Pure Indulgence Part VI

After going cross-eyed while gathering statistics from the department's computerized medical records, it's time for some R&R.

If you don't like the direction this is going, feel free to drop by Singapore MD for something more intellectually stimulating. Whiny comments won't be published.

This entry is dedicated to male musical theatre stars.

First, John Barrowman, whom I mentioned recently after seeing him on BBC Entertainment's Any Dream Will Do -- a reality TV series which aired in the UK in 2007, pitched as a search for raw new talent to play the lead role in Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber's revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Already into its 3rd episode, I've got to say it's very entertaining, though at times a little too theatrical. I guess all that youthful energy makes it tough to be subtle, heh.

As my mother and I tuned in last night, she kept saying what "a huge pity" it is that Barrowman's gay. She must've made this remark at least 5 times. Awww, I feel your pain too, mom. :)

His biography lists Raoul ( Phantom Of The Opera ) and Bobby ( Stephen Sondheim's Company ) as past stage roles. You can sample his music on the IMEEM player on the right - just type his name in the box and click on the arrow. His cover of Carly Simon's You're So Vain is surprisingly good. Going to buy his CDs for my collection. :)

Next, Lee Mead, who's one of the contestants on Any Dream Will Do.

No spoiler alert since the show concluded 2 years ago. Suffice to say, I was too curious to pass up the chance to find out who won, and turns out Lee emerged the victor.

Funny thing is, when I first laid eyes on him during the first 2 episodes ( last week ), I knew nothing about his background and immediately picked him as my favourite of the lot. Partly because he has the right look, but also because he has a terrific voice and stage presence.

This week, it was revealed that he was an understudy for the role of Raoul on Phantom Of The Opera, but never got to perform because the principal actor didn't fall sick.

Can I pick 'em, or can I pick 'em? :)

Seems Lee became romantically involved with one of the show's judges soon after he won. Hooked up with Denise van Outen, a pretty blonde who's also 7 years older. They're now engaged to be married. Congratulations!

Next, on to another favourite, Raul Esparza, whom I've mentioned before during my Company obsession earlier this year, and whose photo I'd like to post as a gentle reminder.

He famously blasted Jeremy Piven for pulling out of Speed-The-Plow due to supposed mercury poisoning, and missed out on winning the Tony for Outstanding Actor in a Play.

Currently, he's starring opposite Anne Hathaway in a Broadway production of Twelfth Night.

I just hope he'll be acting in something when I'm back in NYC next year, or I'm going to pull my hair out.

Here he is with fellow Speed-The-Plow actors Elizabeth Moss and Piven ( who's on the right, in happier times ).

Last but not least, John Lloyd Young.

I may not have written about him for quite some time, but I still keep track of his career, and wish he'd release an album so I can buy it already.

He's acting in a comedy film, and making a guest appearance on the new Ryan Murphy ( Nip/Tuck creator ) TV series, Glee.

Thank you, L, for enabling me to catch the pilot episode, which I just know I'll love. :D

I really should drop JLY a fan letter one of these days, so I can receive another personal reply. It's fun. :)

Apologies for the tiny photo. It's one of the best ones available on the Net but comes in a low resolution, so I had to compromise.

Right, time to do an exit round, then head on home.