05.04.07
Water Cooler Beef
The following is an exchange from the musical “RENT” by Jonathan Larson:
Maureen - “I think we need an agent”
Joanne - “That’s selling out.”
Mark - “But it’s nice to dream.”
For those who haven’t seen, heard, read or otherwise ingested the plot of “RENT,” the musical is, in content, extremely anti selling out. The premise centers around main characters Roger and Mark, who’s plight is more or less the inability to pay their monthly Rent, which was promised to be free by their landlord and ex-roommate Benny. Benny has, since moving out, married into a wealthy land owning family and it goes on from there.
RENT is currently touring on no less than 3 runs in addition to the long running play on Broadway as well as the development of a “milder” version of the show to be put on by high schools. So here is my question: With all the revenue being generated by these numerous shows, not to mention the full length motion picture released last year, how can “RENT” possibly be considered a show that has not sold out? Especially when the show’s integrity and quality has been compromised by using actors who can’t handle such strenuous emotional roles. I experienced this first hand a few weekends back and was appalled at the lack of quality, the blown lines, the lack of energy, etc. It was like watching a Tuesday matinee of “Cats” with the 4th string Mr. Mistofeles. No fun whatsoever and a gigantic waste of money. Take this as a caution if you plan to see any future touring edition of “RENT.” At the very least make sure to see a Saturday evening show when you’re at least guaranteed to get the “A Team” of cast members, otherwise spring for the trip to the N-Y-C. You won’t be sorry.
Speaking of people who are sorry, go here. Seriously, I never would’ve guessed this chick was a stripper living with her drug dealer boyfriend/baby’s daddy in a trailer park. Remember the other day when I said “Some people are just asking for it?” Case in point. Whatever “it” is.
While we’re talking about people deserving of bad fortune, lets bring up the Damn Yankees. In fact, I have an activity for you. Go ESPN’s MLB Home Page and try to find the Headline that talks about the Indians sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays. Yes that’s right, the team that was 2 games back of the Red Sox for 1st place in the AL East and is still (after losing 3 straight and the Yankees winning 3 straight) tied for 2nd, lost 3 in a row to the surging Tribe, the hottest team in baseball, having won 10 of 11. The lone loss was a protested game that by all accounts (except for the office of the commissioner) should have been replayed. So the Indians are on fire and have the best record by percentage IN THE MAJORS. So find the headline about our sweep and winning yet another series. Give up? That’s because it’s not there. However the Yanks sweep of the lowly Texas Rangers (one game ahead of the KC Royals for worst record in the majors) is plastered in the headlines. Call me crazy, but something is wrong here. Give the damn team some credit, and while you’re at it, throw some propers in for the Milwaukee Brewers for their great start. I hate politics and I hate the Yankees.
Finally, I end on a somber note. I woke up this morning to find plastered on the front page of the local newspaper that yet another Army Officer had been killed in Combat in Iraq, this time it was a long time client of mine. Lane was always the most polite and well spoken guy and seemed to truly believe he was serving a greater purpose. If more people would instinctively do their part to make the world a better place, the world might just actually become that. He’s gone too soon and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. You’ll be missed, Lane.
Be Well.