| The Palace is particularly historically significant. Prior to being a legit theatre, it was the absolute flagship and pinnacle of vaudeville in America. Then the important theatrical concerts by Judy Garland (in the 1951-52, 1956-57, and 1967-68 seasons), and a notable legit history including original productions of "Sweet Charity", "La Cage", and so many others. Maligning the integrity of the building (already hurt by the removal of earlier marquees, and the construction of a hotel on top of it), and risking damage of remaining original elements, simply to add more over-priced unneeded tourist-trap junk shops facing Times Square was one of the most soulless, crass ideas ever conceived. All real-estate greed, zero arts awareness thinking. Let's hope that horrendous idea is dead with a Lestat (Palace tenant)-style stake through its heart. |
