but I’m into cross dressing.”
And then butler Cutler whispered to Meyer,
“Let’s take Lord C and make him perspire ~
A plan I have, and how my palm itches;
I’m going to squeeze him of all of his riches”

(to be continued)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 01:22:23 AM
***** EEK ~ IT’S A LEEK ****

PART FOUR

This morning ‘tis told that Cheltham’s young cousin
Had bought 13 leeks – one more than a dozen.
Willoughby by name, a sad, lowly sinner
He gave them to Hermione to cook for his dinner.
He was a lad that all folk detested,
His humour and presence was barely digested.
Dear, sweet Hermione had a plan to get rid
Of the boy so she looked for the poison she hid
In the attic behind a big wooden box;
Very carefully she unpicked the locks
And gathered the poison in her apron pocket
She ran down the stairs,
But the door did not lock it.
She mixed all the poison in with the leeks,
To eat such a stew would take days, maybe weeks.
Whilst humming and stirring and laughing a lot
She suddenly remembered what she had forgot …
“Merde!” she cried out as she ran up the stairs
And then locked the door, quite unawares
That dear old Lord C had wandered inside
And through gaps in the wall had wondrously espied
The secret ingredient mixed in with the stew
He was quite agog – oh what a to do!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 01:42:40 AM
***** EEK ~ IT’S A LEEK ****

FINALE  (aren’t you pleased!!!!)

He turned and he ran, he was sweaty and worried
He ran into Cutler and Meyer who hurried
Him off to a lane way all cobbled and dirty
They teased him, cajoled him and got rather flirty!
At first he was flattered by all the attention
But Cutler could not hesitate to mention
That this was the night when Lord C would retire
For good ~ as he gave the gun to the Squire.
A shot it rang out, a scream it was heard
And now the tale gets quite absurd.

Hermione had rushed outside for a peek
For she had discovered not a single leek
Was left in the pot on the stove where they stewed
And why was young Wallaby in such a good mood?

Outside Lady Chutney and Cheltham were crying
For they knew Lord C was definitely dying
If this was a video, we would have to pause it ~
For there was the Lord in a pink satin corset,
Lying all bloodied and bruised on the ground
But what was that lying so close, all around?
The leeks from the pot, all bubbly and green
‘Twas the most bizarre sight a person has seen.

So here lies the moral of this sorry story,
For Lord Cheltenham did not die in glory.
The maid who wishes to poison the geek,
Should not leave the stove when stewing a leek,
A wife with a secret should keep it inside
Or she’ll be confused when he’s dressed as the bride.
The son, all aloof and with far away eyes
Should always be ready for a deathly surprise.
The butler and squire should know not to mess
With the lord of the manner (in trousers or dress!)
And the cousin who’s wit is dissected in half
Will always know he’ll have the last laugh!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 02:33:51 AM
How to kill the competition off quickly OZDerek. A shock for all when the other side of the Pacific wakes!

And to think I was going to write some lame comment about a Welsh connection with rare bits in Abergaveny that were relished by the perpetrator.

Keep taking your medication - it's working!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 05:05:04 AM
Ann has caught up.  Ann is rather sleepy.  Ann is watching M*A*S*H and eating grapes.  Ann is tired of referring to herself in the third person.

Thank you all for the good health vibes.  Jane, no I'm not in pain...just mild discomfort.  I can hold out for surgery, just hoping the stupid thing doesn't decide to burst.
I think DR Elmore needs the vibes more than me...send them his way, everyone.  

DRAnn, we're in this together!  My advantage is that if I have to have the damned surgery again, I know what it entails.  While I want to get over this nonsense, I want you to be perfectly okay.  SEND DRANN THOSE VIBES, ALL!!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 05:08:11 AM
Jane said:

"Jose I have saved the tea info.  I have never seen and English/Asian tea shoppe, very interesting.  However, I may not be getting to DC next October so I can spend my free time in NY.  I expect you will be living there by then."

There are many tea shops in New York including the small but fun Tea and Sympathy on Greenwich Avenue in the Village and Lady Mendl's Tea Salon on 17th Street and Irving Place. I haven't been to any of the "high tea" palaces but we do have a list of where they are. Perhaps when you get here we can all have "tea" and Anthony will come this time and you can see his miniature pictures in person.

Kerry, so glad to see you posting again!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 05:10:36 AM
Can't think of a show that I would like to have revived right now. I will ponder the question and return to it later.

Hi, Larry. Hi, D-i-T.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ginny on January 11, 2005, 05:15:22 AM
Another rainy day in the Ohio Valley (as if we needed more!)

TOD2 - Upon Elmore's recommendation, I'm filling a huge gap in my cultural literacy and watching Sex and the City on DVD.  So far, I've seen seasons 1, 2, 4, and the first half of season 6.  The more I watch, the more I'd like to see Sarah Jessica Parker as Fanny in a revival of Funny Girl.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 05:40:52 AM
Well, I think DR Ozderek certainly has TOD #1 covered.  For what it's worth, I suspected kitchen maid Hermoine all along.  She claimed she was no where near the crime because she "had to use the facilities" but we all know that really meant that she had to take a leek.  Poor girl--she got greedy and took all of them and was caught green-handed by Lord Chutney.  The old lecher had had his eyes on the young maid for quite some time, and he was going to seize the opportunity to make her his own.  But the girl, in her panic, pulled out a carving knife.  And Lord Chutney ran into it.  He ran into it ten times.  You might say that he had it comin'.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on January 11, 2005, 05:52:13 AM
That will teach me always to read the Notes first.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jennifer on January 11, 2005, 05:57:01 AM
DR MBarnum, I'm curious about the Alias they showed you last night.  Was it this season's premiere? (was syd's sis nadia in it?).  If so, that seems odd to me.  First to make you watch a 90 minute show (when you probably thought you were getting a 30-60 minute one).  Two, what if you had seen it last week?  Three, it would not be easy to follow if you hadn't watched the other seasons.  This is definitely a show where that makes a HUGE DIFFERENCE.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 05:57:33 AM
Although DRozderek has indeed covered the TOD is wonderful fashion.....he is wrong.

Lord Chutney was killed by Willoughby.  It was very simple.  Lord Chutney discovered Willoughby in the pantry.....wait for it.....wait for it....yes, he was taking a leek.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 05:57:35 AM
Good morning, all!  I've been playing with my profile (left side) to try one of DRGeorge's new avatars.  I think I figured it out.  

Thank you, DRGeorge!

I am a perennial patsy (look for me on the Burpee covers) at mysteries, couldn't even figure out the Nancy Drew ones, so I'm not jumping into the case of the missing leeks.   I'll just ooh and aah at the solutions, but DRozderek - who clearly needs a life beyond HHW - is a tough act to follow.

As far as revivals, I too am a huge fan of LADY IN THE DARK, but I'd suggest Malcolm Getz as Russell Paxton, Brendan Fraser as Randy Curtis,  Brent Barrett as Charlie Johnson, and Sylvia McNair, who seems to have jumped ship from opera to the Great American Songbook, as Liza Elliott:  she's seen enough crazy divas to play one.

Mr Guy Haines just finished singing "Look for a Star."  This album, like the Blob, is growing on me!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 06:00:23 AM
Although DRozderek has indeed covered the TOD is wonderful fashion.....he is wrong.

Lord Chutney was killed by Willoughby.  It was very simple.  Lord Chutney discovered Willoughby in the pantry.....wait for it.....wait for it....yes, he was taking a leek.

DRJRand54, when I was recording Twiggy's album with Dear Friend BK, she and I discussed British music hall stars.  She told me that Marie Lloyd (?) had a song about a little girl who sits among the cabbages and peas, but the censor made her change it to the little girl who sits among the cabbages and leeks.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 06:02:32 AM
DR KERRY I meant to tell you, sometimes when you get to the notes page, if you just refresh - you will be logged in.  Also if DRGEORGE can't fix your avatar photo - email it to me and I will try.

VIXMOM didn't get your pic if you sent it.

DRs derBRUCER and JOSE thanks for the CANDIDE information yesterday.  I am still looking forward to it!  However "Quiet" is one of my favorite songs in the score.....along with "What's the Use?" and I will be very disappointed if it is not included.  Donald Trump....rewrites of THE PAJAMA GAME....new songs....GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on January 11, 2005, 06:03:26 AM
I'd like to see an all-star cast revival of 70 GIRLS 70 - Barbara Cook, Chita Rivera, Patricia Routledge, Elaine Stritch (I can't think of a male star). Judging from the score, the show deserves another life. I think the leads, and the audience, would have a blast.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 06:06:22 AM
LOL......sort of like the title of HALLELUJAH I'M A BUM which was changed in England to HALLELUJAH I'M A TRAMP.....  LOL

And of course....well.....a joke that made us scream with laughter in the 3rd grade.....Confuscious say that lady who cooks carrots and peas in the same pot - unsanitary.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 06:08:02 AM
D-I-T, good choice. I, too, would love to see 70G70. "Coffee in a Cardboard Cup", love that song!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 06:08:45 AM
Well I was just gonna say that old Lord C had eaten all the leeks and in his haste to swallow them all before he was discovered had choked on the very last one and so met his end, but I bow to the master, OZderek

as to the other TOD,

I never saw Chess when it was performed in NYC, I think it only lasted a minute and a half or so ..., but I absolutely love the original concept album.  

I understand that the NYC production removed the whole love story aspect (please, if anyone had more reliable inofrmation, please do correct me)

I am digressing (again) I would love to see Chess  properly staged, following the original concept album, there - I finally got to the point!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 06:11:28 AM
To DR's Ann and Elmore good health vibes

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 06:12:17 AM
To all the West Coasters, I wish you sun
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 06:15:17 AM
On that note, let us move to Page 2. I leave the dance to any other DR.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Joey on January 11, 2005, 06:17:17 AM
My take on the mystery is that the stable boy Squire Meyer is secretly the love child of Lord Chutney and Hermione the maid. To keep the secret, Lord Chutney made Hermione put him up for adoption. She managed to guilt Lord Chutney into giving him a job since he completely abandoned his son (Squire Meyer is actually older than Lord Chutney's and Lady Chutney's son making him the true heir.) Hermione had told Squire Meyer of his true heritage and had hidden the proof in the leeks. Lord Chutney found out about this from Cutler who had overheard them talking and came to the pantry to confront her and destroy the evidence. To protect her son's future and fearing for her life because of the rage Lord Chutney was in, she killed him. Then Squire Meyer came in because he heard a commotion and she gave him the leeks. She told him to run away for a while to protect his future because she had overheard Lord Chutney had promised Cutler a quarter of his fortune if he made sure Squire Meyer never acquired his rightful inheritance.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 06:24:15 AM
I finally remembered! I kept forgetting. What did I keep forgetting and what have I remembered?

On Friday we finally got to watch What If! What a treat. We had no guests and the laundry was done and we had a nice dinner so we popped some popcorn and settled back to see the show (theatres should offer the option of watching the show in your pajamas with a bowl of popcorn). The movie trailer for Oklahoma was hysterical! Our only real complaint was the sound made it difficult to hear sometimes so we missed some lyrics. Now, back to work.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 06:38:52 AM

VIXMOM didn't get your pic if you sent it.



I had unexpected drop in company and so did not get a chance to login from home last night, I'll try again tonight. Thanks!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Joey on January 11, 2005, 06:44:56 AM
I forgot to add that the whole bathroom thing was an alibi to help keep everyone from knowing what really happened. Especially that dastardly Cutler!

I waited to read DRozderek's until after I had written mine so my solution would not be affected by his thoughts. I do have to say ozderek's story had me laughing and getting funny looks from people in the library. :)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 06:55:49 AM

DRs derBRUCER and JOSE thanks for the CANDIDE information yesterday.  I am still looking forward to it!  However "Quiet" is one of my favorite songs in the score.....along with "What's the Use?" and I will be very disappointed if it is not included.  Donald Trump....rewrites of THE PAJAMA GAME....new songs....GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

JRand54, as a huge fan of CANDIDE as a comic operetta who loved the 1973 production but disliked what happened to the score, it's my impression that this is the version, with additional songs, Lonny Price as director settled on for this concert.  The review in New York magazine was particularly unkind to this concert, and I for one don't think either leading lady is right for their role.   I don't know if "Quiet" or "What's the Use?" ended up in it or not.  DRGeorge would know since he has the broadcast on his computer, I believe.

My favorite CANDIDE libretto is Michael Stewart's rewrite of Hellman for the 1958 London production, but I'm also quite fond of the Bernstein London concert which was on VHS, but I believe it's now O.P.  
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 06:57:37 AM
D-I-T, good choice. I, too, would love to see 70G70. "Coffee in a Cardboard Cup", love that song!

When I met Mildred Natwick, I told her how much I loved the "Elephant Song."  She was a lovely lady.  One of my best friends from college was the costumer's assistant on 70 GIRLS 70.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: MBarnum on January 11, 2005, 07:15:02 AM
DR Jennifer, the ALIAS episode did have Nadia in it. The plot had the lead gal getting fired but then it turns out she is joining a new undercover team that her father is in. She finds out that her mother wanted her killed. She steals a sword and has to wear a mask that shoots water into her face. The end.

The surveyors had previously grilled me about my TV viewing habits, so they already knew that ALIAS was not a show that I watch, however they did not tell me what program I would be viewing...so it was a surprise to me...I expected it to be a pilot for a new show, which is what I had to watch last time I participated.

They asked me about different characters and different cast members and plot points and I rated them on a scale of 1 to 10. Then they asked me more and more questions about the show...lots and lots of questions! LOL! Next time I participate I will need to remember to make notes! This program did not really hold my attention so some questions I had a difficult time answering.

If they take my opinions into serious consideration then Jennifer Garner will be fired from the show and it will become a comedy star Angela Bassett, Carl Lumbley and the gal who played Nadia! LOL!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 07:16:46 AM
Good Morning!

Hmm... As for TOD #2 - I shall have think about that one while I'm driving back to Richmond after today's matinee.

As for TOD #1 - I shall have to deduce the clues to that one while I'm driving back to Richmond after today's matinee - well, I suppose I could also deduce during today's matinee, but that would constitute a "double", and I would need advance approval for that since it would affect the budget for the show.  What the heck am I talking about?  I haven't a clew?!?!?!?

Well, I must skedaddle - as opposed to skemommle or skesissle... OUCH!

I'll back be back in a couple of hours... from Richmond...

Laters...
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 07:18:29 AM
Btw, to two of our newest DRs.... Bravo!  Bravo!

*And DR ozderek - I'm assuming you posted all of that on your own time and not on your company's?  ;)

...No worries...
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: MBarnum on January 11, 2005, 07:18:30 AM
On the up side, tonight, after work, I will be interviewing 1950s actress Lynn Bernay about her work in films like VIKING WOMEN AND THE SEA SERPENT, I BURY THE LIVING, PIT AND THE PENDULEM, and VALLEY OF THE REDWOODS.

She left acting for a career in costume design.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on January 11, 2005, 07:47:58 AM
When I met Mildred Natwick, I told her how much I loved the "Elephant Song."  She was a lovely lady.  


"What did you have up here? The Santini Brothers or something?"

And was there a more hilarious performance than MN's in BAREFOOT IN THE PARK?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on January 11, 2005, 07:55:11 AM
Mildred Natwick's "Yes" from 70Girls70 is quite stirring. I wonder why that song never became something of an anthem, in the tradition of "I Got To Be Me."

 
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 08:05:28 AM
I'm listening to Stage and Screen on BBC Radio 3 right now. It's an interview by Edward Seckerson with the sublime and glorious Barbara Cook. If you're at all a fan, go over and listen. It's a beautiful piece.

Here is the link.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio3/stageandscreen/

You need Real Player on your system. Click on Listen to the latest programme, the player will load and you will be taken to heaven (IMHO) for an hour. This particular program will be on the Web site until next Monday, January 17 till around 11am EST.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 08:28:37 AM
TOD #2:

The show that keeps circling in my mind is Two Gentlemen of Verona (the musical).  It seems to be generally dismissed nowadays, but I think it could still work for today's audiences just as much as any Shakespearean play.  There's a couple of love stories with complications, mistaken identities and crossdressing disguises, many comical characters, high comedy, low comedy, social satire.  And lots of catchy songs that easily lend themselves to all kinds of staging.  

If I were doing this show now, I would take it back to its street roots.  Cast mostly talented young unknowns, and keep the design elements to a minimum.  Update some of the arrangements to include hip-hop and latino grooves.  Yes, I think it would work.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 08:28:38 AM
Re:  70, Girls 70.  Add me to the list of people who love the score, especially "Yes."  In fact, Liza's version on "Liza with a Z" is one of the few times I actually really, really like her post-mid-60s singing, but that may be due to that extremely spiffy orchestration.  Don't ask me how it ended up in Portland, but I found a used LP of the OCR years ago that had evidently once belonged to Dorothea Freitag!!  It had a whole bunch of her handwritten notes on an insert inside.  Like a fool, I think I either gave it away or sold it years ago.  Oy.

And for a revival.  How about Sweet Charity with Christina Applegate....NOT.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 08:36:12 AM
JMK - I looked on the IMDB FF message board and the one for Kim Stanley, but I can't find the exchange you wrote about yesterday.

At any rate, I hope you mentioned by name the lovely Lillian Emerson, the Bromo Seltzer heiress who played Lorna in London.  For some reason the source of her money has always amused me.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 08:45:33 AM
DRs derBRUCER and JOSE thanks for the CANDIDE information yesterday.  I am still looking forward to it!  However "Quiet" is one of my favorite songs in the score.....along with "What's the Use?" and I will be very disappointed if it is not included.  Donald Trump....rewrites of THE PAJAMA GAME....new songs....GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

I don't know if "Quiet" or "What's the Use?" ended up in it or not.  DRGeorge would know since he has the broadcast on his computer, I believe.

I do...it is...and they are!
(I do know...the broadcast is on my computer...and both songs are in the concert version!) ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jennifer on January 11, 2005, 08:45:34 AM
DR Jennifer, the ALIAS episode did have Nadia in it. The plot had the lead gal getting fired but then it turns out she is joining a new undercover team that her father is in. She finds out that her mother wanted her killed. She steals a sword and has to wear a mask that shoots water into her face. The end.

The surveyors had previously grilled me about my TV viewing habits, so they already knew that ALIAS was not a show that I watch, however they did not tell me what program I would be viewing...so it was a surprise to me...I expected it to be a pilot for a new show, which is what I had to watch last time I participated.

They asked me about different characters and different cast members and plot points and I rated them on a scale of 1 to 10. Then they asked me more and more questions about the show...lots and lots of questions! LOL! Next time I participate I will need to remember to make notes! This program did not really hold my attention so some questions I had a difficult time answering.

If they take my opinions into serious consideration then Jennifer Garner will be fired from the show and it will become a comedy star Angela Bassett, Carl Lumbley and the gal who played Nadia! LOL!

Interesting.

Yes that was this season's first episode.

I wonder if they were trying to see if people who had never seen the show would like/could follow it.

Personally I think it would make little sense without having seen the other seasons.

Sorry you didn't like it. :(
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 08:47:42 AM
Thanks DRGEORGE.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 08:49:51 AM
You're welcome, DR JRand!

as to the other TOD,

I never saw Chess when it was performed in NYC, I think it only lasted a minute and a half or so ..., but I absolutely love the original concept album.  

I understand that the NYC production removed the whole love story aspect (please, if anyone had more reliable inofrmation, please do correct me)

I am digressing (again) I would love to see Chess  properly staged, following the original concept album, there - I finally got to the point!!

I have the region-2 DVD of the Swedish production (in Swedish...I think Tomovoz does also) and I think it's quite wonderful.  The only problem is is that there are NO SUBTITLES!  In any language!  I have no idea what they're singing.  The duet, "I Know Him So Well," actually starts with Svetlana and Florence sings the echo stuff.  So, they must have totally rewritten the lyrics on that one.  But do I have a klew as to what they're singing?  Absolutely not.  I still love it though. ;D

There is a "making of" documentary on the disc (also with no subtitles) but Tim Rice speaks in English (with no Swedish subtitles) and says that this verison is the one that they hope will be the final version.  We'll see if it goes anywhere...one can always hope!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 09:06:41 AM
I have it!  I know the answer!

At last it's clear!

I know who killed Lord Chutney!

It was the Welsh Rabbit!

Yes, the Welsh Rabbit!

Hermione was supposed to serve Welsh Rabbit with the meal, but didn't have the heart (go with me on this.  I know it's "rarebit").

The Rabbit didn't like it when Lord Chutney tried to take a Leek in the pantry, so he frighted the old man to death by exposing his Welsh Rabbit teeth!

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jay on January 11, 2005, 09:07:59 AM
On the Topic o' the Day, Subsection Two:

I have consistently answered this question the same way each time it has been posed here:  No musical's revival could be more timely these days than that of Mr. Marc Blitzstein's The Cradle Will Rock.  Though the story line about unionization may be less current today than at the time of the show's most unusual premiere, the other threads in the piece that deal with corruption, hypocrisy and unfairness in government, the judiciary, religion, business and the press are as valid today as they were then, if not more so.

There are many roles that could be juicily cast.  Here are some ideas off the top of my head:

Mr. Mister:  Wouldn't Mr. Jerry Orbach have been perfect?  In his stead I propose Mr. John Goodman

Mrs. Mister:  Miss Susan Sarandon

Larry Foreman:  Mr. Brian Stokes Mitchell

Moll:  Miss Audra McDonald

Ella Hammer:  Miss Judy Kaye

Reverend Salvation:  Mr. Kevin Spacey

Yasha:  Mr. Tim Robbins

Dauber:  Mr. Richard Gere

and on and on and on.  The possibilities are endless!



Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 09:17:40 AM
A favorite of mine as well, DRJAY.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 09:18:26 AM
I'd like to see an all-star cast revival of 70 GIRLS 70 - Barbara Cook, Chita Rivera, Patricia Routledge, Elaine Stritch (I can't think of a male star). Judging from the score, the show deserves another life. I think the leads, and the audience, would have a blast.

Jerry Orbach would have been wonderful. How about Harvey Evans? Not in the same star-category as Jerry Orbach, but a wonderful performer. John McMartin would also work.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 09:23:04 AM
I love "Yes" in the original 70 GIRLS 70 and also Liza's version. I also loved getting to sing part of it in AND THE WORLD GOES 'ROUND. It's really a wonderful song done either fast or slow.

I also simply adored Mildred Natwick. What a truly original actress. One of the happest nights of my life was the night she won the Emmy for Best Actress for THE SNOOP SISTERS. She and Helen Hayes only made a half dozen of those 90 minute episodes, but I'd LOVE to have them on DVD.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 09:29:48 AM
I guess I will be watching BUTLEY today. TV tonight is lousy (though I will give COMMITTED another few chances. The USA TODAY critic said tonight was a good one.)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 09:36:45 AM
TOD:

The truth of the matter of Lord Chutney is quite sinister.

It seems his cousin, Major Gray, slew the gent and carted off the corpse to be disposed of in a most unsavory way - well, actually in a savory way - nice with Lamb or Curry.

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 09:53:13 AM
You're welcome, DR JRand!I have the region-2 DVD of the Swedish production (in Swedish...I think Tomovoz does also) and I think it's quite wonderful.  The only problem is is that there are NO SUBTITLES!  In any language!  I have no idea what they're singing.  The duet, "I Know Him So Well," actually starts with Svetlana and Florence sings the echo stuff.  So, they must have totally rewritten the lyrics on that one.  But do I have a klew as to what they're singing?  Absolutely not.  I still love it though. ;D

There is a "making of" documentary on the disc (also with no subtitles) but Tim Rice speaks in English (with no Swedish subtitles) and says that this verison is the one that they hope will be the final version.  We'll see if it goes anywhere...one can always hope!

I would really love to see this show although I cannot, off hand , think of whom I would want to cast...

The Songs "I Know Him So Well", " Embassay Lament",and "Anthem" are three of my all time favorite songs
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 10:04:14 AM
I think Judy Kuhn (I LOVE HER!) could still play Florence.  I don't know if she'd want to do it again, though.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 10:06:47 AM
CHESS is one of those shows for me that has a wonderful score and a terrible, dull book. At least the version that was done here affected me that way. Perhaps with all the reworkings and changes, maybe I'd like a newer version better. I think the company here used the Broadway book.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 10:07:41 AM
THE RAPE OF THE LOCK LOT CONTINUES:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/5911570/80528468.jpg)

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/5911570/80528462.jpg)

der Brucer (there's going to be some real p%%ed off deer)

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 10:08:13 AM
I'd like a BYE BYE BIRDIE revival. High Jackman might be OK for Albert. Catherine Zeta-Jones would be my pick for Rosie.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 10:21:53 AM
Jay said:

"Mr. Mister:  Wouldn't Mr. Jerry Orbach have been perfect?"

He would have been and it would have been great to see him play that part some 40 years after playing Larry Foreman. I have that Off-Broadway recording (I must transfer it to CD) and Nickle Under the Foot is still (IMHO) an amazing piece of work (Larry Foreman doesn't sing that song, Ella Hammer does). I know the show is often dismissed as propaganda and didactic but I love it. I played Dauber many years ago in a hole-in-the-wall theatre in Minnesota.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 10:24:45 AM
JMK - I looked on the IMDB FF message board and the one for Kim Stanley, but I can't find the exchange you wrote about yesterday.

At any rate, I hope you mentioned by name the lovely Lillian Emerson, the Bromo Seltzer heiress who played Lorna in London.  For some reason the source of her money has always amused me.

I did indeed mention Lillian and her Bromo Seltzer connection, which I also mentioned made me laugh.  :)

It's on the board for the Lange film.  So many Boards, so many brainless dolts to contend with.   ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 10:27:54 AM
Re:  Mildred Natwick.  I have some great, very rare photos of her at the Westchester Playhouse, summer of 1937, performing in At Mrs. Beam's with, need I say it? :), Frances Farmer.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jennifer on January 11, 2005, 10:32:46 AM
DR MattH asked opinions of last night's MEDIUM.

(don't read this if you haven't watched it yet).

I enjoyed the second episode.  But I didn't like how they made the guy in her dream not look like the killer.  I'm not sure why they did that.  I guess they wanted to point out that she is not always right.  But it didn't feel right to me.

I liked the jury aspect.  But I think it would have been nice to have seen more at the courtroom.

I"m sure in future episodes, she'll do more hands on stuff re: the cases.  So that will probably make the show more enjoyable.

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 10:33:56 AM
CHESS is one of those shows for me that has a wonderful score and a terrible, dull book. At least the version that was done here affected me that way. Perhaps with all the reworkings and changes, maybe I'd like a newer version better. I think the company here used the Broadway book.

My understanding is they wrote a new book for NYC that was just terrible,and cut out the two love  triangles, but I never had an opportunity to see it as it opened and closed very quickly here

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: MBarnum on January 11, 2005, 10:37:44 AM

Sorry you didn't like it. :(

Well, you know me...I am more of a GILLIGAN'S ISLAND/LEAVE IT TO BEAVER sort of guy, then a MISSION IMPOSSIBLE type! LOL!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 10:37:50 AM
I'm up, I'm up.  Just because no one has mentioned it yet - we have SUN!  Beautiful clear blue skies and sun.  May it last for a while.  And yesterday you will remember when this horribles storm was mentioned (the one we were supposed to get last night from San Diego), I said that if the weather people had predicted it it wouldn't happen.  It didn't.  Glad to see their track record is still intact.  It's quite windy out, but oh them skies.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 10:39:16 AM
Lovely posts about The Mystery of the Leeks.  So many got the key clew - Hemoine using the facilities and "taking a leek".  

As for me, I think you all know what show I want revived and who I want to revive it - Li'l Abner, directed by ME.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 10:45:03 AM
Mildred Natwick is in one of my top ten movies, The Quiet Man.  

Looking over her entry at IMDB.Com, I spotted an ABC Movie of the Week title: Do Not Fold, Spindle, or Mutilate.  I remember enjoying this suspense comedy in which Natwick co-starred with Helen Hayes, Myrna Loy and Sylvia Sidney.  I would love to see it again, along with The Snoop Sisters.

I just noticed--the movie also starred John (Dr. Steven Hardy) Beradino and featured a character named "Cutler".
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 10:46:19 AM
DR MattH asked opinions of last night's MEDIUM.

(don't read this if you haven't watched it yet).

I enjoyed the second episode.  But I didn't like how they made the guy in her dream not look like the killer.  I'm not sure why they did that.  I guess they wanted to point out that she is not always right.  But it didn't feel right to me.

I liked the jury aspect.  But I think it would have been nice to have seen more at the courtroom.

I"m sure in future episodes, she'll do more hands on stuff re: the cases.  So that will probably make the show more enjoyable.


Possible Medium SPOILER alert

I enjoyed the second episode more than I did the first.  I had no problem reconciling the "face" issue as it showed that her dreams would involve her own subconcious thoughts as well as the pyshic info getting through, H

Haven't you ever had a  dream where people you know or have seen are behaving like someone else?
It actually made it more believable to me.

 Part of my problem withthe first one was that I thought , from all the commercials and the title, that she was just a "medium" for dead spirits to tell her things, and this pyschic stuff (like the sheriff's heart troubles)  seemed to be coming out of left field

But now I am in suspension of disbelief mode, and will accept  the fact that she is going to be talking to dead people AND having ESP and wiggling her nose and making Darren dissappear..

I like the character and the husband but I think the writers have to stop experimenting and settle down on whether the husband is going to be supportive or skeptical, because this jumping back and forth is making me annoyed  (although husbands are a bit like that...)  ;)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 10:49:22 AM
I'm up, I'm up.  Just because no one has mentioned it yet - we have SUN!  Beautiful clear blue skies and sun.  May it last for a while.  And yesterday you will remember when this horribles storm was mentioned (the one we were supposed to get last night from San Diego), I said that if the weather people had predicted it it wouldn't happen.  It didn't.  Glad to see their track record is still intact.  It's quite windy out, but oh them skies.

Glad to hear the sun has come out on the west coast, lomg mayit shine!!

 It has just started snowing lightly here on the western end of Long Island.  I am looking out of my office window and Long Island Jewish Hospital is shrouded in fog and little snow flurries are scurrying around the skies
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 10:50:54 AM
".  

As for me, I think you all know what show I want revived and who I want to revive it - Li'l Abner, directed by ME.


I know a kid that's got a barn
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 10:52:23 AM
Glad to hear the sun has come out on the west coast, lomg mayit shine!!

 It has just started snowing lightly here on the western end of Long Island.  I am looking out of my office window and Long Island Jewish Hospital is shrouded in fog and little snow flurries are scurrying around the skies

Hmmm...  I wonder if there's a Dr. Westphall on staff at that hospital.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Stuart on January 11, 2005, 10:55:56 AM
I have returned.

Coulda swum home, practically.

Aside from the weather, had a lovely visit to the left coast.  Haven't read anything on this here board (surely the ginchiest in all of internet-dom), but did wanted to mention that I borrowed my brother's (DR Jay, for the latecomers) copy of WRITER'S BLOCK, and had a marvelous time reading it.  Will now go back to all thos posts that included spoilers, so I know what the heck everyone was thinking.

Ta for now.  Will be back later, hopefully having read some (if not all) posts and notes.  Or notes and posts.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: PennyO on January 11, 2005, 10:58:51 AM
Hey, all! Checkin' in, on my way out... more late tonight. PS - Larry Moore, call me!!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 11:00:43 AM
I'm glad LA was spared from this latest rain storm.  It dumped tons of water on Oakland this a.m.....it woke me out of a sound sleep.  Once my mind grokked it was just a torrential rain beating against my windows, with some thunder rumbling in the hills, I tried to go back to sleep....but the sound of water made me have to get up and go.

The sun is trying to break through right now.  It is supposed to be nice until the weekend, although we are expecting "thule fog" the next couple of days.

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:04:15 AM
Good morning, all!  I've been playing with my profile (left side) to try one of DRGeorge's new avatars.  I think I figured it out.  

... but DRozderek - who clearly needs a life beyond HHW - ....


Sad, but true!!!!!  

 ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 11:04:25 AM
Jay said:

"Mr. Mister:  Wouldn't Mr. Jerry Orbach have been perfect?"

He would have been and it would have been great to see him play that part some 40 years after playing Larry Foreman. I have that Off-Broadway recording (I must transfer it to CD) and Nickle Under the Foot is still (IMHO) an amazing piece of work (Larry Foreman doesn't sing that song, Ella Hammer does). I know the show is often dismissed as propaganda and didactic but I love it. I played Dauber many years ago in a hole-in-the-wall theatre in Minnesota.

I also have that recording with Jerry Orbach!  However, the Moll sings "Nickel Under the Foot."  Ella sings "Joe Worker."  I have an old library copy of the script and it contains the sheet music to four of the songs.  The size is probably 4x6 inches so the songs are not too easy to see.  I photocopied and enlarged the songs when I got it (in the mid-1980s), but the photocopied songs and the book are buried in boxes in my extra bedroom...someday, I'll go through and get rid of what needs to be gotten rid of so I'll have room in my extra bedroom.  Someday. ::)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 11:04:27 AM
Ah - thanks JMK - no wonder I didn't find it.

LOL....Mildred Natwick....she even made a throw-away line in the movie version of BAREFOOT IN THE PARK hilarious....as they were climbing up to Velasco's apartment...."I think I broke a strap!"
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:07:25 AM
I never saw Chess when it was performed in NYC, I think it only lasted a minute and a half or so ..., but I absolutely love the original concept album.  

I understand that the NYC production removed the whole love story aspect (please, if anyone had more reliable inofrmation, please do correct me)

I am digressing (again) I would love to see Chess  properly staged, following the original concept album, there - I finally got to the point!!


If you have the opportunity and can get your hands on a copy, the dvd of the recently staged Swedish production is WONDERFUL!  Even thought there are no English subtitles, the story is so easy to follow, the singing faultless and the staging simply beautiful.  

I had heard that there was talk of basing a Broadway revival on this production (and considering the production personnel, who are mainly Broadway stalwarts, I would not be surprised!).
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:11:18 AM
*And DR ozderek - I'm assuming you posted all of that on your own time and not on your company's?  ;)


DR joseSPiano - due to the time differences, it was around 8pm Monday evening when I posted that ... sitting alone in my kitchen ... leeks stewing on the stove ....!!!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 11:12:00 AM
You're welcome, DR JRand!I have the region-2 DVD of the Swedish production (in Swedish...I think Tomovoz does also)

You can leave that line alone OzDerek and so can Colin.
lol
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 11:12:06 AM
I, too, must commend ozderek on his The Mystery of the Leeks - excellent!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 11:12:15 AM
George, you're right, the Moll sings Nickel (she's talking about how she thought she found a nickle and for dinner would be able to order more than just "coffee, Andy") and Ella sings "Joe Worker", another amazing song. Joe Worker is the song that's running through my head right now so that's probably why I wrote it that way.

I think we probably have the same copies of the songs. Long after I did the show I came across the same 4X6 inch copies. I was excited to finally have a copy of "Nickel Under the Foot". Unfortunately, it's probably not the best song to sing at an audition, unless you're auditioning for Cradle. I used it a couple of times but learned quickly that when they say ballad, they don't mean Nickel.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 11:12:20 AM
Maybe Lord Chutney was hoping Hermione would whip up some cocky leeky soup?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 11:14:52 AM
DR joseSPiano - due to the time differences, it was around 8pm Monday evening when I posted that ... sitting alone in my kitchen ... leeks stewing on the stove ....!!!!
And to think I thought you may have been trying to poach frozen bears.  You have so many recipes OzDerek.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:18:37 AM
You can leave that line alone OzDerek and so can Colin.
lol

Well, DR Tomofoz ... I was not going to comment, but temptation has got the better of me ....

I know you have attempted to watch this several times - so ... gather all your furry friends, get comfortable on the sofa in the shed (!), slip in the dvd and enjoy.  You will be very pleasantly surprised.

A case of CHECKMATE, me thinks !!!!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:19:42 AM
And to think I thought you may have been trying to poach frozen bears.  You have so many recipes OzDerek.


Do frozen bears have icy poles?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 11:20:30 AM
Possible Medium SPOILER alert

I enjoyed the second episode more than I did the first.  I had no problem reconciling the "face" issue as it showed that her dreams would involve her own subconcious thoughts as well as the pyshic info getting through, H

Haven't you ever had a  dream where people you know or have seen are behaving like someone else?
It actually made it more believable to me.


Note - the guy she saw in her dreams she thought was the murderer was in fact the guy on the menu cover of the restaurant where they had been dining weekly.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 11:24:18 AM
Hmmm...  I wonder if there's a Dr. Westphall on staff at that hospital.

I do not know...it's a BIG hospital!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 11:28:35 AM
On the up side, tonight, after work, I will be interviewing 1950s actress Lynn Bernay about her work in films like VIKING WOMEN AND THE SEA SERPENT, I BURY THE LIVING, PIT AND THE PENDULEM, and VALLEY OF THE REDWOODS.

She left acting for a career in costume design.

And she's designing new frocks for you?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 11:29:18 AM
Note - the guy she saw in her dreams she thought was the murderer was in fact the guy on the menu cover of the restaurant where they had been dining weekly.

I know, I was trying to be vague, lest I spoil things for someone who hasn't viewed this episode yet!  I know I have had dreams that had book characters and movie characters in them

She saw what the bad guy had done but put an imaginary face to him, because she had been staring at that other face for the past three weeks
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 11:31:38 AM
Check for yourself OzDerek
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:37:23 AM
Check for yourself OzDerek


I do hope they were white BEFORE they went in to the freezer....!!!!!

Is that a FURtive grin I see?  Are they BEARly alive?  Or are they singing FREZZER jolly good fellow? (ok, ok - i'll stop now!)

 :D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:37:45 AM
oops - that should have been ...

FREEZER jolly good fellow!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 11:43:41 AM
Ozderek, you are making the "no groaning" rule here at HHW very difficult to follow ;-)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 11:44:06 AM
My understanding is they wrote a new book for NYC that was just terrible,and cut out the two love  triangles, but I never had an opportunity to see it as it opened and closed very quickly here



Swoody and I saw the "Bell" version - a another re-write post B'way:

(Extract from Wayward Musings (http://www.aphelion-webzine.com/features/kim_04.htm)):

Quote
For the American version, which is the only one that can be produced in the USA or Canada at this time, there actually seems to be a few different variations. The version that I have seen is that directed by David A. Bell, who has over the last decade, directed CHESS in Chicago at the Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre in 1990, at the Long Beach Civic Light Opera in late 1990, and at the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. He, Kary Walker, Dyanne Earley and Peter Grigsby rewrote the Broadway book (written by the avant-garde political playwright Richard Nelson, hired by Trevor Nunn when he came to Broadway to direct CHESS) because they knew it had not worked. (CHESS only ran on B'way for a few months.)


The love triangle is somewhat re-instituted and the show has a "happy ending" - Florence goets to go back to Daddy.

We both saw the show in London (great score, weak book) and felt the Long Beach Production was an improvement (particularly the added songs - from B"way) and a more workable book - but still the weak point of the show.

der Brucer

 
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:47:10 AM
Ozderek, you are making the "no groaning" rule here at HHW very difficult to follow ;-)

ok .. ok ... i'm still a newbie (is that what you call a baby wasp ...?!)

better a groan than a moan (i think)

apologies all around ... it's early in the morning here (6.45am!)

 ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jennifer on January 11, 2005, 11:51:48 AM
MEDIUM TV SPOILER ALERT

Possible Medium SPOILER alert

I enjoyed the second episode more than I did the first.  I had no problem reconciling the "face" issue as it showed that her dreams would involve her own subconcious thoughts as well as the pyshic info getting through, H

Haven't you ever had a  dream where people you know or have seen are behaving like someone else?
It actually made it more believable to me.

 Part of my problem withthe first one was that I thought , from all the commercials and the title, that she was just a "medium" for dead spirits to tell her things, and this pyschic stuff (like the sheriff's heart troubles)  seemed to be coming out of left field

But now I am in suspension of disbelief mode, and will accept  the fact that she is going to be talking to dead people AND having ESP and wiggling her nose and making Darren dissappear..

I like the character and the husband but I think the writers have to stop experimenting and settle down on whether the husband is going to be supportive or skeptical, because this jumping back and forth is making me annoyed  (although husbands are a bit like that...)  ;)

Your comments made me think.  Yes, I suppose you have a point re: people in dreams sometimes looking like others. I've had dreams where someone is so and so, yet doesn't like them.  I simply know it's them.  I think the reason it bothered me on the show was that it made it seem like she was putting an innocent man to death.

I see what you mean about hearing dead people vs psychic.  This episode made her look like she could do everything.  Not sure how she could get all those backstories just from the questionnaires.

I also see what you mean about her husband.  I think the pilots are taped way before all the others.  So maybe they are figuring this out as they go along.

Nice insights!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 11:52:11 AM
Five more posts should do it OzDerek.. Almost half a fence.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jennifer on January 11, 2005, 11:54:31 AM
Golden Globe gift bags:

http://www.laobserved.com/archive/002920.html

So what item would each of you like?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:57:14 AM
Five more posts should do it OzDerek.. Almost half a fence.

.... and they call my puns groaners !!!!!!!!!!!!!

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 11:58:24 AM
Now .. on a more serious note .. hands up if you think they should revive "CARRIE"!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 12:02:36 PM
No offence intended OzDerek.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 12:04:53 PM
 Sort of a "Carrie On" revival comment. (Sorry!  Too much Kenneth Williams this last week)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 12:06:33 PM
No offence intended OzDerek.

None taken Tomofoz.

However, with a GAIT like yours, i'd remain indoors!!!

 ;)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 12:10:15 PM
 SAG (http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/movies/entertainment-leisure-sag.html?ei=5006&en=de48b96cd698f7ce&ex=1106110800&partner=ALTAVISTA1&pagewanted=print&position=) nominations:

Quote
January 11, 2005
'Sideways' Leads SAG Awards Nominees
By REUTERS
 
Filed at 11:21 a.m. ET

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Road comedy ``Sideways,'' about a pair of men looking for love in the rolling hills of California's wine country, led the nominees for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Tuesday with four nominations, putting it on the path to Oscar contention.

It was joined among the nominees for best cast in a movie, SAG's highest award, by the Howard Hughes biography ``The Aviator,'' African genocide drama ``Hotel Rwanda,'' female boxing movie ``Million Dollar Baby,'' ``Ray,'' about soul singer Ray Charles and ``Finding Neverland,'' a film about how J.M. Barrie was inspired to create ``Peter Pan.''
...
``Sideways'' earned Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church nominations for best actor and supporting actor, respectively, and one for Virginia Madsen as best supporting actress.

...
SAG President Melissa Gilbert called ``Sideways,'' ``the little movie that could,'' and told Reuters she was ``surprised'' by many of the nominations including four for actor Jamie Foxx, the first time one actor has been nominated in that many SAG categories.

FOXX'S FOUR

Foxx earned nominations for best film actor playing soul singer Charles in ``Ray,'' best supporting actor in a film for his portrayal of a kidnapped taxi driver in ``Collateral'' and best actor in a television movie as a convicted murderer in ``Redemption.'' He was also in the best cast category for ``Ray.''

Joining Foxx and Giamatti among best actor nominees were Don Cheadle as a heroic hotel manager in ``Hotel Rwanda,'' Leonardo DiCaprio playing Howard Hughes in ``Aviator'' and Johnny Depp as Barrie in ``Neverland.''

Best film actress nominees were Britain's Imelda Staunton playing an abortionist in ``Vera Drake,'' Hilary Swank in ``Million Dollar Baby,'' Annette Bening in comedy ``Being Julia,'' Kate Winslet for romance, ``Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind'' and newcomer Catalina Sandino Moreno for her role as a cocaine smuggler in the drama ``Maria Full of Grace.''

Supporting actor nominees along with Church and Foxx were Morgan Freeman for ``Million Dollar Baby,'' child actor Freddie Highmore in ``Neverland'' and veteran James Garner in romance ``The Notebook.''

Garner will receive SAG's lifetime achievement honor, too, marking the first time in the show's 11 years that an actor being given the achievement honor also has been nominated for an award.

Supporting actress nominees along with Madsen were Cate Blanchett portraying screen legend Katharine Hepburn in ``Aviator,'' veteran Cloris Leachman in comedy ``Spanglish,'' Laura Linney in ``Kinsey,'' about the life of sex researcher Alfred Kinsey, and Sophie Okonedo in ``Rwanda.''

SAG also gives out awards for television, and in that arena the casts of ``CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,'' ``24,'' ``Six Feet Under,'' ``The Sopranos'' and ``The West Wing,'' were nominated for best acting in a drama.

The casts of ``Arrested Development,'' new show ``Desperate Housewives,'' ``Everybody Loves Raymond,'' ``Sex and the City,'' and ``Will & Grace'' were nominated for best acting in a TV comedy.


der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 12:10:18 PM
Well dear readers I am off to give blood ...

mmm - makes me think - in light of Tomofoz's favourite (not) film ...

how about a musical version of "THE ABOMINABLE DR PHIBES"????

All those murders - sure to be some toe tapping tunes in there somewhere!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 12:11:08 PM
Now .. on a more serious note .. hands up if you think they should revive "CARRIE"!

I saw CARRIE; it should stay dead.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 12:12:56 PM
Golden Globe gift bags:

http://www.laobserved.com/archive/002920.html

So what item would each of you like?

The $125 box of chocolates, of course!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 12:13:21 PM
oooh - just noticed - 50 posts - will 1 more more get me promoted?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 12:14:44 PM
Quote
Tons of sewage
City health officials closed the city's beaches Monday afternoon after they found out that more than a million gallons of sewage had gone into the Los Angeles River, which empties into the ocean waters off Long Beach, since Sunday morning, said city Health Officer Dr. Darryl Sexton.
The uncontrolled spill of 40,000 gallons of sewage per hour started Sunday morning in the Eagle Rock area of Los Angeles, Sexton said..

Sexton said the spill was out of Los Angeles' control.

"They're overwhelmed," he said.

After the spill is stopped, "the water will get a chance to clean itself up," he said.


Well, so much for a Pogue Family day at the beach!

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 12:15:07 PM
YAAAAAAAAAAY!

I'm now a (gasp) JUNIOR (at my age?) member.

Feels like I should get a plastic statuette!!

"I would like to thank my family, friends and the voting committee (sniff!)"

:)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 12:17:57 PM
Well dear readers I am off to give blood ...


All those murders - sure to be some toe tapping tunes in there somewhere!
And some vein-tapping for atmosphere!

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 12:21:00 PM
LADY IN THE DARK was revived with Maria Friedman at the National Theatre in London in the mid-nineties.  A cast album was released.  I found the show, as usual at the National, quite well-mounted and very stylish...I still remember vividly the wonderful set.  But it's still not the greatest show or score (with the exception of a couple of numbers) and I suspect the psychology is a bit primitive these days.

Martha Raye once told me a great story about Marie Lloyd...She was being introduced by someone in a theatre who announced, "Miss Marie Lloyd will now sings Trees."  Someone from the audience yelled:  "Marie Lloyd's a @*#!sucker!"  To which the interlocutor replied:  "That may well be, but nevertheless she is going to sing Trees."  Don't know whether it's true or not, but it's funny.

MattH, BUTLEY well worth a looksee.  

As a theatrical archeologist who loves the obscure, the neglected, the forgotten, the overlooked, and the rarely performed there are hundreds of things I would love to see revived.  

As far as musicals, LI'L ABNER has been evoked enough.  I think Kimmel should direct a revival.  I'd also like to see a production of KEAN.  The two Ibsen plays I recently read would be interesting to see staged, THE VIKINGS & THE PRETENDERS.  I would love to see a first-class revival of ROYAL HUNT OF THE SUN.  I would also like to see a production of John Webster's Jacobean tragedy,THE WHITE DEVIL.  Just missed one a few years ago in London.  

Another Shaffer play I'd like to see is GIFT OF THE GORGON, which played London in '94 and, to my knowledge, hasn't been revived since.  It is the single greatest play I've read in the last dozen years.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 12:21:44 PM
Golden Globe gift bags:

http://www.laobserved.com/archive/002920.html

So what item would each of you like?

The box of chocolates like DR Sandra said and the MP3 player.  I'm not metro enough to appreciate the other stuff (though the wine adventure sounds interesting--does the $16K involve airfare and hotel bills or does one just to swill down $16K worth of wine?)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 12:35:18 PM
I just watched a clip of GMA with Mickey Rooney talking about his banned backside commercial.  They guy is 84 and has more life in him that a lot of people I know who are my age.  Good for him, I say.  If he wants to show some booty at his age more power to him!

Mickey Rooney--there's your Marryin' Sam!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 12:45:45 PM
I don't think the Mick would do it unless you changed the names of the show to MARRYIN' SAM.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 12:49:20 PM
LADY IN THE DARK was revived with Maria Friedman at the National Theatre in London in the mid-nineties.  A cast album was released.  I found the show, as usual at the National, quite well-mounted and very stylish...I still remember vividly the wonderful set.  But it's still not the greatest show or score (with the exception of a couple of numbers) and I suspect the psychology is a bit primitive these days.

DRCharles Pogue, I would disagree about the quality of the score to LADY IN THE DARK.  I find the three dream sequences skilfully crafted one-act operas, and Weill seems to be flying high on invention:  great choral writing, interesting orchestration for a small theatre orchestra, and an abundance of good tunes.  While I'm grateful for a complete recording, I find Ms Friedman - who may have been stunning onstage - badly overparted in Gertrude Lawrence's soprano keys.

The libretto is certainly primitive in its rapid recovery, but since it all stemmed from Mr Hart's analysis to cure his homosexuality, he must have felt his rapid attachment to several of his leading ladies was a sure sign anyone could be cured quickly.  Having seen several National Theatre musical productions where I found the decision to cast actors over voices (CANDIDE, CAROUSEL) a mistake, my jury is still out about whether I think the National shoud be doing them.  I missed the OKLAHOMA!, but I saw the video.  Don't like the Laurie at all.  I do wish I'd seen the GUYS AND DOLLS, however, as well as the LADY IN THE DARK.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 12:52:08 PM
So how was Marie's version of "Trees"?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 12:56:11 PM
I don't think the Mick would do it unless you changed the names of the show to MARRYIN' SAM.

DRJRand54, Mickey Rooney begged for the role of the Toymaker when I did BABES IN TOYLAND with the Houston Grand Opera.  We lost Donald O'Connor because of health, I wanted Bernard Hughes who was tied up in contracts for BLOSSOM, and we ended up with Eddie Bracken, who was lovely offstage and couldn't remember his lines!  I wish we'd gone with Mickey.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 12:56:47 PM
So how was Marie's version of "Trees"?

Her bark was worse than her bite!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 12:57:15 PM
I think KEAN is one of the underrated scores of the past 50 years. Charles Pogue's mentioning it made me want to make that comment.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 01:00:19 PM
Watch Mildred Natwick in YOLANDA AND THE THIEF, and then watch her in BAREFOOT IN THE PARK. You'd almost swear they were made within a year of each other. The woman was ageless.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 01:01:39 PM
...As far as revivals, I too am a huge fan of LADY IN THE DARK, but I'd suggest Malcolm Getz as Russell Paxton, Brendan Fraser as Randy Curtis,  Brent Barrett as Charlie Johnson, and Sylvia McNair, who seems to have jumped ship from opera to the Great American Songbook, as Liza Elliott:  she's seen enough crazy divas to play one....
Interesting choices!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 01:10:03 PM
I read this morning in VARIETY and again in PLAYBILL that Bill Condon (who wrote CHICAGO and wrote/directed GODS AND MONSTERS and KINSEY) is doing to do double duty on the movie of DREAMGIRLS.

Now, who to cast? He said in the interview that he wants to make a new discovery for the actress playing Effie. But what do you want to bet that Taye Diggs plays one of those Dreamboys?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 01:10:53 PM
I'd like to see an all-star cast revival of 70 GIRLS 70 - Barbara Cook, Chita Rivera, Patricia Routledge, Elaine Stritch (I can't think of a male star). Judging from the score, the show deserves another life. I think the leads, and the audience, would have a blast.
By this time, John McMartin should be old enough (but he'll never admit it...)


(Didn't realize I was dittoing Matt!)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 01:12:09 PM
I read this morning in VARIETY and again in PLAYBILL that Bill Condon (who wrote CHICAGO and wrote/directed GODS AND MONSTERS and KINSEY) is doing to do double duty on the movie of DREAMGIRLS.

Now, who to cast? He said in the interview that he wants to make a new discovery for the actress playing Effie. But what do you want to bet that Taye Diggs plays one of those Dreamboys?

Frenchie from American Idol as Effie!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:17:00 PM
Whoever they get for Effie, please,  oh! please, let her be able to sing the role...and significantly better than the lady who sang it in "'Dreamgirls' in Concert".
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:18:01 PM
When a song demands a certain vocal range, NOBODY is going to be satisfied with a sentimental, but awkward, choice who cannot hit the notes...or sustain them.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:18:25 PM
I have a code in by nose.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:18:33 PM
My tummy is queasy.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:18:46 PM
I've got considerable post-nasal drip.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:19:05 PM
And I've had some sneezing fits (8-10 sneezes per fit).
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Stuart on January 11, 2005, 01:19:05 PM
Frenchie from American Idol as Effie!

Beyonce as Deena.

(And though far too old, Whoopi as Lorell)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:19:25 PM
I'm alternately cold, then hot (but don't say "fickle").
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:19:54 PM
I'm on the verge of calling it quits at work for the day and going home to bed.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:21:29 PM
I vote that NOBODY from the pop music world be cast in legitimate theatrical roles.

They inevitably irritate, rile and disappoint.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Stuart on January 11, 2005, 01:23:33 PM
I see that my brother covered our dinner Saturday night.  a good time was had by all.

The rest of my Californian weekend was comprised of several shopping jaunts with our mother, accomplishing several chores for her (thereby freeing said brother up for some others that will have to be done at another time), and generally just visting with her.  Only one game of Scrabble (C), and not a particularly stellar one on either of our parts.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:23:34 PM
Except Reba, of course.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:24:54 PM
Ya know, there is an edition of "Scrabble" out there with twice as many letters, with point values increased, both on the tiles and on the bonus squares, and you work with more letters per draw.

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Stuart on January 11, 2005, 01:27:33 PM
And oh yes.....we went to a movie whilst G-d was spitting on southern CA.

We saw MEET THE FOCKERS.  It wasn't as funny as I thought it was going to be.  In fact, it was kind of stupid, and far more scatalogical than I remember the original being.  

However, it was nice to see La Streisand having a sense of humor again.  Dustin Hoffmann, however, was the one that I thought came off best.  And I love Blythe Danner.  I always have.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 01:28:13 PM
...Hermione was supposed to serve Welsh Rabbit with the meal, but didn't have the heart (go with me on this.  I know it's "rarebit")....
Didn't have the hart?  Hart is dear!  And I don't mean expensive!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 01:32:39 PM
I will back up the report of actual sun. It's quite wonderful. Caught up on the posts. Must get back to writing. You won't be seeing my smiling mug until later in the day.

             ***FEEL BETTER VIBES TO RLP***
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 01:33:44 PM
Elmore, that's what makes horse races.  I actually like much of the music in LADY IN THE DARK andI certainly enjoyed the production I saw.  I find it an interesting and intriguing musical, but not a great musical.  The operatic aspects you mentioned are things I am not overwhelmed with.  Of course, my introduction to this musical besides the bad Ginger Rogers film version which jettisons most, if not all, of the score, was a recording by Opera star Rise Stevens and I found her acting ability a bit limited.  

I'm sort of in-between on casting actors over singers.  I've found some of the most moving musicals I've seen had stronger actors than singers playing the roles.  One of my favourite singers, who introduced probably more classic songs than anyone, was Fred Astaire...who, let's face it, was far from the greatest singer, but had a lot of style and panache and could put over a song.  

One of my favourite film musicals is GOODBYE,MR. CHIPS which is full of mostly negligible, if not lousy, songs (except for one or two) and stars Peter O'Toole who can't sing a jot.  Go figure.

I know a lot of people who worked with Mickey Rooney in dinner theatre in the seventies who would not want to work with him again.  Found him very undisciplined and egotistical.  Said you could not trust him or depend on him onstage.

Well, just took Tewkes on his first long walk in days (weeks, it seems) and, despite the deluge of the past few days, the day is simply glorious.  Around the corner of our little hill, we have vistas of LA that stretch to the sun-glistening ocean.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 01:34:15 PM
On the Topic o' the Day, Subsection Two:

I have consistently answered this question the same way each time it has been posed here:  No musical's revival could be more timely these days than that of Mr. Marc Blitzstein's The Cradle Will Rock.  Though the story line about unionization may be less current today than at the time of the show's most unusual premiere, the other threads in the piece that deal with corruption, hypocrisy and unfairness in government, the judiciary, religion, business and the press are as valid today as they were then, if not more so....
Ah, yes, how to deal with the union storyline, when unions are saddled with the exact same problems corrupting the govenment, judiciary, relition, business, the press...

There's only one solution...revisicle!

 :-\
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 01:38:03 PM
I second Ron's vote about not casting pop stars...IN ANYTHING!

MattH, though I know the book was probably problematic (and have heard such from its author Peter Stone), I've always found the score to KEAN very moving as well as thematic material of the story.  And then, of course, there is Alfred Drake...who to me is the still the greatest actor/singer of the Broadway stage.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jay on January 11, 2005, 01:41:01 PM
Her Royal Highness Latifa might make an interesting Effie...
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 01:44:16 PM
Oh, that movie of LADY IN THE DARK is so terrible. But it's beautiful to look at in color.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 01:46:41 PM
Lillias White did Effie on the concert recording, and she is a wonderful singing actress. I, however, also found her underwhelming as Effie on that recording even though I know she has done the show on stage. Wasn't she in the DREAMGIRLS revival that played Broadway a decade ago or so?

I wouldn't mind hearing Queen Latifa try Effie's music, but from the sound of the article, they're looking for an unknown. David Geffen, of course, is producing. He's been sitting on these rights since the beginning, and he could have had Whitney Houston as Deena a decade or so ago before she got so messed up.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ron Pulliam on January 11, 2005, 01:48:43 PM
One of my favourite film musicals is GOODBYE,MR. CHIPS which is full of mostly negligible, if not lousy, songs (except for one or two) and stars Peter O'Toole who can't sing a jot.  Go figure.

Mine, too!  In fact, I think it's one of the last GREAT movie-movies...sweetly old-fashioned with elegant production values.

O'Toole is brilliant, Clark is spectacular and Sian Phillips is absolutely "delicious" as Ursula Mossbank.

I'm afraid, though, that I adore the music.  I know the lyrics are often dreadful...but the music, itself, is quite lovely.  It has a magnificent "underscore" free of the vocals that works exceptionally well.

But most of all, it has the "Flossie from Fulham" number in which the world finally knew the truth of it:

"London is London...."
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 01:49:57 PM
Sorry to read you're under the weather, DR RLP. Hope you feel better.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 01:50:18 PM
Elmore, that's what makes horse races.  I actually like much of the music in LADY IN THE DARK andI certainly enjoyed the production I saw.  I find it an interesting and intriguing musical, but not a great musical.  The operatic aspects you mentioned are things I am not overwhelmed with.  Of course, my introduction to this musical besides the bad Ginger Rogers film version which jettisons most, if not all, of the score, was a recording by Opera star Rise Stevens and I found her acting ability a bit limited.  


Limited?  DRCharles Pogue, she's terrible!  The late great John Reardon and Adolph Green are the only reasons to listen to that recording.  You know who I like on that recording?  The wonderful soprano who plays Sutton and sings "Huxley."  I don't remember her name.

So much of popular song todayshows no craft in writing, and its Weill's solid technique that makes the dream sequences so fascinating to me; like the reason CANDIDE is a great piece of composition and PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is not.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 01:54:26 PM
How much of LADY IN THE DARK's score was used in the Ann Sothern TV version? I've never seen nor heard it, though I know the CD is available (or was, probably OOP by now), and the video has been floating around for ages.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 01:54:47 PM
I'm sort of in-between on casting actors over singers.  I've found some of the most moving musicals I've seen had stronger actors than singers playing the roles.  One of my favourite singers, who introduced probably more classic songs than anyone, was Fred Astaire...who, let's face it, was far from the greatest singer, but had a lot of style and panache and could put over a song.  

I love Fred Astaire, but no one woud have written a score like CANDIDE or CAROUSEL for him.  The songs in GAY DIVORCE are tailored for him, but Porter would never have proposed him for KISS ME, KATE.  My favorite musical may be MY FAIR LADY, and I never want to hear a singer play Higgins.  I saw Frank Langella do the role in 1990, and I thought he was wonderful.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 01:58:57 PM
How much of LADY IN THE DARK's score was used in the Ann Sothern TV version? I've never seen nor heard it, though I know the CD is available (or was, probably OOP by now), and the video has been floating around for ages.

There's actually more than I thought when I first found the old RCA recording in a used bin.  It's all re-orchestrated in echt-1950s style by Irwin Kostal, and re-routined a lot.  Ann requires a lot of downward transposition (no high C at the end of "Jenny") but Carlton Carpenter is quite wonderful as Russell Paxton.

If you'd like, I can burn you a CD (now I need to check to make sure I have it!).  Just PM me your address.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: TCB on January 11, 2005, 02:01:15 PM
We received an interesting review in this morning's paper for our production of NATIONAL PASTIME.  The reviewer seemed to like most of the cast, but didn't care for the play itself.  That is fine, but nobody can quite figure out what exactly she thought was missing or ignored.  Perhaps she was hoping for an actual lynching or a cross-burning onstage.

 I don't know how to connect this link, but here's hoping it works.

http://www.thenewstribune.com/ae/story/4433450p-4192820c.html

 
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 02:07:55 PM
Re:  Goodbye Mr. Chips.  I love it, too, including the music.

"London is London" was recycled by Bricusse for his Sherlock Holmes musical.  And there's a nice CD of the stage version of Chips with John Mills.

Do any of you Chips fans remember Petula Clark dissing Leslie Bricusse and the score on not one, but two, Merv Griffin shows shortly after the film was released?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 02:14:28 PM
And for a revival.  How about Sweet Charity with Christina Applegate....NOT.

DRJMK, I meant to comment on this earlier.  I'm not a fan of the show SWEET CHARITY, much as I love the score, but I wish Miss Applegate great success with it, just as I did with Mr Combs in RAISIN IN THE SUN.  I think she'll be funny, I'm certain her dancing will be better than Melanie Griffith's wherein the CHICAGO moves were simplified, and I hope she's as much of a nice surprise for Broadway audiences as Constance Towers, Alexis Smith, and Patricia Morison were after their Hollywood moments ranging from the good to the bad and the ugly.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 02:17:06 PM

Do any of you Chips fans remember Petula Clark dissing Leslie Bricusse and the score on not one, but two, Merv Griffin shows shortly after the film was released?

NO! I had no idea! She had two of the best numbers in the score: "London Is London" and "You And I," my two favorite songs in the movie! What was she complaining about?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 02:22:46 PM
My two fav songs from GOODBYE, MR. CHIPS are "London Is London" and "Walk Through The World With Me".  I do a peccable (Oooh!  A CHIPS reference) impression of O'Toole croaking through "What A Lot Of Flowers"  and, yes, despite the fact he can't sing a jot, he's still brilliant and deserved his AA nomination.  Petula is charming, and Sian Phillips as Ursula, simply divine!

JMK, I have been tempted on more than one occasion to pick up the stage version of CHIPS with John Mills, but have always not, assuming he can't sing any better than O'Toole.  And I just don't want anything to diminish my love of the movie.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 02:31:37 PM
YAAAAAAAAAAY!

I'm now a (gasp) JUNIOR (at my age?) member.

Feels like I should get a plastic statuette!!

"I would like to thank my family, friends and the voting committee (sniff!)"

:)

And when you reach 101 posts, you'll have (oops!) be a full member! ::) ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 02:41:19 PM
Golden Globe gift bags:

http://www.laobserved.com/archive/002920.html

So what item would each of you like?

Well, if you're not using the trip to Ozzie land, of course I only really want it to visit Tom & Derek!

Gosh I live an unpretentous life, I don't even KNOW
what some of those things are, well off to Target...
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: vixmom on January 11, 2005, 02:43:16 PM
YAAAAAAAAAAY!

I'm now a (gasp) JUNIOR (at my age?) member.

Feels like I should get a plastic statuette!!

"I would like to thank my family, friends and the voting committee (sniff!)"


Congrats on your shiny new star!!
:)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 02:44:08 PM
Pet just didn't like the music--said it didn't work for her and that she couldn't get Bricusse to change anything.  I can't remember which song she said she could stand--it was one of the ballads, either "You And I" or "Walk Through The World", I want to say the former.  She sang it on the first show.  Y'all probably know this already, but she also released a pop version of "Fill the World With Love" that is a nice reworking of that song.

On the second episode, she was talking about whatever her next movie was going to be (was there ever a next movie?) and Merv goaded her a little about Chips and the music and she laughed and said it wasn't going to be a musical so she wouldn't have to deal with any obstinant composer/lyricists.

CP:  the CD is enjoyable on its own terms, but it's quite a bit different from the movie version, including rearranged numbers (i.e., sequence is different, though the orchestrations are obviously different, too, LOL) as well as several new numbers.  IIRC (it's been a while since I read the liner notes), Mrs. Chipping doesn't die in a buzz bomb accident, but (perhaps, memory failing) giving birth.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ann on January 11, 2005, 02:55:30 PM
TCB - interesting review...very cryptic.  I've got a ticket to see it on Sunday...can't wait
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 02:56:08 PM
At lunch today, I went to my local post office and mailed the following packages:

To DR JMK:  BK's radio interview
To DR MattH:  my laserdisc soundtrack of 1776
To DR Elmore:  BK's radio interview and my laserdisc soundtrack of 1776
And to DR Ben:  TMT's new Christmas CD

Did I forget something? :-[ Did I get everyone's requests correct? :-\ Please let me know. :)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 02:58:02 PM
Of course, Mr. Bricusse was only one of many composer/lyricists approached to write the songs.  I had an album, a demo, two discs, of songs by these others written on spec - very interesting.  One of the composers was Tony Hatch, which is why Petula may think less of what Mr. Bricusse did.  On one of the Tony Hatch compilation CDs, you can hear Petula sing his title song, and it's quite pretty.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Kerry on January 11, 2005, 03:05:49 PM
I hear that LA got a respite from the rain today.  IS that true?  I haven't read the posts yet, or I might know the answer.

As to the leeks, EVERYONE knows they were made into a delicious potato leek soup which can be frozen in various sized portions and microwaved on cold rainy days.

There are number of songs from musicals that I like, but I think the books are somewhat weak.  Maybe they should just do the revivals in concert form.  "Tenderloin" is a great example.  Wonderful score, great choreography, but even with someone like Maurice Evans carrying it, the book wasn't as strong as it could be.  Who do we have today like a Maurice Evans?

For sometime, I've wanted them to revive "La Cage" which they did.  Not that I'm any closer to seeing it, but at least they did it.  I'd have to see the current cast to know whether or not it was right or not.

Actually, "Fanny" might be worth reviving.  Lovely score.  Good book.  Great parts for character actors.  And yet, I have no idea who could do it.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 03:05:50 PM
Welcome eight GUESTS.  We're talkin' about revivals.  

I had Popeye's for my meal o' the day.  If the weather holds, I suppose I'll try and go see this play later.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 03:06:22 PM
At lunch today, I went to my local post office and mailed the following packages:

To DR Elmore:  BK's radio interview and my laserdisc soundtrack of 1776

Did I forget something? :-[ Did I get everyone's requests correct? :-\ Please let me know. :)

DRGeorge, thank you so much!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 03:07:18 PM
Jane said:

"Jose I have saved the tea info.  I have never seen and English/Asian tea shoppe, very interesting.  However, I may not be getting to DC next October so I can spend my free time in NY.  I expect you will be living there by then."

There are many tea shops in New York including the small but fun Tea and Sympathy on Greenwich Avenue in the Village and Lady Mendl's Tea Salon on 17th Street and Irving Place. I haven't been to any of the "high tea" palaces but we do have a list of where they are. Perhaps when you get here we can all have "tea" and Anthony will come this time and you can see his miniature pictures in person.

Kerry, so glad to see you posting again!


Tea sounds like fun.  I saw the miniature pictures in person (Penny & I had a grand time looking at them).  It is Anthony I haven't met in person and would like to do so.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 03:09:53 PM
Matt H we haven’t watched Medium yet.

DerBrucer, pretty picture of John Wannamaker’s.  It looks like the mall that was across from the Liberty Bell where Alfredo’s was located.
The "Elsies Tea Room" is another place I missed out on.  Santa Monica has two English shops, one of which has a tea room.  I have picked up food from the counter and wasn’t thrilled.

Kerry I thought firm polenta tastes like hardened cream of wheat, but never marzipan.

Dan (the Man) “Thanks, DR George.  Here's what I get when I properly adjust the aspect ratio of my avatar pic:”  ROTFLOL

And Jed- ;D

George, before we moved out of our bedroom again I checked if the DVD of SAMANTHA worked, and it does.  Thank you.  Not Keith’s sort of movie.  I will watch it some afternoon by myself.





Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 03:12:56 PM
Actually, "Fanny" might be worth reviving.  Lovely score.  Good book.  Great parts for character actors.  And yet, I have no idea who could do it.

Well, let's see:

Marius:  Sean McDermott/Gavin Creel
Fanny:  Christiane Noll
Panisse: Walter Bobbie
Cesar:  Ron Raines
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 03:15:30 PM
Thanks, George.  Gifthorse time:  if you feel like sending me 1776, I'll trade something to be determined at a later date.  Am I still on the What If list?

BK, do you remember who else did Chips on spec?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 03:16:57 PM
 I would love to see a first-class revival of ROYAL HUNT OF THE SUN.

I sure hope it work's better on stage then it does on film!

I take delight in Shaffer's word-smithing but the film never seemed to grab me the way I think it should.

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 03:18:11 PM
And to think I thought you may have been trying to poach frozen bears.  You have so many recipes OzDerek.

 ;D  MY smile is for the photo that isn't here.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 03:18:18 PM
Firm Polenta is the title of my new novel.

Aside from Hatch, I can't remember, but they were all well-known.  I've e-mailed someone who I think might be the person who let me hear the LPs (I remember dubbing them off to cassette, but I'll be horn-swoggled if I can find any trace of them.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 03:19:01 PM
Has anyone noticed that I didn't close the parens?  Here: )  Now we have closure, parens-wise.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:19:34 PM
Good Evening!

-Just finished reading all the posts up to now...

I'm back in Richmond.  The matinee went well, and it went fast.  -I think the three boxes of Krispy Kremes that the contractor brought in helped keep our energy up. ;)

The drive back to Richmond was a breeze - I just missed the start of the real DC rush hour.  And I made a stop at Ukrop's on the way in to pick up some baking stuff.  So...
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 03:23:09 PM
Good luck - just hear back from the guy I e-mailed and it was indeed him who'd let me hear the two LPs worth of Chips demos.  He's burning me a CD and I should have it shortly.  

For those who love Chips, there is something in the works that will make you very very happy.  I can say no more.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:24:17 PM
RE: Lillias White and the DREAMGIRLS in Concert CD.  I've heard Lillias White in person performing "And I Am Telling You", and she's not well-represented on the concert recording.  There were a couple of people who were "publicly" sick during those concerts - Billy Porter being the most "public" about his cold/throat troubles.  Maybe she was also dealing with health issues at the time too, but did not mention it to anyone.  ....Or something like that.

-Btw, I do think that Billy Porter has a nice voice, but I do wish I didn't find myself constantly wishing he would just pull it back sometimes... all the time.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:27:27 PM
RE: LADY IN THE DARK - I'm not all that familiar with the show, but I did have to wonder about the production that was done in Philadelphia a few years ago with Andrea Marcovicci.  Talk about transposing the songs down a few keys!  -And I'm also one of those who just doesn't "get" Ms. Marcovicci's vocal color, style or supposed "beauty".  I've always thought labelling oneself's a "chanteuse" meant that you couldn't sing on pitch.  ;)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 03:28:05 PM

-Btw, I do think that Billy Porter has a nice voice, but I do wish I didn't find myself constantly wishing he would just pull it back sometimes... all the time.

DRJose, I worked with him in 2003 at the Chicago Humanities Festival. and he sang the Eubie Blake things beautifully.  Nice man, to boot!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:29:12 PM
DR Stuart - Welcome home.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 03:29:23 PM
RE: LADY IN THE DARK - I'm not all that familiar with the show, but I did have to wonder about the production that was done in Philadelphia a few years ago with Andrea Marcovicci.  Talk about transposing the songs down a few keys!  -And I'm also one of those who just doesn't "get" Ms. Marcovicci's vocal color, style or supposed "beauty".  I've always thought labelling oneself's a "chanteuse" meant that you couldn't sing on pitch.  ;)

I think chanteuses sing on pitch and diseuses, like diseases, don't!  La Marcovicci as Liza Elliot terrifies me.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 03:30:36 PM
DRGeorge, thank you so much!

You're welcome!  And let me know if anything's broken. :-\ I put the CDs in a padded envelope, but they still may be too Fragilé (a "Christmas Story" reference!).  I can very easily send them again.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 03:31:29 PM
Tomovoz those bear pictures are making my day.

I am ready for a nap.  I woke up in the wee hours of the morning to finish reading DAUGHTER OF TIME.

Charles Pogue, now that I have finished reading the book-who do you think did it?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:31:36 PM
DRJose, I worked with him in 2003 at the Chicago Humanities Festival. and he sang the Eubie Blake things beautifully.  Nice man, to boot!

Good to hear.  I guess the few times I've heard him in person, he was doing more pop-oriented material.  Yes, sometimes it calls for a more over-the-top approach, but I found it was always over-the-top.

Didn't he have a Tribute-type show off-Broadway last year?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 03:32:00 PM
George, before we moved out of our bedroom again I checked if the DVD of SAMANTHA worked, and it does.  Thank you.  Not Keith’s sort of movie.  I will watch it some afternoon by myself.

And you're welcome, too!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 03:32:28 PM
Okay, the other composers were: Tony Hatch (presumably with Jackie Trent), Andre Previn and Dory Langdon, and Rod McKuen.

I can't wait to hear this stuff again, especially the Previn tracks.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:33:39 PM
DR RLP - FEEL BETTER VIBES!

-Hope you get some sun up in NoCal soon too!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 03:37:41 PM

Didn't he have a Tribute-type show off-Broadway last year?

That sounds right, but I have no memory of it.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 03:37:46 PM
 

Another Shaffer play I'd like to see is GIFT OF THE GORGON, which played London in '94 and, to my knowledge, hasn't been revived since.  It is the single greatest play I've read in the last dozen years.

I pressume that means you didn't see it in London.

Caoline Rees reviews the  RSC Production (http://www.hunwicks.ndo.co.uk/RV%20The%20Gift%20of%20the%20Gorgon.htm): (excerpts)

Quote
The combatants here are playwright Edward Damson and his wife/muse Helen; the play opens with the former’s coffin being carried from their Greek villa. His son Philip (the abandoned product of a two-week fling) turns up and persuades his stepmother to feed him the material for a biography of the dead dramatist. She agrees, but warns he will hate what he hears.
 
Their turbulent life together is enacted as Helen recalls it, with Philip scribbling furiously in the background. Initially they exist on a diet of sex and Shakespeare, but eventually a completed script is required to pay the rent

The acting is first rate and draining. As Edward, an impulsive, dogmatic, extravagant ‘wastrel’, Michael Pennington is variously splattered in blood, water and red wine. He hollers, pleads and dances, but for all the exasperating characteristics of the role, Pennington is compulsive viewing. Helen is another of Judi Dench’s sensible women trying to stay in control, and she mixes it with hurt and stony fury impeccably. Jeremy Northam is suitably on-edge as Philip, shifting from one foot to the other with nervous anticipation. There’s also an eccentric cameo from Michael Poole as Edward’s racist Russian father, chattering away about the “real McCoy-ski” and the “nigg-skis” upstairs.
 
Peter Hall directs this meaty RSC production like a dog shaking a squeaky toy, enticing every ounce of energy out of the actors and the stark space of The Pit. Whether Shaffer is arguing that revenge or reason is right, or whether he’s not so sure that it’s a black-and-white choice, the audience was hotly philosophising all the way out. And that has to be success enough.

A reader comment at  Amazon  (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0670850691/qid=1105485652/sr=8-1/ref=sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl14/104-2409302-0072766?v=glance&s=books&n=507846) says:

Quote
I saw this play many years ago when it first opened in London & was completely blown away by it (didn't hurt to have 2 fabulous actors playing the leads - Judi Dench for one). I subsequently bought the book & it reads just as well. I am only sorry that because of difficulties with Actors equity it hasn't yet been performed in New York.
The themes of love and revenge are dealt with in ways both tender and terrible. It gets you in the gut.

Again I presume - the "difficulties" are casting Dame Judy in the USA?

And about this writer's problem with "exist(ing) on a diet of sex and Shakespeare".....?

der Brucer (with another play on his Amazon "wish list")

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:39:30 PM
RE: CHESS - There's a bootleg of that Long Beach production floating out there.  It's one of my favorite performances by Jodi Benson, as well as Marcia Mitzman - IIRC.

I keep meaning to check in with others who saw the Broadway production during it's run.  Apparently, the ending of the show changed a few times during the preview period.  One ending had Florence singing a version of "Anthem" after she had just realized she had been betrayed by both the USSR and the USA.  Works for me.  -And with Judy Kuhn singing that...

I also remember that CHESS was one of the first musicals to open right after the smoking ban was instituted in NYC.  There was a bit in the show for the Russian "leader" where he stepped to the lip of the stage, lit his cigar, and said something along the lines of, "I can't believe I'm not allowed to smoke in the hall."  Apparently, the line got cheers and applause some nights.

;)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 03:40:09 PM

Mickey Rooney--there's your Marryin' Sam!

Then we have to make room for Ann Miller!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JoseSPiano on January 11, 2005, 03:42:07 PM
OK - I need to run an errand... And then I should get started on my baking for the evening... I think...

Laters...
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 03:44:29 PM
Was it on this Board that someone mentioned there's a 2CD Chips soundtrack due this year?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 03:49:12 PM
Sorry if I'm repeating something that was posted here already (I know I read about this recently but I can't recall where--oy), but, yes, Chips is due out by FSM soon.  Here's a link:

http://www.petulaclark.net/ipcsnews.html#chipscd
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: George on January 11, 2005, 03:49:19 PM
Thanks, George.  Gifthorse time:  if you feel like sending me 1776, I'll trade something to be determined at a later date.  Am I still on the What If list?

I can, and...um...you are now! :-[
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 03:49:44 PM
Ron aka RLP you changed your posting name again. :D

TCB at least the reviewer states “Tom Birkeland, doing powerful work”
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 03:49:54 PM
And I love Blythe Danner.  I always have.

Have you been watching her in HUFF?

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Joey on January 11, 2005, 03:56:30 PM
. It's back!!! It's back!!!!!! I feel complete again! Our cable was restored while I was down in Indy for my neurologist appointment. No more having to go to the library to check email and feeling disconnected from the world. It will take me a few days to get back in the swing of things though.

Since I forgot to answer it earlier, I would love to see Of Thee I Sing done as a revival. I am not exactly sure why right now, btu it is a gut feeling. Maybe I'll be able to figure out why my gut wishes it to be revived later, but I am extremely sleepy so I think I will take a power nap or I'll never make it through the rest of this evening.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 03:59:45 PM
The office and the big computer are mine, ;D for now. Keith and our contractor are playing pool.  I am so glad to be out of the other room where the dust from the work is bothering my throat and making me congested.  They are sanding the new section of hardwood floor.  

Unfortunately now that my allergies have been triggered I will not be able to eat any nuts or other foods that might bother me.  The good news is I’m such a pig the box of cookies I received yesterday, with pecans and almonds, is just about gone already. :D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 04:00:31 PM
Welcome back Joey.  I hope your appointment went well.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 04:02:16 PM
That's it, JMK.  Didn't realize someone had spilled the beans yet.  It's going to be a great set, I think, but will not include any of the demos except for the already released Tony Hatch song.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 04:09:29 PM
Speaking of the box of goodies I received….this past week has been a very hard one for me, yet I feel so lucky to have met so many wonderful people here.  The outpouring of postings on this site, along with the many personal emails, cards, phone calls and gifts I received have made me feel very special and fortunate and have helped to fill a portion of the hole currently in my heart.  
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 04:21:51 PM
The wonderful soprano who plays Sutton and sings "Huxley."  I don't remember her name.


Her name is Stephanie Augustine and she reprised her role in the TV production  Max Liebman Presents - Lady in the Dark  (http://www.tvtome.com/tvtome/servlet/GuidePageServlet/showid-19553/epid-249603/):

Quote
Episode Number   2
First Aired   September 25, 1954
Writer   Billy Friedberg
Story   Moss Hart
Director   Max Liebman and Jeffrey Hayden
Producer   Max Liebman
Music   Kurt Weill
Production Designer   Frederick Fox
 
Guest Stars:
Ann Sothern   - Liza Elliot
James Daly   - Charley Johnson
Carleton Carpenter   - Russell Paxton
Luella Gear   - Maggie Grant
Paul McGrath   - Kendall Nesbitt
Shepherd Strudwick   - Dr. Alexander Brooks
Robert Fortier   - Randy Culver
Stephanie Augustine   - Miss Foster
Co Stars:
James Congdon   - Ben
Marjorie Barrett   - Barbara
Douglas Reid   - Liza's Father
Brook Byron   - Liza's Mother
Adele Newton   - Liza as a Girl
Bambi Linn   - Wedding Dream Ballet Dancer
Rod Alexander   - Wedding Dream Ballet Dancer

•  Adaptation of the 1941 Broadway hit, with music & lyrics by Kurt Weill & Ira Gershwin, book by Moss Hart.
•  Original TV cast soundtrack released by RCA (LM-1882) in 1954. This recording was done in a recording studio for a more polished sound on November 5, 1954. A CD of the soundtrack from the actual broadcast was issued by AEI Records (CD-041) on April 1, 1997.

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 04:23:27 PM
JMK I'm still waiting for a current photo of BeeJee.  He must have grown since I saw him.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 04:32:58 PM
der Brucer, I agree with you about ROYAL HUNT OF THE SUN.  Though I think Christopher Plummer is rather stunning in it, the movie just lays there like so much fish.  I do have a tape of it and I must say on a second viewing, it seemed better than the first time I saw it in a theatre when it first came out, but still...

I think the play is just one of those instrinsically "theatrical" pieces like Man of La Mancha where you need the imagination, stylization, and overt theatricality of the stage to make it soar.

No, I missed Gift of the Gorgon by a few months.  Did not even know of its existence until I encountered it in a bookshop in London.  I bought it because Shaffer, along with Stoppard, is maybe my favourite living playwright.

First off, Jane did you finally get into the book?  I think Buckingham did the deed.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 04:35:36 PM
JMK I'm still waiting for a current photo of BeeJee.  He must have grown since I saw him.

Sorry, our digital camera is the pits (remember from your visit?).  But, no, he hasn't grown, except possibly fatter.  :)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 04:38:44 PM

Unfortunately now that my allergies have been triggered I will not be able to eat any nuts or other foods that might bother me.  The good news is I’m such a pig the box of cookies I received yesterday, with pecans and almonds, is just about gone already. :D


Some fudge might be soothing, DRJane :D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 05:00:17 PM


I think the play is just one of those instrinsically "theatrical" pieces like Man of La Mancha where you need the imagination, stylization, and overt theatricality of the stage to make it soar.


It must be a Peter Shaffer thing!

I saw Equus in NY and was much more entertained than I was by the movie. (And I had the replace cast of Anthony Perkins)

I saw Amadeus in NY (and Woody and I saw it in LA), and although I really like the film, the stage production captured the soul.

We both saw Lettice and Lovage in London, and although a comedy, it was "pure" theatricality.

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Ben on January 11, 2005, 05:00:45 PM
Thanks DR George! I'll let you know when it arrives. I have burned the London Forum for you and as soon as the copying of the book is finished I will send it out to you.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: DERBRUCER on January 11, 2005, 05:03:37 PM
WARNING - CUDDABLES AHEAD!

Bean-bagging it by the computer:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/5911570/80583735.jpg)

Woody says let me get closer:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/5911570/80583729.jpg)

Notice - after the first shot, the ham knows he's on parade, so drags out his tail for the second!

der Brucer
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 05:07:14 PM
elmore sadly my fudge now gives me acid reflux and I need the dust to settle before I eat any with nuts.  I'm going to try making a batch with a different brand of chocolate and see if that helps.

I was going to make some tomorrow morning instead of joining my hiking group but I just received a call from the dentist and am getting my teeth cleaned instead.  If I don’t get back too late I will make some then.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 05:11:17 PM
And don't forget DRJANE you have Betty Hutton waiting on tape...and I think I put myself in a bit from LITTLE SHOP ON IT....or did I not...I forget.

DRELMORE - I would love the hear Ann singing that JENNY score as well.....

DRJMK you are correct.  I also saw the Petula Clark-Merv Griffin shows.  And yes it was "You and I" that she favored of the ballads.  A new CD of the soundtrack would be MOST welcome!!!

I am intrigued at the thought of a Previn CHIPS score.....and a Hatch CHIPS score.  Like DR CP I have nearly purchased the Cast Album, but then changed my mind....I will just listen to my LP until the CD comes out.

MBARNUM was your nephew on that show?  How did your interview go?  Does she know where Junie is hiding?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 05:12:58 PM
I second Ron's vote about not casting pop stars...IN ANYTHING!

You mean no Elvis Presley in Jailhouse Rock?  No Diana Ross in Lady Sings the Blues?  No Mick Jagger in Performance?  No Peggy Lee in Pete Kelly's Blues?
No Bette Midler in The Rose?  No Beatles in A Hard Day's Night?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 05:24:27 PM
Charles Pogue, I was relieved to learn at our discussion this morning I wasn’t the only person who had trouble following the book.  I did get more into it once the “wooly” researcher was introduced.  Honestly, I wasn’t concentrating very well and found my mind kept wondering.  I’m sure that would have happened with almost anything I had been reading this last week. Not the best state of mind to be in when reading a book with so many names involved-LOL.

I did have an odd reaction, I can’t recall now, when Buckingham was discussed.  Why do you think he did it?

I wish I had known yesterday to add more to our discussion today.  The woman leading it was stuck in L.A. due to the weather-surprise, surprise -and couldn’t fly home until this morning.  
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 05:33:40 PM
For DR Jane

Bears in Pernod.. Favourite desert of the 1970's.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 05:51:00 PM
Dear reader Jane has a much more fun book just sitting there like so much fish.  Hopefully, one day she will get to it.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 05:57:56 PM
Very well then, I'm on my way to a play.  Keep the home fries burning until my returning for which you'll be yearning.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Michael on January 11, 2005, 05:58:58 PM
First of all:

The majority of the score for Goodbye Mr. Chips is pretty good.

Fill the World With Love
Dear Old School Days
When I am Older

plus the above songs already mentioned by others in earlier postings.

The songs I do't think much of are:

Where Did My Childhood Go
Apollo
And the Sky Smiled
What A Lot of Flowers
What Should I Do Today
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Michael on January 11, 2005, 06:01:21 PM
Okay Mr. Musical people

What do think of combining Walk Through the World With Me and You And I as a medley?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Michael on January 11, 2005, 06:10:41 PM
For all those fans of Bernstein's Candide. There is a great sit dedicated to the work

BUT don't all rush at once to see it as it on geocities and too many viewers at once can shut down the site for overusage.

it covers all these productions

The Productions

1956 Broadway Production
1958 Concert Tour
1959 London Production
1966 UCLA Production
1968 New York Concert
1971 Touring Production
1974 Broadway Revival
1977 Tel Aviv Concert
1982 New York City Opera Production
1988 Scottish Opera Production
1989 Leonard Bernstein Recording
1994 St. Louis Production
1994 Lyric Opera of Chicago Production
1995 Los Angeles Production
1997 Broadway Revival
1998 London Symphony Concerts
1999 Royal National Theatre Production
2002 San Francisco Symphony Concerts
2003 UK Touring Production
2004 New York Philharmonic Concerts

and it lists all the songs and the variations and where they are place in the show. Below is a sample

0.9 Wedding Chorale
[uncredited]
1.0 Westphalia Chorale
[Bernstein / Wells]
1.5 Westphalia
[Bernstein / Wells]
1.7 Chorale
[uncredited]
1.9 Voltaire Chorale
[uncredited]

It also talks about the recordings as well

Cast Recordings
1956 Broadway Production
1974 Broadway Revival
1982 New York City Opera Production
1988 Scottish Opera Production
1989 Leonard Bernstein Recording
1997 Broadway Revival
1999 Royal National Theatre Production


http://www.geocities.com/bernsteincandide/index.html (http://www.geocities.com/bernsteincandide/index.html)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Michael on January 11, 2005, 06:17:29 PM
Oh saw Mr. Jason Graae last night. Had the audience in the palm of his hand. He was his usually funny self and sang beautifully. After the reception we talked about many things and dished about many people. Some of the people who came up in the course of conversation were Davis Gaines and a certain part of his anatomy. Tommy Tune, Carol Hall The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. In turns out that the gentleman who runs the theater appeared on Broadway and on tour as one of the Aggies. He is even in apicture in the oversize coffee table book More Broadway Musicals
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 06:27:09 PM
Okay Mr. Musical people

What do think of combining Walk Through the World With Me and You And I as a medley?

It would be fine, but I usually like to combine songs that can comment on each other or give some sort of dramatic tension, which I'm not sure these two could do (although just as a standard duet, they'd probably be marvy).  
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 06:29:21 PM
Dear reader Jane has a much more fun book just sitting there like so much fish.  Hopefully, one day she will get to it.

I’m sure that is very true, but you don’t want me reading the book until I’m focused again. :-[ ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 06:54:50 PM
Tomovoz-thanks for the last picture. :D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jrand73 on January 11, 2005, 06:57:27 PM
DR MS thanks for the CANDIDE link!

I think I have heard a Walk/You and I medley....hmmmmmmm....could be a dream though.

NO SPOILER

The Amazing Race is another winner tonight!  Makes your heart race!  
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 06:59:23 PM
And don't forget DRJANE you have Betty Hutton waiting on tape...and I think I put myself in a bit from LITTLE SHOP ON IT....or did I not...I forget.


I think you did.  We have so much viewing to catch up on.  I noticed the tape this morning and realized I once again need to wait until we can return to the bedroom to watch it.  

Oh no!  I left all four of our Netflix DVD's in there and I can't retrieve them.  We are also in the middle of a movie saved on TIVO.  Nothing like having to wait three or four days to watch the end of it.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Jane on January 11, 2005, 07:00:22 PM
Speaking of catching up-off to get clean the kitchen.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 07:08:56 PM
Dan the Man...There are rock stars and there are rock stars.  Let me amend my statement to mean today's current crop of so-called rock stars...who aren't rock stars at all, but pop stars who half the time aren't really singing...or, if they are, they are having their anemic vocals and frail beauty contestant trills, tweaked and supported and amplified by all sorts of technical sleight-of-hand.  

But I hear enough pop vocalization in the theatre now with supposed legitimate singers (not to mention pop composing).  Let's not encourage it.

The last good rock Broadway show I saw was Smokey Joe's Cafe.  But then Stoller & Leiber are real rock and roll, not Britney Spears et al.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 07:14:15 PM
...Who do we have today like a Maurice Evans?
Nathan Lane has the same built.  Sorta.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 07:27:14 PM
I'm back for a minute or two - still writing. Re CANDIDE: I saw a terrific production at the Central City Opera House in Colorado. Might have been in 2000. Not sure. Central City is an old mining town up in the mountains, about 30 minutes from Boulder. The opera house has been beautifully restored and they have a wonderful season every summer. There's gambling up there, too. A little something for all tastes. I like both gambling and the opera, so it was perfection for me.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 07:30:08 PM
Firm Polenta is the title of my new novel.
Does that make the subtitle Tough Grits?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 07:38:03 PM
I'm back for a minute or two - still writing. Re CANDIDE: I saw a terrific production at the Central City Opera House in Colorado. Might have been in 2000. Not sure. Central City is an old mining town up in the mountains, about 30 minutes from Boulder. The opera house has been beautifully restored and they have a wonderful season every summer. There's gambling up there, too. A little something for all tastes. I like both gambling and the opera, so it was perfection for me.

DRPanni, my friend William Burden may have been the Candide in that production.  Wonderful tenor and actor, his wife Carol did GREENWILLOW with mr at the Utah Festival  Opera in 1997.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: JMK on January 11, 2005, 07:39:43 PM
DRPanni, my friend William Burden may have been the Candide in that production.  Wonderful tenor and actor, his wife Carol did GREENWILLOW with mr at the Utah Festival  Opera in 1997.

Where is Utah Festival Opera, Elmoore?  I grew up in SLC and got my BA from the University of Utah which has, though some may scoff, a very fine music department.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 08:08:25 PM
Where is Utah Festival Opera, Elmoore?  I grew up in SLC and got my BA from the University of Utah which has, though some may scoff, a very fine music department.

It's in Logan, and I enjoyed my 3-4 weeks there quite a lot.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Michael on January 11, 2005, 08:10:48 PM
Need to clarify an earlier post as I have received several emails.

When we talked about Mr. Gaines we talking about the extensive work done to his face. I remember when he was good looking.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on January 11, 2005, 08:16:11 PM
Dan the Man...There are rock stars and there are rock stars.  Let me amend my statement to mean today's current crop of so-called rock stars...who aren't rock stars at all, but pop stars who half the time aren't really singing...or, if they are, they are having their anemic vocals and frail beauty contestant trills, tweaked and supported and amplified by all sorts of technical sleight-of-hand.  

But I hear enough pop vocalization in the theatre now with supposed legitimate singers (not to mention pop composing).  Let's not encourage it.

The last good rock Broadway show I saw was Smokey Joe's Cafe.  But then Stoller & Leiber are real rock and roll, not Britney Spears et al.

Okay, I see what you meant and I agree 100%.  Unfortunately, I believe that this type of pop vocalizing is going to become firmly entrenched in musical theatre.  Market-savvy producers (theatre and record company execs) will eventually pounce on the chance to have their own amusment park attractions on Broadway (and on tour) that will be little more than American Idol with a plotline.  Brooklyn, the Musical has already opened that door.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 08:23:25 PM
Thank you, DR George, for your work to supply many of us with delicious artsy morsels that we can enjoy. You have been indeed a busy bee.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 08:26:15 PM
My heart must have skipped a beat for a moment tonight during LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT. Christopher Meloni's character was talking of leaving the unit and, thus, the series. Luckily his character had something of a change of heart by the end of the episode.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Matt H. on January 11, 2005, 08:40:03 PM
THE ROYAL HUNT OF THE SUN was released on DVD during the early years of DVD, and the disc is pretty wretched. A badly scarred print was used for the transfer, and nothing had been done to clean it up at all.

Now, I usually don't mind letterboxing at all, but the encoders used royal blue letterbox bars rather than black, and I find them very, very distracting.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Kerry on January 11, 2005, 08:45:51 PM
Bruce,

Why don't you record a whole Tony Hatch album?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: MBarnum on January 11, 2005, 08:49:26 PM
Justs saw that LADY IN A CAGE will be out on DVD next month...along with RETURN TO PEYTON PLACE! My credit card is just itching to get used!!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 08:52:00 PM
THE ROYAL HUNT OF THE SUN was released on DVD during the early years of DVD, and the disc is pretty wretched. A badly scarred print was used for the transfer, and nothing had been done to clean it up at all.
That's the release der Brucer watched.  He was not a happy camper.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: elmore3003 on January 11, 2005, 08:53:46 PM
I see my friends Donna Lynn Champlin and Danny Burstein are in HAROLD AND MAUDE at Papermill.  I need to hie myself out there and catch it.

Good night, all!
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 08:56:40 PM
THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS

Prologue

   The last conversation Lord Chutney had with his wife was one that they had had many times before that fateful day when the entire household was to congregate in the kitchen of Lord Chutney's manor house, summoned by the frantic screams of the maid Hermione upon discovering the corpse of her master, the erstwhile Lord Marston Chutney of Stoughington Manor.
   It took place mere hours before he was to be killed. Hermione heard the whole conversation from her quarters where she was donning her gardening clothes. She was going to tend her garden, out near the stables where Squire Meyer was hard at work, before gathering some of her prize-winning leeks to prepare for Lord Chutney's favorite meal, sugared leeks on toast.
   "But Millicent," she heard Lord Chutney saying to his wife. "What would the neighbors think?"
   "What neighbors?" countered Lady Chutney. "The closest building to the manor is a mile away. And it's a group home for recovering Bingo addicts. Who cares what they would think? And how would they ever know?"
   But still, Lord Chutney could not allow it. For social reasons, he could not allow it. For personal reasons, he could not allow it. He simply could not allow his wife, the respected Lady Millicent Chutney of Stoughington Manor, to become a balloon animal artist. It simply wasn't done. It just wasn't proper for the wife of a lord to twist inflatable sacs of plasticized rubber into giraffes and flamingos. He simply could not allow it.
   Seething with anger and overcome with hatred for her husband, Lady Chutney vowed that she would be rid of him once and for all. She would be rid of him and then would be free to fulfill her life-long dream and create hippos and parrots from balloons for the rest of her days. Yes, she was desperate to be rid of Marston Chutney. But was she desperate enough to commit... murder?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 08:57:07 PM
Chapter One

   From the stables where he was brushing the horses, Squire Meyer could hear Hermione talking to herself in the garden.
   "I will never understand those two," Hermione was saying to her prize-winning leeks as she was gathering them for dinner. "She wants to make balloon animals, but he won't let her because it isn't proper. Isn't proper! He's one to talk!" she said severely to the leek she was holding in her hand before looking it over and putting it in the basket with the other leeks. "Oh, for what he's done to me, I can just kill him!"
   She contined muttering to herself and, furious with her master, left the garden to begin making dinner. Squire Meyer was left all by himself in the stables with Lord Chutney's mare, Love-in-Disguise, with a thoughtful expression on his face as he brushed the horse's glossy coat and pondered over what he had just overheard Hermione saying to her prizewinning leeks.

   Hermione walked along the path leading from the stables to the kitchen door, fantasizing about steeping Lord Chutney's leeks in rat poison before serving them to him, sugared, on toast, that evening. A sinister smile found its way to her lips.
   Outside the kitchen door were the two "boys" of Stoughington Manor, Master Cheltham Chutney and his cousin, Wallaby Willoughby. Hermione's sinister smile softened as she spied Master Cheltham, who was trying to stand on his head and was failing miserably. This is who would inherit Stoughington Manor if Lord Chutney were to die. Beside Master Cheltham, Wallaby was sitting in the grass reading a very thick book that said "Tolstoy" on it. Hermione snorted. Another one of those high-falutin' Greeks. Wallaby had come to live at Stoughington Manor when he was a baby and his mother, Lady Chutney's sister Philippa, had disappeared. She had gone swimming one day less than an hour after eating and had never been seen again.
   Wallaby, Hermione didn't care for. He was so polite, so modest, so intelligent. It was the proud, empty-headed son of Lord Chutney that she favored. And why shouldn't she? After all, she was the boy's mother.

   Nineteen years earlier, she had turned down the pleadings of one Lord Marston Chutney, whom she had met while living at the group home for Bingo addicts. He had come to volunteer at the home for court-ordered community service because of an incident involving a horse and a plate of little baby corns, pickled beets, cucumbers, chow mein noodles, cheese, and ranch dressing. It was only after he promised to take her to live at his manor with him that she succumbed to him. It was only after she had arrived at Stoughington Manor that she had learned of Lady Chutney, to whom Marston had introduced Hermione as the manor's new maid and cook. Livid and shocked at the turn of events, Hermione had confronted Marston about what he had done.
   "I promised you that you could live here," he had said to her, "and you will. We needed a new cook anyway. Our butler Cutler has been preparing our meals, and he insists on making something called floop."
   "But all I can cook is leeks," she had told him, "sugared, on toast."
   "Well, anything is better than floop," had been his response.
   She had stayed at Stoughington Manor for fear of angering Lord Chutney if she left. She wished now that she had left, for after her son was born, the result of her first meeting with Lord Chutney, he had taken the baby away and given him to Lady Chutney to raise as her own son. (Lady Chutney had been rendered barren by an incident involving some of Cutler's floop and the horse, Three-Grain-Scone, the mother of Love-in-Disguise. That was all Hermione knew about the incident. Lady Chutney didn't like to talk about it.)
   So for nineteen years, Hermione had worked her fingers to the bone, cleaning Stoughington Manor and cooking leeks, sugared, on toast, for Lord and Lady Chutney, watching her son grow into a dim-witted fool whose only goal in life was to learn to stand on his head.
   Yes, for what Lord Chutney had done to her, she could kill him.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 08:57:37 PM
Chapter Two

   Back in the stables, Squire Meyer had finished brushing and feeding Love-in-Disguise and was preparing to go back to the house to get something to eat from the kitchen. He walked past the garden and along the path that led to the kitchen door. Outside the kitchen, he saw Wallaby reading a book, while Cheltham was yet again unsuccessfully attempting to stand on his head.
   Cheltham, he didn't care for. He was so foolish, so stupid. It was the quiet and studious nephew of Lord and Lady Chutney that he prefered. And why shouldn't he? After all, he was the boy's father.

   Nineteen years earlier, he had met Philippa Willoughby when she came to visit her sister Millicent at Stoughington Manor. Nine months later, she had faked her own death so that her son would be sent to live with his aunt and uncle. That way, he could be near his father, and she would be free to pursue a career in celebrity impersonation. She and Meyer had arranged it all. She had eaten a Lean Cuisine meal and, exactly four and a half minutes later, went swimming and slipped away, out of her son's life forever.
   No one knew that Wallaby was the son of Squire Meyer except the squire himself, and, of course, Philippa Willoughby, who was currently in Las Vegas doing eight shows a week as the world's first white female James Brown impersonator.
   Now that he was of age, as nephew of Lord Chutney, Wallaby was next in line after Cheltham as heir of Stoughington Manor. "Imagine, the son of a squire inheriting a manor," thought Squire Meyer as Cheltham once again toppled onto his face. "But only if something befalls Lord Chutney and that dim-wit Cheltham."
   Suddenly no longer hungry and with a new idea in his head, Squire Meyer entered the kitchen. When he opened the door, the leeks were cooking on the stove and Hermione was on her tip-toes reaching for something on the top shelf of a cupboard opposite the door. Her hand grasped what she was looking for, a bottle.
   Squire Meyer shut the door behind him. Startled at the sound, Hermione turned around quickly to see who had entered the kitchen. Seeing it was Squire Meyer, she hastily set the bottle on the counter behind the toaster.
   "Oh, h-h-hello, S-s-squire," she stuttered as she moved toward the stove. "The leeks will be done in a few minutes. I'm adding the sugar now" and she added some sugar from the canister next to the stove.
   "Don't mind me," said Squire Meyer. "I just need a knife so I can, uh, cut up Love-in-Disguise's carrots... Yeah, that's it." He opened the drawer nearest the toaster and took out the biggest butcher knife he could find. Peering behind the toaster, he saw that the bottle Hermione had hidden there was of rat poison.
   Before he left the kitchen, he asked Hermione, "Could you tell Lord Chutney that I'd like to see him in the stables before dinner? I want to, uh, show him something. It's about Love-in-Disguise," he added.
   "Oh, sure," said Hermione distractedly, with her eye on the toaster.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 08:58:09 PM
Chapter Three

   In the dining room adjacent to the kitchen, the butler, Cutler, was setting the table for dinner. Leeks, sugared, on toast. Just like they had been eating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, every day for nineteen years. He wondered what Lord Chutney liked about leeks (sugared, on toast). Why, before this Hermione had come to Stoughington Manor and replaced Cutler as cook, the Chutneys had breakfasted, lunched, snacked, and dined on Cutler's culinary masterpiece, floop. How could Lord Chutney prefer Hermione's leeks (sugared, on toast) to floop- the only salad/casserole/finger-food known to man that leaves your fingers pink and you wanting more?
   Cutler didn't understand it. And it made him angry. Very angry. Angry at Hermione, at her leeks (sugared, on toast), but mostly, angry at Lord Chutney, who didn't know a good meal when he saw one. And his anger just had to be quenched.
   Setting down the last fork, Cutler looked at the candles on the table and got an idea. Every evening, the family ate its dinner of leeks (sugared, on toast) by candlelight, by candles lit by Cutler himself, with matches that he right this very moment had in his pocket. His hand touched his pocket, felt the matches within, and an evil grin spread across his face.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 08:58:40 PM
Chapter Four

   After she had finished preparing the leeks and Squire Meyer had left the kitchen, Hermione felt the call of nature and hurried to the bathroom to answer it. She walked through the dining room, where Cutler was standing with his hand resting on his jacket pocket and a resolute expression resting on his face.
   When she had passed through the dining room, Cutler stole into the kitchen and spied the leeks he despised so much on the counter, ready to be served. Looking around him to make sure he was alone, Cutler emptied the tureen of leeks (sugared, on toast) into a Tupperware bowl and carried it out the door and along the path leading to the garden and the stables. Outside the kitchen, he saw Wallaby Willoughby reading a book and Cheltham Chutney falling off his head. Would he never learn to balance properly? The oaf! And that Wallaby was a sissy. Cutler didn't like either one of those boys. And why should he? After all, he wasn't their father or anything.
   When Cutler entered the stables, Squire Meyer, who had been pacing nervously, quickly faced him, raising a large butcher knife. He lowered it when he saw who had entered.
   "Is Lord Chutney on his way here?" he asked Cutler.
   "Not that I know of," replied the butler.
   "Oh, well, then, I'll just go look for him, shall I?" said the squire absently as he left the stables in search of his master.
   Alone in the stables with only Love-in-Disguise and the Tupperware bowl of leeks (sugared, on toast), Cutler approached the horse, holding the bowl out in front of him.
   "Here's dinner, Love-in-Disguise," he cooed, presenting the bowl to the mare. A maniacal joy overtook him as he watched the horse devour the leeks (sugared, on toast) that he had grown to despise. After the bowl was licked clean, he went out to the garden to trample all the leeks growing there. Never again would he have to eat leeks (sugared, on toast) instead of his one pride and joy, his masterpiece, floop!
   High on the pleasure he got from destroying the offending vegetables and the knowledge that his despicable master would soon be up in flames, he was startled to hear a scream coming from the house. He ran back to the house, entering through the kitchen door and found Hermione and Lady Chutney standing over lifeless body of Lord Marston Chutney.
   "How did this happen?" he shrieked. "Who saw him last?"
   "I had just seen him in the hallway after I went to the facilities," said the maid, "and I told him that Squire Meyer wanted to see him in the stables. He must have been on his way there when... when..."
   Squire Meyer now entered the scene, trying to conceal a very large butcher knife down his pants and having a very hard time of it. He looked just as puzzled as everybody else.
   "Wh-wh-what?" he stuttered as he joined the others around the body, wincing as he tried to walk with a butcher knife stuck halfway down his pants. It was a valiant effort.
   Everyone was speechless.
   Finally, the two boys, Cheltham, rubbing his head from having spent another unsuccessful day trying to stand on it, and Wallaby, with his finger marking his place in his book, walked into the kitchen.
   "Is Dad all right?" Cheltham asked when he saw his father on the floor.
   "No, you dip-stick, he's dead," said his cousin, who was smart enough to see that. "So, which one of you got him?" he asked, turning to the rest of the household- Squire Meyer with his clean and not-at-all bloodstained butcher knife, which he had finally taken out of his pants, to the relief of everyone in the room; Cutler, with his still complete and not-at-all singed book of matches; Hermione, with her empty bottle of rat poison; and Lady Chutney, who was kicking herself for not having procured a murder weapon like all the others had.
   "He must have eaten the leeks, (poisoned, on toast)," said Hermione, seeing that the tureen was empty.
   "No, he didn't," said Cutler, "because I took the leeks, and- did you say 'poisoned'?!"
   Hermione nodded, and Cutler rushed out the door and toward the stables. Everyone else followed, except Lord Chutney, of course, because he was dead.
   And so was Love-in-Disguise, as it turned out. Did you know that rat poison can kill a horse?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 08:59:07 PM
Epilogue

   Not that anyone cared, so overcome with grief were they all at the loss of such a fine mare as Love-in-Disguise, not to mention all of Hermione's prize-winning leeks, but, as Cheltham reported later, he had seen his father walk into the kitchen and trip and hit his head on the floor because his shoelace was untied. He saw this, he said, through the kitchen window while he was standing on his head, successfully, for the very first time in his eighteen year life. Wallaby had missed it because he had been reading, but congratulated his cousin nonetheless.
   Now that Lord Chutney was dead, the others were all free to do whatever they wanted. Lady Chutney became a balloon animal artist and made balloons into walruses and barn owls all day and was extremely happy.
   Hermione went to Las Vegas, where Philippa Willoughby got her a job as the world's first white female Eddie Murphy impersonator. She played Bingo on her days off because she had never really gotten over her addiction.
   Cutler, the butler, made floop all day long and delivered it to the group home down the street as court-ordered community service for an incident involving a horse and a bowl of leeks, poisoned and sugared, on toast.
   Cheltham Chutney inherited Stoughington Manor, but said his cousin could have it because he didn't want it. All he wanted was to stand on his head all day. And that is exactly what he did.
   Wallaby Willoughby became lord of the manor, which pleased his father, Squire Meyer, to no end. He confessed to Wallaby that he was, in fact, his father, and the two of them ran things at Stoughington Manor quite nicely. They got a new horse and named her Leeks-Sugared-On-Toast. She was a good horse, but really couldn't compare to Love-in-Disguise, who really was such a loss.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 09:16:15 PM
Wonderful work Sandra.  I hope your teachers appreciate you. Perhaps they are on the same medication.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 09:29:06 PM
Wonderful work Sandra.  I hope your teachers appreciate you. Perhaps they are on the same medication.

speaking of medication Tomofoz .. the nurse asked me to check that you have taken yours today ...

.. remember, lights out at 7 !!!!

(nursing home rules)

 ;D
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 09:31:11 PM
speaking of medication Tomofoz .. the nurse asked me to check that you have taken yours today ...

.. remember, lights out at 7 !!!!

(nursing home rules)

 ;D
Were you Louise FLetcher in a previous life or just an assistant to Dr Phibes?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: ozderek on January 11, 2005, 09:34:37 PM
Were you Louise FLetcher in a previous life or just an assistant to Dr Phibes?

Previous life?  Previous?

I AM LOUISE FLETCHER!!!!!

 :o
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: TCB on January 11, 2005, 09:35:49 PM
Were you Louise FLetcher in a previous life or just an assistant to Dr Phibes?

Okay, guys!  Which one is Bud and which one is Lou?
[/b]
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Sandra on January 11, 2005, 09:37:44 PM
Thank you, Tom.

Good bye, everybody. I have a sudden craving for some leeks. Sugared, on toast.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Tomovoz on January 11, 2005, 09:38:01 PM
I shall not skip to my Lou then.

In fact To Lou's  I shall not treck at all.

I know real fear.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 09:55:40 PM
Well - I'm glad I came back for that! That was a real treat, DR Sandra! Wonderful. You are gloriously wacky. And that is one of the highest compliments that I can pay.
(PSYCHO made me afraid to shower. Your story had made me afraid to eat leeks. Is nothing sacred?)
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 10:24:01 PM
Back from the play, about which more later.

Sandra gets a haineshisway.com Gold Star.

Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 10:24:31 PM
What have you all been doing this evening?

Did Ann catch up?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 10:29:04 PM
Writing.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 10:30:06 PM
And water polo.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 10:30:52 PM
Der B and I are off early tomorrow, another ladsitting gig.  So I'm a big fat wussburger!   ;D

The only part that bothers me is that work continues tomorrow on the lot they're clearing next door - and there's a big ol' tree that has to come down carefully, to make sure it doesn't come down on our house!  I'd rather be here this time.  Not that my pushing in the other direction would help much (it IS a BIG ol' tree).
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 10:36:42 PM
Oh, dinner tonight was tonkatsu: pork cutlets that are breaded in panko, deep-fried, and served with a special dipping sauce.  It was quite yummilicious.

Der B was particularly happy with the sauce: equal parts Worcestershire, sugar, soy sauce and ketchup, seasoned with a little French mustard and a little bit of allspice.  Sweet, spicy, tangy all at the same time.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: S. Woody White on January 11, 2005, 10:37:26 PM
What kind of dance am I supposed to propose to go with pork cutlets?   ???
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 11:26:28 PM
No posts in an hour???  WUSSBURGERS ON PARADE.  Maybe some late-nighters  will come back - I've been having ever so much fun during our late-night extravaganzas.  Plus, as you'll read in the notes, I've got a roaring headache, so I won't be going to sleep any time soon.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 11:31:31 PM
Sorry to hear of raroring headache (I'll leave the typo).

      ****HEALING HEAD VIBES****
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Charles Pogue on January 11, 2005, 11:41:23 PM
A roaring headache...the play was that bad?
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 11:43:17 PM
I was writing away today, minding my own business, when I looked up from my computer to see a strange woman standing at my door. (The window of my office, right beside my desk,  looks out on my front balcony/porch.)
SW was carrying a flashlight - and as it was around noon - this seemed unusual. She introduced herself and said she was from the Health Department and was investigating the Case of the Rats. She was not at liberty to say who had called her in. (Hmmm - could it have been the people downstairs? - the only other people in the house. The ones with the rats.) Anyway, she gave me a pamphlet with a picture of an ugly rat on it, looked around my sparklingly clean RAT FREE premises and said she would be back in a month. She said that rats are springing up all over the place in LA this year. One old lady had lived in the same house for 40 years. Never a rodent. Until now. Yuck! If I wanted rats I'd move to New York!
The landlord needs to do a few things in my place to make sure it remains RAT FREE and she was sending him a stern letter telling him to do these very things.
The End.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: bk on January 11, 2005, 11:43:58 PM
Actually, as you'll read shortly, the play was very good.  The headache started coming on as I got to the theater.  On the way there, I decided I didn't want to go.  But I'm glad I did.
Title: Re:THE MYSTERY OF THE LEEKS
Post by: Panni on January 11, 2005, 11:54:25 PM
Guess, I'll stick around and read the notes. It would be downright churlish to leave now.