I loved the show when I saw it with Hines. And Tonya Pickins as Sweet Anita certainly deserved the Tony Award she received that year. After the show, I had a memorable experience. As I was walking down the street, who did I see walking in my direction but Mr. Hines himself? I had to blurt out how much I appreciated his performance that evening. His whole face lit up and he stopped to thank me, put his hand out for me to shake, asked my name, and once again thanked me for seeing the show. Not only an incredible performer but a genuinely lovely man. We lost him way too soon.
The role certainly requires a triple threat that we don't always see on Broadway these days. Without a powerful lead, there isn't really any reason to revive the show. And it's hard to believe it was thirty years ago. |
