You're absolutely right that the TV version of MUSIC MAN with Chenoweth and Matthew Broderick lowered Marion's songs for some crazy reason. Maybe they felt that a higher soprano's voice would sound too shrill on TV? lol
A few years later, the HOLLYWOOD BOWL presented MUSIC MAN and I got to appear in the chorus. Chenowith recreated Marion, sang the songs in the original key and sounded GLORIOUS?!!! Eric McCormack recreated Harold as he had just played it on Broadway.
My feeling is that Meredith wrote Marion as a legit soprano for a reason. She exemplifies culture, class and small town sophistication. Her character is a great contrast to the ladies of River City who are more belters. I think her songs won't pop as much when they are lowered. Can you imagine "Goodnight My Someone" or "Will I Ever Tell You" sung by a belter--which Sutton certainly is.
Last year I saw Sutton replace Chenoweth at the Bowl for their Bernstein tribute. Sutton sang "Tonight" with Brian Stokes Mitchell and really struggled. She even admitted onstage she's not a soprano.
Sutton was amazing this year as the Baker's Wife in INTO THE WOODS. WOW!! I just don't know why they didn't get Kelli O'Hara or even Chenowith as Marion for this new revival.
We shall see. |
