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Transcript of Robert
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[Janine LaManna chatted from her own New York home. At the time, she was rehearsing for the soon-to-be-cancelled pre-Broadway production of Barry Manilow's Harmony.] [RobertArmin] Good evening and welcome to the Fynsworth Alley chat room. [RobertArmin] I am delighted to welcome a performer of whom I am a great fan. [RobertArmin] Is that the right grammar? [RobertArmin] I've probably seen her many times before that and didn't know it, but the first time I really noticed her was in SWING. [RobertArmin] She was Ann Hampton Callaway’s understudy. [RobertArmin] And the night my wife and I saw the show, she was "on" for Ann. [RobertArmin] You couldn't have asked for a more thrilling performance from an understudy. [RobertArmin] The next time I noticed her was in Seussical The Musical. [RobertArmin] She played the delightful Gertrude McFuzz, the insecure little bird who loves Horton the Elephant. [RobertArmin] Her performance was, in my opinion, the most memorable of the entire season! [RobertArmin] I am talking about Janine LaManna! [RobertArmin] Hi, Janine. [JanineLaManna] Hi Robert [RobertArmin] How was that for an introduction? [JanineLaManna] pretty nice! [RobertArmin] Am I gushing too much? [JanineLaManna] Gush away [RobertArmin] I thought your performance was first rate on every level. [JanineLaManna] Thank you, it was nothin' [RobertArmin] :-) [RobertArmin] Although you have danced in many musicals, you tend to think of yourself first and foremost as a singer. [JanineLaManna] Yes [RobertArmin] When did you first get started singing? [JanineLaManna] I started singing very young, around the house, in my room, the same old story. And then I sang in school. But, the big clincher was a summer at the Baltimore Actor's Theatre. [RobertArmin] You performed there? [JanineLaManna] No, it was summer classes in the performing arts program [RobertArmin] But it gave you a taste of the professional world of theatre. What made you say "I can do that!" [JanineLaManna] I was in love with learning music, drama, ballet and I just knew from that moment on that I would be an actress. [RobertArmin] What were some of your early roles? [RobertArmin] Melissa Errico talked about singing Evita at 14!!! [RobertArmin] In summer drama camp. [JanineLaManna] I played Tzeitel in Fiddler and Anita in West Side Story in High School. [RobertArmin] Two great roles for you. [RobertArmin] Mike_D comments: Of course!! I saw Janine in Seussical...What was that experience like? [JanineLaManna] It was magical on many levels. But, she was such a well written role, that it came very east to me. [JanineLaManna] I mean easy! [RobertArmin] Seussical must have been a frustrating experience. [RobertArmin] It took a while to really find it's way, and once it did, it seemed to be too late to get the audiences in. [RobertArmin] Kristine and I saw all three Cats in the Hat and it really did make a difference. [JanineLaManna] No, I stayed clear of all of the bad press, but the fact that we didn't get recognized for the work and had to close was very frustrating [RobertArmin] I think the Cat needed to really welcome the audience and bring them in -- something which Rosie and Cathy did very well. [RobertArmin] David Shiner was very talented but I think the original intent was not quite so warm. [JanineLaManna] Yes, they did. And in such different ways. [RobertArmin] But there was no question that you -- as Gertrude -- were beloved right from the start, [RobertArmin] Scott writes: I think it was impossible not to fall in love with Janine as Gertrude!!! [RobertArmin] And I agree. [RobertArmin] As does Mike_D! [JanineLaManna] How could anyone not relate to feeling insecure! [RobertArmin] Your character was clearly the heart and soul of the entire show. [JanineLaManna] Her message about accepting yourself as you are is very moving. [RobertArmin] The sequence with the overgrown tail was hilarious. [JanineLaManna] I forgot it one day! [RobertArmin] You forgot the tail? [JanineLaManna] I walked on stage and forgot to put it on! Then I ran off while Michele Pawk was singing, and put it on. But then, I didn't have it secured and it fell off during the doctor scene. So embarrassing! [RobertArmin] I'm sure that Gertrude handled it with aplomb. [JanineLaManna] Maybe? [RobertArmin] I can completely agree with Scott's comment: Not only were you ROBBED of a Tony nom, but you should have won the award. I was sickened that you weren't nominated. [RobertArmin] Something I said to you on closing night -- "Just be proud of the fact that you gave the very best performance of the season." [RobertArmin] Fortunately, a part of your performance has been preserved on the cast album. [RobertArmin] Scott adds: Janine won a large audience voted poll for best female musical theater performance of the year for Seussical. [JanineLaManna] Well, on the Tony...I received so much attention from not being nominated, that I felt the community validated my performance enough to make me feel great regardless. [RobertArmin] That's the way to look at it. [RobertArmin] Mike_D asks: What was it like working with Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens..I've loved their work since "Once on this Island"? [RobertArmin] Interestingly enough I saw there first show -- Lucky Stiff -- just yesterday! [JanineLaManna] They are the Rodgers and Hammerstein of our generation! [RobertArmin] With your old Major Stuart Zagnit! [RobertArmin] oops -- that's Mayor~ [JanineLaManna] I was supposed to play Annabelle in Lucky Stiff! rehearsals for Harmony conflicted. [RobertArmin] Oh, I would have LOVED to see you as Annabelle. Talk about insecure characters! [RobertArmin] Yes, how is Harmony going? [JanineLaManna] Harmony is harmonious! [RobertArmin] What is the show like. I didn't get to see it in California [RobertArmin] What do you play? [JanineLaManna] It is about the Comedian Harmonists in pre war Germany. The music is beautiful. [RobertArmin] I've heard some great things about it. Both Danny Burstein and Rebecca Luker have chatted here. [RobertArmin] They were in the California production. [JanineLaManna] I play a communist named Ruth and I play opposite Steve Buntrock [JanineLaManna] I think it will be very funny and moving. [RobertArmin] You're opening where -- Philadelphia? When? [JanineLaManna] The Forrest Theatre, Previews, Nov. 25 and closes Jan. 4th. [RobertArmin] We're going to try to get down there, I think. [JanineLaManna] Great! [RobertArmin] You have understudied for a number of Broadway shows, most notably for Chita Rivera in Kiss of the Spider Woman. What stories do you have about that show? [JanineLaManna] Well, I went on in the middle of the show in Chicago. [JanineLaManna] Talk about frantic! [RobertArmin] Yes, talk about frantic. [RobertArmin] How do you go about preparing to understudy? Do you stand in the wings and watch or what? [RobertArmin] I would be terrified to have to learn a role and not get to do it daily. [JanineLaManna] Well, there is a difference between Standing-by and understudying. When you're not in the show you have to watch a lot, but then you get your own rehearsals once a week to maintain the info. [RobertArmin] Were you Chita's standby for that? [JanineLaManna] Yes, and I did the same for Ann. Only twice have I been in that position and I loved the freedom of having my nights free and every once in a while being the star of the show! [RobertArmin] Well, you certainly seemed every inch the star in Swing! [JanineLaManna] thank you. I did that show for my Mom. She loves that music! [RobertArmin] You were also in an earlier Stuart Zagnit show (I've know Stuart since college) that I didn't get to see -- Theda Bara and the Frontier Rabbi. What was that show like? [RobertArmin] And I have to check my program -- I may have seen you in Pets! as well. [JanineLaManna] It was such a quirky and lovely little show. I loved being the two characters, the Vamp and the nice Jewish girl from Cincinnati! [RobertArmin] Were you with that show from the beginning? [JanineLaManna] Pets! I have this thing where I keep getting cast as animals! [RobertArmin] I mean, during its developmental stage. [JanineLaManna] Which? [RobertArmin] Theda Bara. [JanineLaManna] I did the JRT production only. And that was the last we heard of Theda [RobertArmin] Scott says he's sitting in Cincinnati right now -- but he's now Jewish! [RobertArmin] that's NOT [JanineLaManna] I wish they had gotten the money together for the extension at the Variety Arts. [RobertArmin] Boy, typing is off tonight. [RobertArmin] Or at least made a cast album! [JanineLaManna] So many people wanted one! [RobertArmin] Which production of Pets did you do. They did it several times, I think. [RobertArmin] I do have a demo of Theda Bara, fortunately. [JanineLaManna] I think the Samuel Beckett theater on Theatre Row. [RobertArmin] Yes, I think I saw you. [JanineLaManna] Jeff Hockhauser is a very good friend now [RobertArmin] It's interesting how a performer can make subtle impressions over the years and then FINALLY burst onto the scene in one swell foop! [JanineLaManna] I was a bunny and an iguana in Pets! [RobertArmin] Ah, the bunny and the iguana! [RobertArmin] I remember the iguana very well. [JanineLaManna] there is no such thing as an overnite sensation! [RobertArmin] Scott says: Don't be the bunny. [RobertArmin] A Urinetown reference. [JanineLaManna] lol [RobertArmin] I am laughing too, Scott! [RobertArmin] But, definitely, be the iguana! [JanineLaManna] I like the bird the best! [RobertArmin] Gertrude will always be one of my favorite birds. [JanineLaManna] mine too [RobertArmin] Do you think you would ever return to the show in its new incarnation? Seussical. And have you seen it? [JanineLaManna] I'm not sure. I want to see it very much, my friend Stafford Arima is directing the non-equity tour. [RobertArmin] If it was produced at a big regional -- say North Shore or somewhere -- would you "Guest Star"? [JanineLaManna] Not sure. It may be a bit too nostalgic. But, maybe a benefit concert for BC/EFA! [RobertArmin] I think that will happen someday -- A concert with the original cast. [JanineLaManna] Yeah! Lynne and Steve should have their music appreciated more and more! [RobertArmin] I think Lynn and Steve will have whole retrospective seasons done of their work -- like the Sondheim festival. [RobertArmin] Scott writes: I was at Look of Love the night that the elevator stuck just before What's New Pussycat. I felt so bad for you. [RobertArmin] They will continue to make their mark in musical theatre. [RobertArmin] What was your experience in that Burt Bacharach revue? [JanineLaManna] The elevator!!!!! During tech, Rachele Rak fell down that elevator! [RobertArmin] Yikes. [JanineLaManna] Absolutely! [RobertArmin] My Favorite Year was underrated too. [JanineLaManna] I loved singing the Bacharach music. [JanineLaManna] I made my debut on B'way in Ragtime and was so happy to do so! [RobertArmin] Yes, I was going to get to Ragtime. [JanineLaManna] Their music and lyrics are perfect [RobertArmin] That was an amazing show. [JanineLaManna] Yes! [RobertArmin] I'm blanking on the name of the character you played... [JanineLaManna] Evelyn Nesbit. [RobertArmin] Evelyn Nesbit. [RobertArmin] Yes, I just remembered. [RobertArmin] Now, did you open in that role or take over the part? [JanineLaManna] Lynette Perry originated the role and I took over 6 months later. [RobertArmin] It's driving me crazy, because I remember that we saw the understudy go on for Lynette and I can never remember who that was. [JanineLaManna] There were a few. [RobertArmin] Well, it wasn't you, I guess, so I can stop puzzling over that. [RobertArmin] I'm just amused that I have seen you in so many shows, admired your work, but not known who you were until Swing. [JanineLaManna] I'm very elusive! [RobertArmin] And a chameleon. [RobertArmin] (Not iguana) [RobertArmin] You are so different in everything. [JanineLaManna] That's why I "act" [RobertArmin] One question that I usually ask is, what are your dream roles? Is there a particular role that you are hoping to do someday? [JanineLaManna] Who wants to do the same thing over and over again. That's boring. [RobertArmin] Other than the new shows, of course. [RobertArmin] Scott writes: Yes, speaking of ELUSIVE, I came to NYC for a weekend and tried to see you in KMK, but you were out for the entire length of my trip!!! [JanineLaManna] I would love to do Evita again. I think it is such a great role. [RobertArmin] He forgives you though, he says. [RobertArmin] Where did you play Evita? [JanineLaManna] I don't think I was ever out for more than a day! [JanineLaManna] When did you see KMK? [RobertArmin] Scott says: Even though I did end up having to see Thou Shalt Not as a result [RobertArmin] Horrifying [RobertArmin] Just kidding. [RobertArmin] I did get to see you in Kiss Me, Kate, fortunately. [JanineLaManna] What a fun show for me. [RobertArmin] Scott says: I was there the first weekend of October (following 9/11). I kept returning my ticket and getting one for the next performance, and then doing it again, until I just gave up. It was the weekend that Reefer Madness opened. [JanineLaManna] So sorry! [RobertArmin] Wow, 9/11 and Thou Shalt Not! [JanineLaManna] Robert! [RobertArmin] I'm just being playful. [RobertArmin] There were some very good things about Thou Shalt Not. [RobertArmin] Scott adds: That's okay, I did get to see you in Seussical, and in The Look of Love twice. [JanineLaManna] Do I know you? [RobertArmin] Do you know any Scotts from Cincinnati? [JanineLaManna] Maybe... [RobertArmin] Hmm [JanineLaManna] did we meet outside of Seussical and did you write to me? [RobertArmin] HE writes: I run Liz Callaway's website and met you backstage at LOL. I also wrote you a couple of times and you graciously responded with autographed photos. THANKS. [RobertArmin] Yes, small world, isn't it? [JanineLaManna] I knew it! [RobertArmin] He adds: My wife even took your picture besides your poster. [JanineLaManna] Where is that poster? Hmmmm.... [RobertArmin] Scott writes: We are expecting our own little elephant bird in May [RobertArmin] A belaphird? [JanineLaManna] Congratulations! Teach him or her earth and sky! [RobertArmin] He adds: The poster is not in my possession, if that is what you are implying! :) [RobertArmin] He says will do. [RobertArmin] Well this is such a lovely mutual admiration society here. [JanineLaManna] Jealous? [RobertArmin] No, we should share the love. :-) [RobertArmin] Scott adds: We love your rendition of Hushabye Mountain [JanineLaManna] The LOOK of Love! [RobertArmin] Yes. [JanineLaManna] Thank you. [RobertArmin] I'm so glad you recorded that song for Fynsworth -- because it makes you part of the family here. [JanineLaManna] It's a great family. [RobertArmin] I know you played Velma in Chicago, but Scott wonders if you ever got to go on as Roxie? [JanineLaManna] No, but, I did it in college and I love that role too. [RobertArmin] Well, I'm looking forward to seeing Harmony. Have they set a date yet for NYC? [JanineLaManna] No, still waiting for the right theater. [RobertArmin] Well, a few theatres should open up by the end of the year, I think. [JanineLaManna] Robert! [RobertArmin] Right now, Harmony has the best shot at a Tony for best score, since so many shows use existing music -- Boy From Oz, Never Gonna Dance, etc. [RobertArmin] What did I say. [RobertArmin] Not everything can run forever. [RobertArmin] Of course, I love Avenue Q! [JanineLaManna] I hope every show has a substantial run to keep the actors employed! [RobertArmin] Haven't heard Wicked yet, though I usually love Steven Schwartz' music. [RobertArmin] So it will be a real horse race this year. [RobertArmin] No, I meant, some of the older shows may be closing. [JanineLaManna] really? [RobertArmin] The new shows always seem to hang on until Tony time. [JanineLaManna] Yeah, unless you're Seussical! [RobertArmin] Don't make me cry. [JanineLaManna] I already am! [RobertArmin] Scott says: I think that Laughing Room Only may be the first to say bye bye [RobertArmin] Now who's being catty? [JanineLaManna] That Jackie Mason, keeps on ticking! [RobertArmin] Janine, you have much to be proud of and I think there are many great moments in the theatre ahead for you. [RobertArmin] You will get your shot at most of the great roles and create many new ones as well. [JanineLaManna] Thank you so much! I look forward to it all. [RobertArmin] That's my prediction. [JanineLaManna] I hope you're right. [RobertArmin] Please keep me informed whenever you're doing something. [JanineLaManna] Of course. [RobertArmin] Of course, you will probably be involved with Harmony for a long time. [RobertArmin] Fingers crossed. [JanineLaManna] Yes! [RobertArmin] Scott writes: I am coming to NYC next week and will be seeing 9 musicals!!! I will be doing my part to keep the shows running. [JanineLaManna] thanks for supporting! [JanineLaManna] don't you think we need more family theatre? [RobertArmin] Yes, indeed. [RobertArmin] Plus Avenue Q -- for we dirty minded ones. [JanineLaManna] It's so important for kids to see live theatre! [RobertArmin] I'm not going to have a contest this week, since Scott already has your Sherman Bros CD. [RobertArmin] I'm sorry we didn't have a bigger crowd tonight, but in a few months there will be thousands of people looking up the name of Janine LaManna on the internet! [JanineLaManna] Yikes! [RobertArmin] And there we'll be. [RobertArmin] :-) [RobertArmin] Break a leg in Philadelphia. [JanineLaManna] Thanks! [RobertArmin] Scott adds: So I have to ask any chance of doing a solo disc for Janine in the future? [RobertArmin] After Harmony, maybe so! [RobertArmin] What sort of songs would you want to record, Janine? [RobertArmin] Any thoughts? [JanineLaManna] Where do I start?! [JanineLaManna] I would love to do some popular stuff and then obscure funny arrangements. [RobertArmin] StevenD writes: A friend of mine saw you opening night in Kiss of the Spider Woman in Chicago when you went on for Chita Rivera and he said you were amazing. [RobertArmin] Welcome StevenD. [JanineLaManna] REALLY! What a night that was! [RobertArmin] Would you like to add any of the songs you have performed on stage? [RobertArmin] Like Susan Egan's album? [RobertArmin] You have so many to choose from. [RobertArmin] Like the iguana song. [RobertArmin] Tee hee hee [JanineLaManna] Sure! There are some beautiful ballads that I recorded for small shows that should get a chance to be heard. [RobertArmin] StevenD adds: He talked about how the understudy came on and belted all the songs and was actually better then Chita [RobertArmin] He adds: Maybe a few things from Theda Bara. A Bolt of Love, or So Many Things That a Vamp Can't Do? [JanineLaManna] No one is better than Chita! Maybe, different?! [RobertArmin] Someone who knows Theda Bara well. [JanineLaManna] Yeah! [RobertArmin] That's the way I felt about Ann Hampton Callaway. We saw the show again when she was on and she was superb. But it didn't diminish how effective you had been in the same role. [RobertArmin] StevenD adds: I actually show the show with Rachel Sweet in Chicago in the early nineties and loved it. [JanineLaManna] I'm planning on doing something next year. A night of music, but I will probably do more pop music. [RobertArmin] The real definition of a star is someone who makes the role seem tailor made. [RobertArmin] Which you did. [RobertArmin] You're putting together a club act or a concert? [JanineLaManna] What a nice thing to say. [JanineLaManna] Yes. [JanineLaManna] It's time to do it! [RobertArmin] Good, if you need to go through old recordings I have them all! Please ask. [JanineLaManna] Thanks [RobertArmin] It's almost time to end this, so just let me thank you so very much for joining us tonight. [JanineLaManna] You are quite the dramaturge! [JanineLaManna] Thank you for having me. [RobertArmin] I have one computer drive with nearly two thousand albums on it! [JanineLaManna] Oh my God! [RobertArmin] My record collecting goes back forty years! [JanineLaManna] You should work for Lincoln Center! [RobertArmin] Oddly enough, we were there just two hours ago. [RobertArmin] Seeing a Vernon Duke concert. [JanineLaManna] Who? [RobertArmin] Michael Lavine, Christine Pedi, George S. Irving, Ivy Austin, etc. [JanineLaManna] Great. [RobertArmin] But that's another story. For next time. I have to go make dinner for my wife! [JanineLaManna] Go! [RobertArmin] Ever the obedient househusband. [JanineLaManna] Run! [RobertArmin] Next week, my guest will be the amazing Mary Testa! [RobertArmin] Good night, Janine. [JanineLaManna] Good Night, Robert. [JanineLaManna] Thanks again. [RobertArmin] On to Philly!!!!! [JanineLaManna] Oye! [RobertArmin] :-) |
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