Saw it tonight (9/6). I got Madison. I have not seen Katrina, but from the videos I’ve seen, Madison’s Dina felt sweeter. I asked Sharone at the stage door and she’ll be on as Dina on Saturday at 2 and on Sunday at 3.
I will caveat this by saying I have not seen Katrina Lenk's performance live. After seeing the movie a while ago, I fell in love with this show and watched every clip of it I could find (but of course, not the same as live.)
So, Sharone's performance was overall lovely. She came off a bit stiff during the first few numbers. Perhaps not surprising given it was her first time performing the role. (Though doubt much of the audience knew that - kind of wish I hadn't either). But she eased into it. Her Dina was tough as nails but looked very young to me, younger than I imagined Dina to be. She's also very petite which maybe added to it? But it created an interesting dynamic between her & Tewfiq, as Sasson Gabai is old enough to be her father at least. Her intrigue in him was so palpable and almost naive, as it was immediately clear from him that it would not be reciprocated in a romantic sense. It never felt like a "what if" or missed opportunity for romance between them. Rather, the beauty in their story was watching their connection unfold in such different ways for each person.
But I would be lying if I said her vocal performance blew me away. Her voice needed some extra oomph...it just didn't seem as solid or as strong as the rest of Dina's character. Nevertheless, I was absolutely mesmerized by Omar Sharif. The lighting, the music, the movements. And the show in general is one of the most beautiful and different theater experiences I've had.
The cast is outstanding, and I'm grateful I got to see the majority of the OBC (aside from Katrina & Tony). I was able to chat with Sasson Gabai after the show a bit as well which was so cool. I would love to hear anyone else's experiences seeing Sharone or Madi?
This report about Sharone is why I wonder how the show will go on when Katrina leaves. It IS gorgeous no question, but so much of its beauty rests upon the punch Dina packs. It is such a specific kind of performance required (which is to say no doubt Sharone is INCREDIBLY talented), but if the role doesn't fit the performer like a sultry glove, I don't see it working the same way. Again I say, if she is in fact leaving in October and not renewing her contract, I pray they are diligently at work to find the right replacement.
I saw Katrina back in March and have been such a huge fan of her Dina since I first saw a video of her singing "Omar Sharif". I saw the show on Tuesday with my parents who were seeing the show for the first time and Madison was in for Dina. Her Dina was incredible. All of the great acting moments, the dialect, and the sultriness were all there. And her voice was thrilling and very clear and strong. I was even more surprised to learn that Madison is not even 30 yet. The show was just as thrilling the second time.
I saw the show Saturday night and thought Madison was great. I’ve seen it four times with Katrina and I would happily see it four more times with Madison. The audience seemed to love her too, giving her an ovation after "Omar Sharif" with cheers and at least one whistle. I agree that Madison’s Dina seems sweeter — or softer — than Katrina’s Dina. I also thought her longing for Tewfiq in "Something Different" came through more strongly, and more movingly, than in Katrina’s version. The upshot is that while I was in awe of Katrina’s Dina, I was touched by Madison’s Dina.
Has anyone heard anything else about Katrina Lenk's continuance with the show? I was debating seeing this on my trip in December, but prefer to see as many original casts as possible. I usually only get to see touring casts. Thanks!
Does that mean that Lenk is out all of next week? I'm sure her understudies are great, but I have a ticket to see the show again next weekend and I specifically was hoping to see her again.
"What was the name of that cheese that I like?"
"you can't run away forever...but there's nothing wrong with getting a good head start"
"well I hope and I pray, that maybe someday, you'll walk in the room with my heart"