My Marriage and Howard Ashman

In this house, we're very excited about "The Little Mermaid." I know how people of a certain age talk about Elvis; this is how I will refer to Howard Ashman, when I'm in retirement.

I'm ready to hold a cane, and widen my eyes, and whisper, "There will never be another Howard Ashman...."

Just a reminder that Ashman wrote the work that is now widely regarded as the greatest screen-to-stage adaptation in the history of entertainment. I'm talking about "Little Shop of Horrors." (I also tend to think that "Little Shop" might simply be the closest-to-perfect musical comedy in the canon....My apologies to Stephen Sondheim.)

Ashman wrote unforgettable characters, but he really excelled in the realm of villains: "Audrey II," the dentist, Gaston, D'Arque. Certainly his greatest achievement was Ursula, the Sea Witch, whom he modeled on Joan Collins and Divine. Disney's new effort will sink or swim as its Ursula sinks or swims; Daveed Diggs really doesn't matter, and the same is true for Javier Bardem. I wouldn't select Melissa McCarthy; I would have lobbied for Patti LuPone, or Bernadette Peters. But no one asked me.

It hurts my heart that my kids won't be old enough for "Mermaid" in 2023--but my husband and I are already planning a date night. I mean: The preliminary discussion has already occurred.

That's what is happening here in NJ; I'm ready to know what the (Disney) people know...When's it my turn? Wouldn't I love--love to explore the (CGI-enhanced) shore....up above....?

P.S. I will be away for a few days. Returning Wednesday, I think.

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