Very interesting. It is having a huge effect. I went to New York from California, spent a bunch of money and saw 5 shows because I bonded with the cast of the show. The tourist board should thank David Ian. Unfortunately, for me, the actual Grease on Broadway show was very weak (and NOT because of the cast). The t.v. show was far more entertaining. If the show is not improved and the box office remains strong it will be solely as a result of the show.


You're the One That I Want! second-place finisher Ashley Spencer, who's now playing Amber von Tussle in Hairspray, won that coveted slot on her merits and not because the producers expect her to rake in the big bucks.
Ashley is VERY talented, charming, and adorable so she did get the role on her merits, but there is no doubt in my mind that she will help their box office tremendously once the word gets out that she is part of the cast.

Telsey, who put Idol contestant Anthony Fedorov into The Fantasticks earlier this year, actually sounds awed when he considers the preparation the final 24 American Idol hopefuls undergo. "Having to learn a new song every week -- that training is definitely helpful. Anything anyone does to exercise their craft is good. I'd love to give the show half the actors I see."
When Kathleen Marshall's brother was a guest judge on the show he told the contestants that this was WAY harder than any audition. I am also in awe of what the cast of the t.v. show did and they deserve all the success that comes from it.