We asked local director and actress Kelly Doherty (who brought down the house as Miss Trunchbull in Firstm Stage’s production of Matilda last year) which Hollywood adaptations of Broadway musicals really sing, and which ones strike a discordant note.
The Best
The Wiz
1978
“This one has only gotten better with every subsequent viewing. It will make you laugh. It will make you cry. It will make you want to get up and dance.”
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Hedwig and the Angry Inch
2001
“Compelling story with beautiful music and beautiful performances. I never get tired of watching this one.”
The Sound of Music
1965
“In this instance, I wholeheartedly believe the film adaptation outshines the stage production by leaps and bounds. Filled with songs you’ll be humming for days and so much heart you can’t help but fall in love with these characters.”
The Worst
The Phantom of the Opera
2004
“While there were some redeeming qualities (I’m looking at you, Minnie Driver and Patrick Wilson), it wasn’t enough to save us from having to listen to poor Gerard Butler sing ‘Music of the Night.’”
Cats
2019
“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.”
