Patti LuPone, the legendary Broadway actress known for her powerful performances in shows like “Evita” and “Gypsy,” has issued an apology for controversial remarks she made about fellow actresses Audra McDonald and Kecia Lewis. The comments came during a recent interview in which LuPone was asked about a dispute over noise levels on Broadway.
In the interview, LuPone expressed frustration over the noise levels in theaters, particularly during performances of musicals. She singled out McDonald and Lewis, two of Broadway’s most celebrated performers, for their vocal prowess, saying that their powerful voices contributed to the problem.
“I love Audra and Kecia, they are incredibly talented performers,” LuPone said. “But sometimes their voices can be a bit too much, especially in smaller theaters where the acoustics are not as forgiving. It can be overwhelming for the audience and distracting from the overall experience.”
The comments sparked backlash from fans and fellow actors, who accused LuPone of unfairly targeting McDonald and Lewis. Many pointed out that both actresses have received critical acclaim for their vocal abilities and have earned numerous awards for their performances on Broadway.
In response to the criticism, LuPone issued a statement apologizing for her remarks. “I want to sincerely apologize to Audra and Kecia for the words I used in my interview,” she said. “I have the utmost respect for both of them as artists and I deeply regret any offense I may have caused.”
McDonald and Lewis have not publicly commented on the controversy, but sources close to both actresses have indicated that they were hurt by LuPone’s comments. “Audra and Kecia are both consummate professionals who take their craft very seriously,” one source said. “They were surprised and disappointed by Patti’s remarks, but they are focused on their work and moving forward.”
Despite the apology, the incident has reignited a debate within the Broadway community about the balance between vocal power and audience experience. Some actors argue that performers should be able to showcase their full range of talents without fear of criticism, while others believe that consideration should be given to the overall impact on the audience.
In a recent interview with Playbill, Broadway director and choreographer Susan Stroman weighed in on the controversy. “As artists, we all have a responsibility to consider the impact of our performances on the audience,” she said. “It’s important to find a balance between showcasing our talents and creating an enjoyable experience for the people who come to see us.”
The incident has also sparked discussions about the broader issue of noise levels in theaters and the challenges of performing in different venues. Some actors have called for more attention to be paid to sound design and acoustics in theaters, while others argue that performers should be able to adapt their performances to suit the space.
As the Broadway community grapples with these issues, one question remains: How can actors and audiences find a balance between artistic expression and audience experience in the world of live theater?