bethke14

I definitely will let you know! Seeing this show is the main reason for my NYC trip this year -- I tried to see Raul Esparza in The Homecoming last year, but was foiled by a major snow storm, so my fingers are crossed for this trip.

msteacher

We have tickets for January. At first I was disappointed to hear that Piven had left, but now I'm thrilled to get to see William H Macy. I think we lucked out!

Skiergirl

I recently met Raul Esparza at a benefit and he was the nicest and most handsome man! My mother is absolutely in love with him and started crying when she met him as she was so happy. He is talented and gracious, and if I were to see that show it would be because of him, not Piven (although I like him too). I'm sure it'll still be very enjoyable.

I saw Norbert Leo Butz in the original cast of Wicked and he was fantastic!

nytraveler

Apparently Piven has made other excuses to try to get out of his contract - they just decided to let this one stick. Don;t know if he's really sick or not.

In any case, the producers - very generously I consider - have allowed people to return tickets - although I'm sure the replacements will be better than Piven.

ncounty

Wow, the stuff you learn here! sushi, mercury poisoning, and one of my favorite actors, William H. Macy in a Broadway show!!! I'll have to plan a trip to NY to see him.

ncounty

Makes me feel like I am playing Clue....I'll guess Jeremy Piven IN the dining room WITH the sushi. It done him in...

britelites

that's bs that he had to leave...what was the reason again lol wasn't he partying too much

PegS

309, I'm glad you're keeping your tickets. Esparza is a wonder. Any opportunity to see him is not to be missed. Butz is a great actor as well and the two of them on stage should be electrifying.

bethke14

I saw Speed the Plow on Saturday evening, December 27 and LOVED it. Raul Esparza, as the reviews said, was incredible. Norbert Leo Butz did a great job as well, though he wasn't off book for part of Act III.

When I picked up my tickets at will call, the poor man in the booth looked at me dejectedly before handing me the tickets and said "You know Jeremy Piven won't be on tonight, right?" He just looked so worried about my reaction that I felt horrible for him. I imagine he's said that phrase many times and received less than pleasant responses.

But I digress. Great show -- I really enjoyed it.

309pbg

Thanks Bethke. We will see the show tomorrow night! Looking forward to it. Friends of ours saw Butz's opening night and he was on script for the whole show. They used it as a learning experience for their two sons. The support Norbert received from the rest of the cast was wonderful and I understand he did a great job. The atmosphere in the theatre was super positive as many of his friends were there for his opening. I believe my friends said he and cast received a standing ovation.