Re Groban's effect on box office. - he's missed six performances that I'm aware of and the grosses haven't suffered that much. Granted, as it's been a sell out since day one, the only possible effect on grosses would be those who demand refunds. And I presume ticket holders might be inclined to just go ahead and see the performance without him, while someone who hasn't bought a ticket yet would not buy unless they know Groban would be performing. So, it's not a perfect argument. Also, on the Facebook fan page for the show there have been excited posts when it's known that he'll be out, from people who want to see Nicholas Christopher in his place, as the buzz on Christopher has been great.
Full disclosure, I have a small investment in this production, so I'm not unbiased, but I do sense the production itself is seen as strong and not simply a vehicle for Josh Groban. I believe it will have legs after he leaves. I do wonder if they can get a star to take it over. When I saw Taron Egerton say on TB he'd like to do the role someday (while admitting he's too young now), that suggested to be that a lot of performers would love to do that role. That said, with the buzz on Nicholas Christopher as strong as it is, they might just offer it to him after Groban leaves. I have no inside info on anything, though. I only know what's in the press releases.
And yes, it wouldn't have happened without him. It was his idea to do it in the first place, and he took it to Tommy Kail, who then apparently took it to his Hamilton producer, Jeffrey Seller. |
