Some people daydream about their romantic interests, good grades or a tropical vacation. Here at WSN’s Arts desk, we’re too busy dreaming up scenarios where our favorite actors take on the exact roles we want them to. Whether it be everyone’s favorite LaGuardia High School graduate as Jonathan Larson or some of Broadway’s best voices on iconic scores, here are our dream casting choices.
Timothée Chalamet in “Tick, Tick… BOOM!”
I don’t care that the musical “Tick, Tick… BOOM!” was adapted into a film just four years ago. I desperately need Timothée Chalamet to play Jonathan Larson. A quick YouTube search reveals Chalamet’s undeniable stage presence, thanks to the plethora of zany talent show clips from his Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School days. The self-replenishing, unhinged energy that brought the world ‘Lil Timmy Tim would translate exceptionally well into Larson’s numbers like the kooky “Therapy” and the frenetically-paced “30/90.” Apart from hilarious lamentations about the bohemian lifestyle’s woes and fits over his unfinished musical, I’m confident Chalamet’s Larson would tug on all the right heartstrings. The actor has the skills to depict the composer’s inner turmoil in the wake of the AIDS epidemic and his own ticking clock.
— Dani Biondi, Arts Editor
Christian Borle in “The Rocky Horror Show”
“The Rocky Horror Show” just announced its return to Broadway after 24 years, and you better believe that I will be campaigning for Christian Borle to undertake the lead role, Dr. Frank-N-Furter. After Borle’s saucy portrayal of William Shakespeare in “Something Rotten!” in 2015 and his flamboyant drag performance as Joe in “Some Like It Hot” in 2022, it’s clear that he has the je ne sais quoi necessary to portray the iconic Frank-N-Furter. Borle thrives in these eccentric roles, and with the new production of “The Rocky Horror Show” on the horizon, I can think of no one better to dawn the iconic fishnets and corset.
— Skylar Boilard, Performing Arts Editor
Denzel Washington in “King Lear”
Look, I know Denzel Washington’s “Othello” was not received very kindly, but, come on. This is Washington we’re talking about here, his stacked resume and critical acclaim speaks for itself. Put this man in a Shakespeare play on Broadway and I have no doubt people will pay whatever they can to see it. Butts will be in seats, end of story. “King Lear” is the holy grail for a decorated Shakespearean actor 70 or over — Washington deserves his shot at it. Hell, we deserve to see it. If his recent press junkets have shown us anything, it is that we are now graced with a more contemplative Washington, a man that commands deep respect. To see his newfound maturity in action with the mad king, a powerhouse role that is truly taxing on the actor’s body, is something devoutly to be wished.
— Joe Paladino, Staff Writer
Ryan Vasquez in “The Outsiders”
Ryan Vasquez is one of the most underrated actors on Broadway. Despite his beautiful vocal range and raw talent, his credits in shows like “Wicked,” “Hamilton” and “The Notebook” have only been as a supporting character or understudy. After seeing his performance as Darrel Curtis at the La Jolla Playhouse production of “The Outsiders,” it confirmed that this was his calling. His stage presence, his demeanor and plethora of experience makes him a perfect fit.
— Ellie DaSilva, Contributing Writer
Annaleigh Ashford in “Les Misérables”
I still think about seeing Annaleigh Ashford as Mrs. Lovett in “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” two years ago on Broadway. I would argue that she rivaled lead Josh Groban, and her impeccable vocals cannot go to waste. With her bold and unforgettable acting style, Ashford would make a great Madame Thénardier in “Les Misérables.” This villainous role requires someone who is passionate and full of energy and character, and Ashford is exactly that. If you don’t believe me, just listen to the 2023 cast recording version of “The Worst Pies in London” from “Sweeney Todd” and you’ll understand.
— Nisma Qureshi, Contributing Writer
Contact the Arts Desk at [email protected].
