The latest in the book-to movie-to stage development is the adaptation of Dr. Seuss for the Broadway stage.
News from the Great White Way is that a certain group of producers are looking to turn that thing with the nasty attitude and green haired Grinch into a big stage extravaganza Broadway musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
The other news is that the producers are looking more to the Ron Howard/Jim Carrey film collaboration for their inspiration instead of the actual Dr. Seuss book. Two words – BAD IDEA! As much as I liked Carrey’s performance, that kind of portrayal just wouldn’t translate well in a stage show, unless of course it was Jim himself doing the performing, which will not be the case here.
According to an article in TV Guide the preview will start on October 25th with the Broadway debut geared for the beginning of the holiday season beginning November 8, 2006.
If they tried for the Carrey style physical comedy, I agree: it won’t work. I don’t think it would be that hard to draw down on the physical comedy aspect, and add a slightly more cerebral humor with songs to make this a decent broadway musical.
Look at the success of shows like Spamalot, Wicked, and The Producers. Comedy is not dead on Broadway.
The only funny thing in that movie was the part when the grinch wreaks havoc at the banquet, he runs outside and yells “Taxi!” and the cab speeds by.
The Grinch says, “Is it because I’m *green”!?”
I think I was the only one in the theatre (full of white people) who laughed out loud at that one.
I got an idea: Let’s NOT do a stage version of HTGSC.
‘K?