First runner-up pro production:
Into The Woods at the Long Beach Civic Light Opera. The woods were painted day-glo. And the Witch was played by Leslie Uggams. Every time she finished a number, she threw her arms open wide and smiled even more widely. Wrong, absolutely wrong.
Winner, worst pro production:
Fashion, at the Alex Theater, in Glendale, CA. A wretched show, with terrible music. The premise was that the ladies of some social club have decided to put on a recreation of an early musical called "Fashion," and the whole thing is staged as a rehearsal for such event. No costumes, just clothes these ladies have "worn". A total bore from start to end, even with Dale Kristien in the lead. Making matters worse, this was a replacement show for the rep company that was using the Alex, so we had bought season tix and had this foisted upon us. The rep company folded shortly after.
Oddly, as notorious a flop as this show was, a
cast recording was made. I have never been so curious as to seek out a copy. (I do own a copy of
Bed and Sofa, however.)