What about the current spat of boy-band actors and stars like Jake Gyllenhaal taking Broadway roles?
Price: Jake Gyllenhaal’s a wonderful actor, and I wish him well. The only time I think the Broadway community frowns is when it’s just a name to be a name, and they’re not skilled and not right for the role. And then that feels kind of cheap. I think movie stars are great. The more that want to come be on Broadway, that’s just swell with me. Gemignani: Exactly. And the fact of the matter is aside from what you might hear about it [Broadway is] a very protective and kind community. Nobody wants to see somebody up on the stage put there by some greedy producer who can’t do what they’ve been asked to do. It’s embarrassing to us watching, and certainly to them. I hate to see a performer failing. I agree with Lonny. Anybody who wants to come from the West Coast, get over here. Indy: What exactly makes Stephen Sondheim the best-known and, in many people’s words, “greatest” artist in musical theater? Gemignani: His material is totally honest, and intelligent and challenges you, like a great m
