The Elton John–Jake Shears Broadway musical Tammy Faye will close on December 8^th – less than a month after its November 14^th opening.  Curiously, the musical was a major hit in London’s West End where it won multiple awards.  On Broadway, it was universally panned by critics.  What changed?  We’re told the creators tinkered with the show in between the runs.  And let us not forget that Andrew Rannells created the role of Jim Bakker in London, but he was replaced on Broadway by Christian Borle due to a “contract disagreement”.

In far happier news, the reunion of original Hairspray gals Marissa Jaret Winokur, Kerry Butler and Laura Bell Bundy at New World Stages has been extended.  Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now was slated for a one-month off-Broadway run.  It’s been extended a second month and will now close on December 21^st.  The show got a ringing endorsement from Hairspray creators Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.  Marc was so ebullient, he posted this: “If you love musicals, friendship, motherhood and outright joy, I can’t encourage you enough to go see this delightful show.  I’m so glad Scott Wittman and I stopped our lawyer from sending them a cease-and-desist order!”

Speaking of shows you shouldn’t miss, there are two I’m flying to see in Los Angeles.  The fantastic Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood will present the incomparable Marilyn Maye on Tuesday, December 3^rd and Broadway’s own Hugh Panaro on Thursday, December 5^th.  If I could, I’d see Jackie Beat on Friday, December 6^th, but I’m otherwise engaged.  You can get tix at CatalinaJazzClub.com.  See you there!