We have Shrek.
We have Mary Poppins.
We have Dr. Frankenstein and his monster.
We have flying witches.
What else does Broadway need?
Oh but of course.
A superhero!
Grumblings around the Broadway community this past summer have heard casting calls for the new Julie Taymor musical....Spiderman!
Now, when I first heard this news....cue the....eye roll.
But learning that Julie Taymor is attached could make this all very interesting. This could potentionally go in the way of The Lion King or into the direction I am sure many would not like, The Times They Are A-Changin.
But let me ask the question - does Broadway need this show? Are there target demographics out there that have yet to be touched by the already broad spectrum of musicals on Broadway? My answer would be yes and no. This, to my knowledge, is the first an actual superhero will be attached to a musical. Although there aren't many "guy shows" on Broadway (although High Fidelity came to as close as that), will the knowledge of a Superman musical really put men in the seats? Will this be the first show where a man will turn to his spouse or girlfriend or partner and say, "Oh boy! Let's shell out $120 a ticket to see this spectacle on Broadway!"
Oh yes, the music. Who is doing the score....none other than Bono and the Edge of U2. Do they rank higher on the cool factor than say Elton John and Tim Rice (thank you very much Aida)? Will having Bono's ultra cool name attached to this project boost the interest of that male target? As usual, we will have to wait and see how they plan to market....oh yeah and stage this monster of a show.
http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121624.html
1 comment:
Interesting! I heard about the spiderman project and never really thought about the demographics of it. I think it may have the effect of bringing men to the theatre....certainly it would draw the diehard Spiderman fans (most of which are male, yes?) Who knows....could be a wise move. I've heard there is a lot of spectacle in the show....close to that of Lion King....bringing actors out into the house, flying, etc. I bet it would be worth seeing and the writers of the music won't hurt!
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