One of the annual Broadway traditions will have its 2015 run when Broadway Unplugged happens on January 26, at The Town Hall. The yearly show is a great chance to hear Broadway stars show off their singing voices and performance ability in their natural glory – without amplification. As we wait for the event, here are five ideas we have for next week’s show using some of the performers from the partially released castlist.
William Michals singing “Who Can I Turn to When Nobody Needs Me” from The Roar of the Greasepaint, the Smell of the Crowd
What would be a good choice for America's baritone? Why not something from this Anthony Newley musical? Sure, everyone performs “Feeling Good” from this forgotten show but the score is filled with other impressive numbers like this great song which would be a fine choice for baritone William Michals.
Elizabeth Stanley singing “I Don’t Want to Walk Without You” from Sweater Girl
On one hand I’d love for Elizabeth Stanley to show off her game comedic chops with a comedic number next week (like “Capped Teeth and Caesar Salad” from Song & Dance) but Broadway Unplugged is so great for allowing audiences to hear less famous tunes and the gorgeous Jules Styne ditty “I Don’t Want to Walk Without You” would be a great opportunity for Stanley to show off her range.
Chuck Cooper singing from Sweeney Todd
Cooper’s distinctive voice does not get half the showcase it deserves, so to make it for it he should get a chance to sing a number from one of Broadway’s strongest leading roles. Just imagine the things he would do with “Epiphany”.
Tonya Pinkins singing from Gypsy
My dream version of Tonya Pinkins and Anika Noni Rose in Gypsy is probably unlikely at this point, so I’ll accept Tonya Pinkins performing any number of Rose’s. Bonus points, of course, if she closes the show singing “Rose’s Turn”. Further bonus points if she and Chuck Cooper (they sung together in Caroline, or Change) team up so they can perform “Small World” together.
Any particular number you'd love to hear Unplugged next week?
