Katie Holmes Hits Broadway
In case you haven’t heard, previews began Thursday night for the revival of Arthur Miller’s great play, "All My Sons," on Broadway.
In case you don’t know, Katie Holmes — aka Mrs. Tom Cruise — has a small role in the production which otherwise stars two-time Oscar-winner Dianne Wiest, Tony-winner and movie powerhouse John Lithgow and the up-and-comer Patrick Wilson.
The first night — which is not the opening night — was something of a circus, as I am told by two reliable sources who plunked down their money and went on to see the show.
For one thing, Mr. Holmes — aka Tom Cruise — was there, and he was no shrinking violet. A proud husband, Tom entered the Schoenfeld Theater to massive applause, thanks to the star-struck audience. Before he took his seat in the orchestra section, on the aisle, fifth row, he waved and bowed for the audience.
My spies say that at the end of the show, Tom was first on his feet with wildly enthusiastic applause, too. He doesn’t seem to get that this isn’t one of his kids’ soccer games, but hey, at least he’s a present and loyal husband.
One thing my peeps were surprised by: Lithgow and Wiest didn’t take separate star curtain calls. I’m told that they are so good, and the real reason for seeing this production, that they should re-think that plan. Perhaps they will in time.
I’m also told that Simon McBurney’s direction is superb. Lithgow, Wiest, McBurney, Miller. These are the reasons to see “All My Sons.” Even Katie Holmes knows that.
So how is Katie? “She doesn’t embarrass herself or anyone else,” says my spy. “She’s fine.”
Remember: this is what Katie wanted to do in New York before she met Tom. It’s what she told me at the premiere of “Steel Magnolias” on Broadway in April 2005. Call it a dream deferred. Theater wags and tabloid gossips can’t have it both ways: if we want Katie Holmes to try to be the fine actress she was trying to be in “Pieces of April,” she shouldn’t be knocked for taking this part. More power to her for trying something hard and succeeding.
One odd observation by my spies: they say that about two dozen well-dressed young people poured into the theater with Cruise, and took orchestra seats. “They were dressed like they were going to a nightclub. The vibe was weird. They all knew each other. It was not a regular theater crowd.” Future audiences should take note if this continues.
The other word from the Schoenfeld Thursday night was about the “protesters.” This is the group that calls itself Anonymous, wearing “V for Vendetta" masks. They say they are against Scientology and shout out “Save Katie.” I must say, this is completely inappropriate. I hope they stop this as soon as possible. There is nothing to be gained by harassing theatergoers on West 45th St. Scientology has nothing whatsoever to do with this theater production. Causing this disruption is disrespectful to the professionals who are involved in “All My Sons.” Let’s leave them all alone.
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