DR JRand, I agree that casting a stage musical via TV auditions/game show is unconventional to say the least, but I'm not so sure it's ludicrous. The NBC series has been poorly produced, it's true, but they've had real talent on that stage, and for me, that's NEVER to be snickered at.
The initial foray into this unconventional method of casting - THE SOUND OF MUSIC reality show that led to its revival in London - worked like gangbusters over there. The show is a smash hit and a new star was born. I don't blame them for trying it over here, too, since the IDOL format has gone over so well there and here.
But GREASE is coming back too soon, I think, and I don't expect the show to run long. I think they were limited, however, by trying to find a very popular show that would connect with mainstream America as a TV vehicle first and then as a tourist show for Broadway. WEST SIDE STORY might have worked better since it hasn't been revived as recently as GREASE.
And, if nothing else, we've gotten to see a crop of talented guys and gals that I might never have gotten a chance to see. I hope some TV casting agents have been watching.
