Do you need "Names" in professional shows to be successful?

Im in sydney as part of the company of west side story at the moment and we don't have any T.V personalities or other B grade soap stars but we are still selling out for every show. But on the other hand, if the show is newer or when the name of the show isn't enough to sell it then it's understandable. But if they aren't up to the role then it shouldn't be a question, they should still have the chops for the part. Ultimately it should still be about talent.

• reply
• 0 votes

saw rob guest in wicked and and enjoyed it. also saw bert, i was embarassed, for god sake give some up and coming talent a chance, or there will be no one to learn the craft or god forbid like in the old days in aust we imported a name from overseas, and filled the chorus with locals, ha ha ha the add for west side story just came on the tv enough said

• reply
• -3 votes

I'm a firm believer in 'talent over profile'. I reckon Australian audiences are being sold short by producers who continue to cast 'name' actors. I've just returned from the UK and only one show I saw had a 'name' (I might add that only english soapie watchers would know this girl, I didn't), all of the others were talent driven. BTW Whilst in London the Jonas Bros were 'starring' in Les Mis for three weeks. I heard, from one punter, after a performance that they were 'average at best'. A glowing review indeed.

• reply
• -6 votes

After lots of 'whispers' that top names were going to be this role and that role and then finally having seen the final Aussie cast list for Hairspray - I can't recognise any 'big name' on that list at all.
I agree with the 'west side story' comment and I hope it sells out just based on talent and good feedback from audience.

Yes, talent should definitely sell rather than 'a name' - I mean, they (the ‘names’) can't last forever! It’s time to see some new names/talent, hit the big time shows.

• reply
• -3 votes