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Transcript of Robert
Armin's online chat with Alice Ripley |
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[Alice Ripley is a great typist! The following chat has been edited ever so slightly to correct major typos and to place some answers closer to the appropriate questions but, for the most part, the text has been left as-is.] [RobertArmin] Good evening and welcome to the Fynsworth Alley chat room. [RobertArmin] I'm really delighted to welcome one of the brightest stars of the Broadway musical theatre - Ms Alice Ripley! [RobertArmin] Hi, Alice. [AliceRipley] Hey, it's dark in here. Somebody turn on a light. [AliceRipley] Hi Ya [RobertArmin] I wanted to let everyone know what you're up to tomorrow. [AliceRipley] Oh yeah... [RobertArmin] For those of you in the Washington, DC area, Alice will be performing a live concert [RobertArmin] And it's free! [AliceRipley] The Millenium Stage [RobertArmin] How did that happen? [AliceRipley] We've played there a few times. [AliceRipley] This is our third, I believe [RobertArmin] You're very popular in the DC area, I imagine. [AliceRipley] Well, sure [AliceRipley] :-) [AliceRipley] Umm...I love DC [RobertArmin] Kris and I saw your production of Tell Me On A Sunday -- it was splendid, indeed. [AliceRipley] Thank you - How kind of you to say so. [RobertArmin] Are there any plans yet to bring it to NYC? [AliceRipley] No [AliceRipley] Not with me, anyway. [RobertArmin] So it was worth the trip! [AliceRipley] I will be very busy by next summer [AliceRipley] Yes! [RobertArmin] You are planning something for us in the Big Apple next week. Tell us about it. [AliceRipley] My husband and I will be playing live music on March 2nd @ Joe's Pub in NYC [AliceRipley] A few new tunes [AliceRipley] and some old favs [AliceRipley] We hit @ 10 [RobertArmin] Songs from Everything's Fine, of course? [AliceRipley] Yes! [RobertArmin] Any show tunes? [AliceRipley] noooooooooooooooooo [AliceRipley] Hee Hee [AliceRipley] A very talented man [AliceRipley] named Angie Aparo will be opening for us. [RobertArmin] You are one THE most versatile singers around. Full of surprises at every turn. [AliceRipley] Thank you [RobertArmin] We'll be there on the 2nd, of course. [AliceRipley] Can't wait. [AliceRipley] Who else is out there? [RobertArmin] I'll be posting a few of their questions in just a moment. [RobertArmin] Let's talk a bit about your extraordinary childhood -- it must have been something with 10 brothers and sisters. [AliceRipley] I'm the middle child of 11. [AliceRipley] We only had one bathroom, except my parents' [AliceRipley] and they never shared [AliceRipley] so it was one bathroom for us all. [AliceRipley] I also like to say [AliceRipley] that I never had my own underwear [AliceRipley] until I was out of college. [RobertArmin] >-) [RobertArmin] We you the "entertainer" in the family or were there others? [AliceRipley] Yes... [RobertArmin] I misspelled that -- :-) [AliceRipley] I've become a professional at getting attention [RobertArmin] Molly asks: Hi Alice! When are you coming to Miami for Little Shop of Horrors? [AliceRipley] We travel to Florida on April 21st [AliceRipley] and I believe we open on May 15th or so [AliceRipley] runs for 6 weeks [AliceRipley] then a week off [RobertArmin] So that's where you're opening! [RobertArmin] Isn't that unusual? [AliceRipley] before we start rehearsals for NYCV [AliceRipley] NYC [AliceRipley] You mean the week off? [RobertArmin] No, opening Little Shop in Florida, or did I misunderstand? [AliceRipley] Oh yes...well, it's just an out to town engagement prior to a Broadway run… just like the old days [RobertArmin] I am looking forward to seeing Little Shop again. Are they making any significant changes at all? [AliceRipley] I'm not sure yet. [AliceRipley] I have heard the plant is going to grow to be 25 feet tall [AliceRipley] and I have to be eaten alive by it! [AliceRipley] Hmmmm [AliceRipley] I would suspect [AliceRipley] that they will stay as close to the original [AliceRipley] as possible, considering the team involved. [RobertArmin] I envy the plant [AliceRipley] HA HA [RobertArmin] Jane asks: Hi Alice, it’s Jane from Birmingham, have you caught up on our sleep from your Alabama weekend? [AliceRipley] Yes, thank you so much for asking. I got very sick before I went down there [AliceRipley] and then promptly lost my voice [AliceRipley] but it has since returned. [RobertArmin] DBillyP asks: Alice, do you have any plans to come to Dallas to sing, to promote your album? [AliceRipley] Not at the moment, no [AliceRipley] Oh it's JANE! [AliceRipley] Hi Jane! [RobertArmin] Jane writes: you were still great, people are still telling us how much they enjoyed you!! [AliceRipley] Jane and her husband Tom treated us like royalty. [RobertArmin] DBillyP says "Shucks" about Dallas. [AliceRipley] And we all know better [AliceRipley] Come to NYC! Only Texans expect you to come to them! [AliceRipley] :-) [RobertArmin] FYNSROBBIE writes: Queen Alice, I've heard you sing "Rainbow High", and wonder when you're gonna tackle Evita with that glorious belt of yours... [AliceRipley] I remember when Evita was running the first time, [AliceRipley] I thought to myself [AliceRipley] that I would be the perfect age to play her [AliceRipley] when the show was revived. [RobertArmin] Great! [AliceRipley] Let [AliceRipley] sorry [AliceRipley] I mean [AliceRipley] let's get a barn [AliceRipley] and do a show! [RobertArmin] I could put up with Evita again if you were in it! [AliceRipley] Thank you. [RobertArmin] After Madonna, it would be a definite delight! [AliceRipley] I'm ready any time the Shuberts are [AliceRipley] god love her, at least she's got biceps. [AliceRipley] I didn' [AliceRipley] I didn't mean to imply [AliceRipley] that you didn't have biceps, Robert [RobertArmin] Well, it is accurate! [AliceRipley] I'm making alot of mistakes, I must be excited. [RobertArmin] You have played so many angst-ridden women in musicals.... what really joyous role would you like to play someday? [RobertArmin] I clean up the mistakes in the transcript! [AliceRipley] It seems that every joyous role has a dark interior [AliceRipley] otherwise, there is no joy in transcending the pain [RobertArmin] Growing up, you must have had a dream role... [AliceRipley] I used to wish I was a classical actress when I was a kid, just starting out. [AliceRipley] Shaw, Shakespeare, Coward [AliceRipley] Anne Whitefield from Shaw's Man and Superman [AliceRipley] that's a dream role [RobertArmin] You can certainly do those roles now. [AliceRipley] Where [AliceRipley] Where's that barn? [RobertArmin] We saw you in The Vagina Monologues and were blown away by your versatility. [RobertArmin] adrockgirl writes: Hey Al-why don't you tell us something embarrassing and fun! [AliceRipley] Nothing like screaming C##T at the top of my lungs [AliceRipley] sorry, couldn't resist [RobertArmin] !!! [AliceRipley] Well, that's embarrassing! [RobertArmin] But you didn't get to do the moans! [RobertArmin] Rebecca Luker did! [AliceRipley] I know...you can't have everything [AliceRipley] She's perfect [AliceRipley] You can' [AliceRipley] you can't count her [RobertArmin] Who's imagine? [RobertArmin] That's who's imagine [AliceRipley] wod [AliceRipley] who'd? [RobertArmin] who'd imagine [AliceRipley] !! [RobertArmin] Finally [AliceRipley] WOD? [AliceRipley] !! [RobertArmin] Typos be gone! [AliceRipley] I'm having fun [RobertArmin] Marina asks: how are your cats? [AliceRipley] They are just lovely. [AliceRipley] One's fat and one's crazy. [RobertArmin] PurplishProse writes: Hi, Alice... I love the pieces of your writing on your website, and miss the less-busy good old days where it was updated regularly.. what do you like to read; who's influenced your writing? [AliceRipley] First of all [AliceRipley] I'd like to say that I plan on updating it soon. [AliceRipley] With some recent pics as well. [AliceRipley] Secondly, thanks for reading my essays! [AliceRipley] I love to read everything [AliceRipley] I must read the NYTimes everyday. [AliceRipley] It's the only paper worth reading. [AliceRipley] That sounds like an ad. [RobertArmin] cmc1110 writes: I saw you this summer @ the Kennedy Center in Company...BTW you were great. What was the best part of Summer of Sondheim? [AliceRipley] Thank you so much, cmc1110. [AliceRipley] The best part was making so many dear friends during the run. [AliceRipley] We had so much fun we thought we were in college. [RobertArmin] FYNSROBBIE asks: It has been five years since Side Show closed. Can you reflect on that show and the people who discovered you because of it? [RobertArmin] Five years! Wow, time flies. [AliceRipley] I don't know how to put it into a few sentences. [AliceRipley] But I'll try. [AliceRipley] Working on Side Show was not like any "job" I've ever had before. [AliceRipley] It was like falling in love with someone real. [AliceRipley] When the show closed, it was like that person - whom I had had an intense, passionate relationship with [AliceRipley] had left with no explanation,. [AliceRipley] It was very painful! [AliceRipley] But I learned so much about myself as an actor and as a human being. [AliceRipley] I pushed myself farther than I had ever gone as a performer [AliceRipley] and that was amazing [RobertArmin] We were there the last weekend and Manny Azenberg felt very much the same way. He was almost in tears. [AliceRipley] because when it was all over [AliceRipley] and I had sung my guts out [AliceRipley] I was still alive somehow [AliceRipley] and it made me feel like superwoman [RobertArmin] Very well put [RobertArmin] I'm so glad the show was preserved on CD. [AliceRipley] I'm very grateful for that. [RobertArmin] And I think it will come back again some day. [AliceRipley] Very grateful [AliceRipley] Yes, but I will be 80 by then, so.... [AliceRipley] have fun! [RobertArmin] And, of course, Fynsworth has not one but two albums of duets with Emily Skinner! [AliceRipley] Who? [RobertArmin] You know, the other butt cheek [AliceRipley] It rings a bell [AliceRipley] but give me a moment [AliceRipley] Aren't those albums fun? [RobertArmin] Any plans for a third Duets? [AliceRipley] Not right now [RobertArmin] Or are you goin' solo from now on? [AliceRipley] But you never know [AliceRipley] I'd do it again if she wanted to. [AliceRipley] There's not much I wouldn't do for her. [RobertArmin] Niki asks: I've been hearing new album rumors? Are they true? [AliceRipley] I have a long list of new songs that are way ready to go [AliceRipley] We're trying to decide exactly what to do with them [RobertArmin] You write very personal songs. [AliceRipley] Those are the ones I share. [AliceRipley] But I write alot of made up songs too [RobertArmin] And have a very different sound than your Broadway fans are used to. [AliceRipley] Yes! I think it's a good thing. [AliceRipley] Generally, I'd say that theatre people would do well to open their view a little. [RobertArmin] It's quite wonderful to hear your different sides... and I don't mean the side with Emily. [AliceRipley] Especially musically. [RobertArmin] marina asks: hi alice, i was just wondering, generally, how long does it take you to write a song? and who or what are your muses? [AliceRipley] I have taken a week or longer to write a song and also written one in an hour! [AliceRipley] It all depends on how [AliceRipley] defined my idea is of what I want to say. [AliceRipley] Knowing what you want to say is essential. [RobertArmin] Do you have events in your life just trigger a song idea and you go home and write it? [AliceRipley] The more specific the better. [AliceRipley] Yes. [AliceRipley] I spent my childhood depressed and not knowing why. [RobertArmin] Molly asks: You've been doing a lot of limited run engagements lately. Are you excited to do something open-ended? (I'm Molly, the one who lives very close to Actor's Playhouse in Coral Gables) [AliceRipley] Until I grew up and realized every time I felt depressed it was because I was not expressing myself creatively. [RobertArmin] Let's talk about the depressed feelings a bit. [RobertArmin] You just answered my question [AliceRipley] I'll go further, if you like...I'm not afraid of pain! [RobertArmin] Sure. [RobertArmin] When did you first start to sing for others? Did that help? [AliceRipley] Now, when I feel sad, I try to write about it. [AliceRipley] I've always sung for others. [AliceRipley] I can't remember not doing it. [AliceRipley] Yes...but back then I was worried about what other people thought. [AliceRipley] I am not so concerned about that now. [RobertArmin] In school, church, theatre, where? [AliceRipley] Yes. All of the above. [AliceRipley] Wherever I could. [AliceRipley] In the woods, too! [AliceRipley] While cleaning the pool. [AliceRipley] Walking to school. [RobertArmin] What was your first play or musical? That you saw and/or performed in? [AliceRipley] The first show I ever did was "The Wizard of Oz" [AliceRipley] I wanted to be Dorothy but HAHAHA I was a flying monkey in the end. [RobertArmin] And then? [AliceRipley] To think I would get Dorothy! The nerve. [RobertArmin] Hah. You should have been!!! [AliceRipley] I remember seeing Godspell right afterward [AliceRipley] Stephen Schwartz has a place under my heart. [RobertArmin] He will be my guest in a few weeks. I'm looking forward to it. [AliceRipley] Anyway, I went to a high school that was associated with the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival. [AliceRipley] I saw a lot of classics growing up. [AliceRipley] I was about 14 as the flying monkey. [RobertArmin] What was your first major role? [AliceRipley] Marion Paroo in "The Music Man" [AliceRipley] junior in high school [AliceRipley] all the seniors hated me [RobertArmin] Lovely [AliceRipley] only for a few weeks [RobertArmin] Not that they hated you, that you did it. [AliceRipley] they eventually came around [RobertArmin] You are not always easy to read, at first. [AliceRipley] Right [RobertArmin] I was surprised when I first met you what a delightful funny lady you are. [AliceRipley] I was always hanging around people older than me. [RobertArmin] Because your roles are often a bit cold. [AliceRipley] Really? [RobertArmin] There is, of course, great warmth under the surface. [AliceRipley] I was never allowed to be funny until very recently. [AliceRipley] On stage, I mean [RobertArmin] I told you how much I admired your work in The Dead [AliceRipley] All those that know me personally know I am goofy. [RobertArmin] I felt that the whole show was about how much your character loved Christopher Walken's [AliceRipley] That makes me smile. [RobertArmin] But you were sooooo repressed. [RobertArmin] The character, that is [AliceRipley] Whew! boy [RobertArmin] It was fascinating to see how you brought out her love without a word being said [AliceRipley] yes, but wearing a corset every night [AliceRipley] means you can eat all the Krispy Kremes you want [AliceRipley] and it never shows [AliceRipley] until the show closes. [RobertArmin] Hah! [AliceRipley] Then it's a rude awakening. [RobertArmin] Never noticed a problem at the time. [AliceRipley] Thank you so much for the compliment [AliceRipley] (about Molly Ivors) [RobertArmin] Let me try to get a few more questions in here. they are coming fast and furious [RobertArmin] Dara asks: Hey Alice, it's Dara... I have a request. Can you sing Pieces at Joe's Pub on Sunday? [AliceRipley] I'm not ready to do that as of today, but I do have a week! [AliceRipley] And since it's a special request from you [AliceRipley] I'll practice it and see what I can come up with. [RobertArmin] Lance314 asks: Alice, hi! I know you're supposed to be coming back to Philly in May. Know that your dedicated Philly fans will be there to cheer you on! Any chance you'll get to perform some of your original songs, perhaps at some other venue? We'd LOVE that! [AliceRipley] No, sorry! [RobertArmin] FYNSROBBIE asks: Tell us about your forthcoming movie, The Adulterer (which also features Emily) [AliceRipley] That movie was shot a few years ago. [AliceRipley] I finally saw it last summer. [AliceRipley] Ems has a cameo - she's hilarious [RobertArmin] she was marvelous in Dinner At Eight [AliceRipley] It's making the festival rounds right now. [AliceRipley] I didn't get to see it. [AliceRipley] Much to my dismay. [RobertArmin] Not even on tape? [RobertArmin] You need to call someone! [AliceRipley] I was out of town [RobertArmin] What was your role in the film? [AliceRipley] I played Kim, a character married to the man trying to have an affair. [AliceRipley] Played by my pal Chris Diamantopoulos [AliceRipley] I can't believe I spelled that correctly. [RobertArmin] We'll fix it in the rewrite [AliceRipley] I made a movie last fall with Adam Pascal [RobertArmin] Any other films than those two? [AliceRipley] called "Temptations" [AliceRipley] that's it! [AliceRipley] I mean "Temptation" [RobertArmin] Oh, so you don't play a member of the Motown group? [AliceRipley] Not yet. [RobertArmin] AllThatJazz1227 asks: How did you decide what songs to include on your duet albums with Emily? [AliceRipley] I played Sabrina, who is the devil's sidekick [RobertArmin] marina adds (re: Adam): you rock, and he rocks, so its a perfect combination!!!!!!!! [AliceRipley] She comes up with most of the titles because she's much more informed about musical theatre than I. [AliceRipley] Then, we sing through them all and pretty much know right away which ones work. [RobertArmin] So you may be a Queen of musical theatre but you're not a musical theatre queen? [AliceRipley] We tried to choose more obscure songs. [AliceRipley] No, I'm afraid. [AliceRipley] not [AliceRipley] ! [RobertArmin] You obvious have a great love of more "contemporary" sounds [AliceRipley] I was much more into rock music as a kid, generally speaking. [RobertArmin] But please don't desert musicals too soon [RobertArmin] We need you [AliceRipley] How can I? It's my job! [AliceRipley] It's the best way I know to make dough! [RobertArmin] Audra McDonald has other ideas, it seems. [AliceRipley] You mean concerts? [RobertArmin] Niki asks: Will you have any other concerts of your own music before beginning Little Shop in April? (Hopefully in Dayton...or here in Cincinnati) :-) [AliceRipley] She's a goddess, she can do anything she wants. [AliceRipley] No...Nothing in that area. Sorry. [RobertArmin] Of course, but hopefully she'll keep returning to the theatre [AliceRipley] As long as she stays away it gives the rest of us a chance! [AliceRipley] But I know what you mean [AliceRipley] Her integrity is contagious [AliceRipley] We can always use more of that. [AliceRipley] Hi Lynn! [RobertArmin] Lynn writes: Hey you! :-) [RobertArmin] FYNSROBBIE asks: Being the biggest "Carrie" fan EVER, how did you get to record Unsuspecting Hearts? The authors don't let ANYONE touch that work. [AliceRipley] I remember just deciding to call Michael Gore. [AliceRipley] I just called him cold. [AliceRipley] I told him that Ems and I wanted to sing a song from Carrie. [AliceRipley] He was already familiar with our work together in Side Show [AliceRipley] and he was very excited that WE were interested in him. [AliceRipley] He came over and played through some songs with us. [AliceRipley] It was so cool. [RobertArmin] I think Carrie has a terrific score that deserves to be recorded properly -- it was, however, the worst directed show in history. [AliceRipley] Michael Gore is a hero of mine. [AliceRipley] I was only a baby when that show was running. [RobertArmin] You didn't miss much [AliceRipley] :-) [RobertArmin] But, fortunately, there are recordings available [RobertArmin] It's sounds much better than it looked! [RobertArmin] More questions [RobertArmin] marina asks: you've accomplished so much in your life, but are there other goals you'd still like to reach? i dunno, like a grammy or something? ps. did you watch the grammys? [AliceRipley] Yes, I watched the Grammys and I have to say that I am so thrilled with Norah Jones's victories. [AliceRipley] Less than a year ago, I played the Bottom Line writer's night with her. [AliceRipley] Her album had not yet been released. [AliceRipley] Now look at her! [AliceRipley] She is really talented. [RobertArmin] I love that her music is considered music for adult listeners [AliceRipley] I would love to make money writing and recording songs. [AliceRipley] It's sort of my "ultimate dream" [RobertArmin] As if children are the only people who buy CDs [AliceRipley] EXACTLY! [RobertArmin] I think you're on your way... [AliceRipley] We adults actually have the money. [AliceRipley] But lately there has been very little out there worth buying. [RobertArmin] And we don't trade recordings on the internet [AliceRipley] I would love to win a Grammy. [AliceRipley] Ripping off music from the net stimulates my CD buying. [AliceRipley] I don't know what the big deal is. [RobertArmin] Kheather writes: Hey Al, It's Heather & Niki.. Is your fabulous drummer husband going to come and play with you in Florida? [RobertArmin] I agree about the internet [RobertArmin] I learn about music I want from the internet then go and buy it so I have the complete package [AliceRipley] Most artists I know are thrilled to know that through the net they can acquire so many new fans who otherwise would not know about their music [AliceRipley] That's exactly what I do. [AliceRipley] Because I'm addicted to good songs. [RobertArmin] marina tells me I am a patient man... thank you marina, it's tough keeping up with you all! [AliceRipley] But I need to have the actual CD, to support the artist and read the lyrics [AliceRipley] Yes, Shannon is coming! [AliceRipley] (see above) [RobertArmin] I think this is the one of the busiest chat's I've had in the past three months! [RobertArmin] You are very popular, Ms Ripley! [AliceRipley] Wow. [AliceRipley] Wheeee! [AliceRipley] I have many supportive fans and I love them all [RobertArmin] marina writes: wow, two amazing talents in one room, you guys must have blown the room away!! [AliceRipley] Which two? [AliceRipley] Oh, you mean Norah and I? [RobertArmin] No, I think Shannon and you [AliceRipley] I am flattered that you put me in a category with her talent. [AliceRipley] Same goes for him. [RobertArmin] theatrediva asks: Alice, what are you going to be singing at CCRI? [AliceRipley] I mean Norah and ME. [RobertArmin] Better grammar [AliceRipley] Mostly my own music, with a few musical theatre songs thrown in to satisfy the wolves. [AliceRipley] Probably "Another Hundred People" [AliceRipley] "Meadowlark" [AliceRipley] a few others. [RobertArmin] Molly asks: Do you think you'll perform any of your own music while you're in South Florida? The furthest south I can remember you coming is Jacksonville! [AliceRipley] Usually I sing "Broadway Baby" [AliceRipley] I don't think I'll have time. [AliceRipley] although my agent has suggested [AliceRipley] that I learn "Suddenly Seymour" in spanish. [RobertArmin] Dara asks: Hey Alice, it's Dara. I'll always have a special place in my heart for Rocky Horror because that's how I met you. What was most rewarding about working on that show? [AliceRipley] Ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm [AliceRipley] Telling the audience to shut up? [RobertArmin] Suddenly Seymour in Spanish. That would be interesting? How does that start? [AliceRipley] ! [AliceRipley] I have no idea! [AliceRipley] "nobody ever treated me kindly [AliceRipley] "daddy left early [AliceRipley] "mama was poor" [AliceRipley] translation please [RobertArmin] No, I mean how do you say "Suddenly, Seymour" [AliceRipley] I have no idea. [AliceRipley] But maybe one of our fellow chatters could translate a few lines. [RobertArmin] theatrediva writes: Alice I still remember what happened at Keene with Another hundred People [AliceRipley] !!! [AliceRipley] !!! [RobertArmin] theatre diva says: I met you after it [AliceRipley] When you make mistakes (I forgot the words) you have to laugh and try again [AliceRipley] otherwise, the audience worries about you. [AliceRipley] I'd rather have them laugh with me. [RobertArmin] FYNSROBBIE writes: You recently went on for Linda Eder, singing her songs.... how did that happen, and how did you learn all of her material so quickly? [AliceRipley] I brought a few of my own song ideas [AliceRipley] and sang about 2/3 of her songs [AliceRipley] I just learn stuff really fast. [AliceRipley] And I knew some of them beforehand. [AliceRipley] It was exhilarating [RobertArmin] Molly has some useful information: nadie me trató siempre amablemente papá a la izquierda temprano, mamma era pobre --- Thats "nobody ever treated me kindly, daddy left early, mamma was poor." [RobertArmin] That's how it starts! [RobertArmin] Now, write that down for later.... [AliceRipley] Amablemente? There's only room for two syllables! [AliceRipley] You gotta squeeze, I guess. [RobertArmin] DBillyP asks: alice, what is the best address to send a photo of the two of us to, to ask you to sign it? though i am planning on coming to florida for LITTLE SHOP... [AliceRipley] Alice Ripley [AliceRipley] c/o [AliceRipley] DGRW Talent Agency [AliceRipley] 1501 Broadway NYC NY 10036 [RobertArmin] So, a question often asked here is -- if you could pick any classic musical to revive, what show would you want to perform in? [AliceRipley] I'm sitting here trying to sing that tune in spanish. [AliceRipley] I feel like Gloria Estefan [RobertArmin] DBillyP adds: thanks! it's from broadway bares two years ago...you're kissing me on the cheek! it made my night! [AliceRipley] I played Mrs. Lovett when I was 19 (Sweeney Todd) [AliceRipley] I'd love to do it again. [RobertArmin] I think the lyrics may have to be not quite such a literal translation! [AliceRipley] Or Eva, of course! [RobertArmin] You would make a GREAT Mrs. Lovett. Something to look forward to. [AliceRipley] Broadway Bares was one of the most fun, uplifting nights in the biz I've ever had. [RobertArmin] or Something for which to look forward [AliceRipley] What a loving community. [RobertArmin] Was it difficult for you to make the decision to "bare" yourself in Rocky Horror? [AliceRipley] I can't believe we only have 15 minutes left! [AliceRipley] this could be my fifteen minutes of fame. [RobertArmin] I told you it would go by fast! [AliceRipley] Here it comes. [RobertArmin] Yes? [AliceRipley] It was not difficult at all (taking off my top in Rocky Horror). [AliceRipley] Believe it or not, it was a decision based on where the character was headed. [AliceRipley] My husband just laughs at that, but it's true. [RobertArmin] It made perfect sense and it worked perfectly in the moment [AliceRipley] You seen one, you've seen two. [RobertArmin] Well... [AliceRipley] They have never been a big deal. [RobertArmin] no pun intended? [AliceRipley] Standing in my UNDERWEAR with my butt a few feet from the face of an Elvis impersonator in the front row [AliceRipley] now THAT was scary. [RobertArmin] LOL [RobertArmin] marina asks: was 'summer of '42' ever recorded? [AliceRipley] I was much more intimidated about being in "shorts" onstage [AliceRipley] than losing my bra. [AliceRipley] I recorded a demo of the score. [AliceRipley] But I think you'd have to come over here to my living room to hear it. [AliceRipley] I love the score. [RobertArmin] I'll be over next week. [RobertArmin] !!! [AliceRipley] Call first. [RobertArmin] :-) [RobertArmin] Shmatty asks: i actually just joined, but I've wanted to ask you: How do you prepare for your roles? [AliceRipley] The most important thing to do is relax [AliceRipley] then, [AliceRipley] search high and low for the core of the character [AliceRipley] where all their actions and thoughts come from [AliceRipley] and choose a place that you relate to emotionally. [AliceRipley] I relate to Audrey from Little Shop perhaps more than any character I've ever played. [RobertArmin] I think it's a terrific role for you. More emotional than usual. [RobertArmin] Kheather asks: What is the best show that you have had the chance to see in a while? [AliceRipley] I recently saw Richard Nelson's play "The General From America" and I thought it was amazing. [AliceRipley] But, I adore everything he writes. [AliceRipley] Yes. [RobertArmin] Theatrediva asks: Alice, what is the chance of saying hello after the CCRI concert [AliceRipley] Just find me. [AliceRipley] It'll be SO EASY [AliceRipley] I'm the bottle blond [AliceRipley] I'm so sorry about the recent tragedy in RI [AliceRipley] I am moved to tears just reading the paper. [RobertArmin] marina asks: do blonds have more fun? [AliceRipley] YES!!!! [RobertArmin] Yes -- about RI. [AliceRipley] Even on a bad hair day, it just looks like you're wearing a really interesting hat. [RobertArmin] What were you like as a kid? [AliceRipley] I was a class clown, but [AliceRipley] always the new kid because we moved almost every year. [AliceRipley] so i was shy [AliceRipley] and I was a tomboy [AliceRipley] I didn't wear make up or skirts till I was out of college. [AliceRipley] I beat up a few boys in my day. [RobertArmin] You sound like the kind of girl I dated... [AliceRipley] !!! [AliceRipley] At least that's how I like to remember it. [RobertArmin] They beat me up sometimes, too :-( [AliceRipley] I think it was just a way to defend my heart. [AliceRipley] Now I just let it show as much as possible. [RobertArmin] I must say that you are worth getting to know. Both you and Shannon are terrific people. [AliceRipley] He is the coolest guy I've ever known. [RobertArmin] It was so great seeing you in DC after the show [AliceRipley] And i've known a lot of cool guys. [RobertArmin] I hope Kris and I can get to know you guys better [AliceRipley] I remember it was FREEZING [AliceRipley] and WINDY [RobertArmin] Very cold. [RobertArmin] How was the movie? [AliceRipley] We all had red noses [AliceRipley] I fell asleep [RobertArmin] What was it you went to see? [AliceRipley] ! [AliceRipley] Gangs of New Yorkl [RobertArmin] Ah, yes. [AliceRipley] York [AliceRipley] Yorkle [AliceRipley] ? [AliceRipley] It started at midnight [AliceRipley] so that's why. [AliceRipley] It's not that I wasn't interested. [RobertArmin] John C. Reilly will soon be coming to Broadway too. Cross your fingers, at least. [AliceRipley] Maybe I'll see him at some press junket. [RobertArmin] Marty is on the way [AliceRipley] He is an extremely interesting actor. [RobertArmin] Yes, I am so glad that his career is finally taking off. [AliceRipley] I went out of my way to accidentally bump into Paul Rudd while Side Show was running. [AliceRipley] But no luck [RobertArmin] Anyway, we have to start wrapping this up because I know you only wanted to chat for a half hour or so [AliceRipley] Ha Has [AliceRipley] WAIT I DON'T WANT to go [RobertArmin] No rush! [RobertArmin] You can stick around a while longer [AliceRipley] I feel better now. [AliceRipley] Who is the pig? [AliceRipley] Is that sara [AliceRipley] ? [RobertArmin] DBillyP asks: i heard you sing a song today from the DILLINGER demo on modern broadway.com, can you tell us a bit more about that? [AliceRipley] I was a hired singer for that demo. I've never heard the entire score but what I heard was intriguing [AliceRipley] There [AliceRipley] There's one tune I remember really liking alot. But don't remember the title [RobertArmin] Thepig says : "Yeah, I miss you!" [AliceRipley] Oh my gosh [AliceRipley] This is amazing that it takes a chat room to finally talk to you. [AliceRipley] I love you [AliceRipley] I miss you [AliceRipley] come home [AliceRipley] come home little pig [RobertArmin] Didn't you also do a demo of the new song from Chicago? It got an Oscar nomination! [AliceRipley] Yes, but they re-wrote the tune after Debbie Gravitte and I sang it. [RobertArmin] thepig says: I'm going away so people can ask real questions...just wanted to say Hi. Love you. [AliceRipley] I tried not to take it personally. [RobertArmin] marina asks: what did you think of Chicago? and the actors. esp. Richard Gere, Renee and Catherine? (Queen Latifa rocked)! [AliceRipley] I haven't seen it. [AliceRipley] I must, however, [AliceRipley] because [AliceRipley] I absolutely adore Rob Marshall [AliceRipley] there's a man who deserves all the recognition he is getting and more. [RobertArmin] He did a great job [AliceRipley] I think it must be perfectly cast, right? [RobertArmin] It really is well done and Renee is a revelation in it. [RobertArmin] Niki asks: What was it like to play the Marilyn Monroe character in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes? [AliceRipley] I have some issues about these movie stars faking it as musical theatre performers, but I'm trying to remain generous. [AliceRipley] Renee Zellweger won my heart in "Jerry McGuire" [RobertArmin] They really don't fake it this time. They do all their own singing and dancing [AliceRipley] Whatever [RobertArmin] "You had me with hello" -- I cried [RobertArmin] jkforeva asks: Alice, saw you at the Sondheim Celebration in NYC...you mentioned you were looking for an assistant...still need one? ;) [AliceRipley] I loved playing Lorelei Lee, by the way. It was the first time I was allowed to be funny. [AliceRipley] It was so much fun. [AliceRipley] (the Marilyn character) [AliceRipley] Yes, I am. [RobertArmin] You must be FUNNY. You are FUNNY. Producers will know this after Little Shop [AliceRipley] I am considering it [AliceRipley] But I am very picky. [AliceRipley] (a personal assistant) [AliceRipley] I'm a few questions behind because I'm entertaining myself so well! [RobertArmin] What are you looking for in assistant? [RobertArmin] It does move fast! [AliceRipley] Someone who will force me to go to the dentist when I need to go. [AliceRipley] And remind me to write thank you notes. [AliceRipley] Actually, I'm looking for a mother [AliceRipley] ! [RobertArmin] jkforeva writes: I'll do that! I'll even hold your hand when you're in the chair! [AliceRipley] YAY! [AliceRipley] Then you can pay the bill when it comes [RobertArmin] Marina asks: Isn't that what husbands are for? [AliceRipley] With the money I just spent in the dentist's chair, I could be wearing a huge diamond solitaire [AliceRipley] from Tiffanys [RobertArmin] DBillyP writes: my boss, who i force to go the dentist, just said he would write me a letter of recommendation! ; ) [AliceRipley] Really? [AliceRipley] Send it on [RobertArmin] FYNSROBBIE asks: There was talk about taping COMPANY for television... what happened to that? [AliceRipley] It didn't happen. [AliceRipley] But that's okay because I loathe taped theatre [AliceRipley] But I think I am in the minority. [AliceRipley] To me, it's like watching sports on TV [RobertArmin] DBillyP adds: i will send it with the photo! ; ) [AliceRipley] My stomach's growling so I better go [AliceRipley] I hate to say goodbye! [AliceRipley] I could talk all night [AliceRipley] but Shannon is standing at the door with his coat on. [RobertArmin] My fingers are getting tired, so I have to agree! [RobertArmin] Thank you SOOOOO much for this evening. It was great! [AliceRipley] Okay Okay I'm coming! [AliceRipley] Thank you SO MUCH [RobertArmin] I was worried that you would be too tired -- what with having to go to DC tomorrow. [AliceRipley] I so appreciate my devoted supporters [RobertArmin] But there's life in the old girl yet -- to quote from something or other [AliceRipley] I would love to talk to you again sometime [RobertArmin] You do have MANY admirers [AliceRipley] I had a real fun time! [RobertArmin] Keep up the good word and say hi to Shannon for me. [AliceRipley] I will....Bye YA'll I love you [RobertArmin] Kris and I would love to have you over for dinner some day! [AliceRipley] Just let me know. [RobertArmin] Thanks everyone for your questions. [RobertArmin] Come back next week for the amazing Sandy Duncan! [AliceRipley] SMOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOCH [RobertArmin] Good night, Alice. See you at Joe's Pub! [AliceRipley] Good night all
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