Steve On Broadway (SOB)

Cabaret's Conservative Casting Choices

Cabaret's Conservative Casting Choices

Forget all the chatter about bold casting choices for Rufus Norris' upcoming London revival of Cabaret. Everyone from Eddie Izzard to Natalie Portman were rumored for the pivotal role of Sally Bowles.

In the end, established dramatic actress Anna Maxwell-Martin will assume the role; English comedic actor James Dreyfus will portray the emcee. American actor Michael Hayden, who previously cut his teeth on the Cliff Bradshaw character in Sam Mendes' celebrated revival of Cabaret, will return to that role. So much for throwing caution to the wind.

Thankfully, one rumor that proved to be founded in fact was the casting of Sheila Hancock as Fraulein Schneider. It was Hancock's incredible performance as Miss Hannigan in the original 70's mounting of Annie in London that first whetted my theatrical appetite that remains insatiable to this day. I'd love to take in this new production if only to see Hancock once again.

Previews for this classic John Kander/Fred Ebb musical begin at the West End's Lyric Theatre on September 22 with a opening night set for October 10.

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Related Stories:
Another Cabaret? It Couldn't Please Me More (July 5, 2006)

Labels: Cabaret, London, Musical, Revival

posted by Steve On Broadway (SOB) @ Friday, August 18, 2006