"Lady Day ..." - Audra in London

[Gordonb]

Audra McDonald is receiving great reviews for her performance (although the show itself isn't being so appreciated) in "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill". It is often referred to as her London "debut".

I don't know who defines such matters, but I believe I saw her "debut" solo performance way back in 1999 as part of the 'Divas at the Donmar' series- Patti Lupone one week,  Audra the next - that was a summer to remember; as was the 1998 season which comprised  Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway in "Sibling Revelry; Barbara Cook and Imelda Staunton. Just seeing all those names together again sends shivers up my spine.

It doesn't really matter when her "debut" was, it's just the old pedant in me!

[Leighton]

Did you ever see Philip Quast?  His album of that concert is one of my favourites

[Gordonb]

Did you ever see Philip Quast?  His album of that concert is one of my favourites

No I missed his show although I did see Janie Dee in the same year.  I enjoy the album too, he seems very personable. Looking forward to his Ben and Dee's Phyllis.

[Vera Charles]

Did you ever see Philip Quast?  His album of that concert is one of my favourites

No I missed his show although I did see Janie Dee in the same year.  I enjoy the album too, he seems very personable. Looking forward to his Ben and Dee's Phyllis.

I still can't believe I missed all of these. 😱😱😱
Janie Dee is one of my favourite performers/actors I can't wait to see/hear her as Phyllis. She should be perfect. I also had Quast's Divas at the Donmar (I think Rick might have given me the copy) and played it almost constantly for a couple of years. I must look it up again.
Re Audra, there was a very engaging interview with her on Radio 4's Front Row, but I haven't been aware of much more coverage - my fault probably for not paying enough attention

[Gordonb]

Did you ever see Philip Quast?  His album of that concert is one of my favourites

No I missed his show although I did see Janie Dee in the same year.  I enjoy the album too, he seems very personable. Looking forward to his Ben and Dee's Phyllis.

I still can't believe I missed all of these. 😱😱😱

Well it's nearly 20 years ago when, let's face it, you were barely out of nappies!

[Bobster]

I guess debut refers to acting or character debut...


She was a marvel when she played it here and I bet she is just as great across the pond.