Page, thank you for this post. Apropos of nothing, I suppose, you brought back great memories of seeing those two women – and the entire, incredible original cast. I remember that at the time I'd heard strong buzz coming out of Chicago. So I rushed the show with a friend during previews. The seats we were given (for cheap!) must have been unused house seats – orchestra center, eight rows back, on the house left aisle. We had *no idea* what we were about to behold.
I vividly recall how real, chaotic, and organic the central dinner scene in Act 2 felt. Dunagan's speech to those assembled was shocking, invigorating, and honestly terrifying. I literally gasped at some of her viciousness. Morton's delivery of her timeless line to end the scene and act was unforgettable. I remembering it echoing throughout the house for a moment in the blackout, followed immediately by a roar of delight, applause, and pure electricity among the audience as the house lights rose. What a gift to have seen those two at the top of their craft in a piece so suited to them. And again, a shout-out to the whole original cast, with so many indelible performances. Rondi Reed, Brian Kerwin, and Sally Murphy were each perfection in their roles, too, in my humble opinion.
Thanks for the memory! |
