Mickorola — 15 years ago(July 28, 2010 08:47 PM)

I've just listened to her as Ursala in "The Little Mermaid" for the first time in about fifteen years. When I was a tiny tot, I liked listening to her song the most because I was always attracted to weird characters and Disney villains (she was, of course, both). Now, though, having grown into a theater buff, particularly of a musical predilection, I find myself contemplating performances more than before. And having listened to her more closely than before, I think her low, smokey voice and decadent delivery would be perfect for the aged courtesan in the current revival of "A Little Night Music." If the producers decide to rotate the cast regularly to keep the show running for as long as possible, she would be an excellent replacement after Elaine Stritch leaves the production.
And I know that she recorded "The Little Mermaid" over twenty years ago, and not being any major singer, her voice would not be the same nowadays; but just consider whom she is replacing. Just consider Hermione Gingold, the original Madame Armfeldt, whose vocals were were something of a cross between a croak and a purr. As long as she retains some of the under-the-grin mischief, the elegance and the husky, booming vocal qualities that made Ursala such a great character, she would be a wonderful replacement.
Anyone agree? Disagree?
"What did we do to deserve this? Were we those guys who killed Jesus in a past life?"