=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= B E T W E E N T H E L I N E S [tm] Volume 6, Issue 3 - May 26, 1994 DDDDD D D D D GGGG D D G DDDDD G GGG G G GGGG A Debbie Gibson Discussion Forum =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= CONTENTS =- ADMINISTRATIVE NOTES AN AMERICAN IN LONDON'S DREAM COME TRUE - Sara Gauchat "HELLO!" MAGAZINE INTERVIEW - Dominic Thomas DEBBIE'S LAST DAY IN GREASE - Richard Arden D.G.I.F. VOL. VI NO. 2 REVIEW - Kimberley Kline GOODBYE TO SANDRA DEE - Chris Foote DEBWATCH CLOSING REMARKS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= DISCLAIMER =- This forum does not necessarily reflect the views of Deborah Ann Gibson, Gibson Management Inc. (GMI), the Atlantic Recording Corporation, Electronic Music Industries, or any organizations to which members belong or represent. Opinions expressed in Between the Lines are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the entire forum. All lyrics by Debbie Gibson are copyrighted by Deborah Ann's Music, ASCAP or Possibilities Publishing, Inc./EMI April Music, Inc., ASCAP. Between the Lines operates on a non-profit basis. Distribution is permissible only under the condition that no part of it will be used for profit. "Between the Lines" and "BtL" are trademarks of Between the Lines. Copyright 1994, Between the Lines. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= ADMINISTRATIVE NOTES =- Between the Lines has a new central account and e-mail address. Please send all administrative requests and submissions to: btl@egbt.org Information regarding submissions via e-mail, the supplemental "bouncing" mailing list, using Telnet to talk to other BtL members in real time, and obtaining GIFs and BtL back issues via anonymous FTP will now be sent to members upon joining the BtL mailing list. You may request this information by sending e-mail to the address the listed below. Complete information will be included in the administrative notes twice a year. To submit articles by postal mail, please proofread and send them to the postal address listed below. Submissions should be typed or written legibly. To submit articles by FAX, please call (604) 322-5936. We reserve the right to edit, defer, or reject submissions without notice. Submissions become the property of BtL. BETWEEN THE LINES 2137 Qualicum Drive Vancouver, B.C. V5P 2M3 CANADA For those of you who do not have access to electronic mail, you may subscribe via postal mail. 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Issues are always mailed via first class. -= BtL moderators =- Myra Wong : mkwong@ucsd.edu mkwong@ucsd.bitnet Felix Ng : fng@acca.nmsu.edu 1:153/915 on Fidonet =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= AN AMERICAN IN LONDON'S DREAM COME TRUE =- Sara Gauchat - Hudson, Ohio April 14, 1994 When I heard that Deborah would be fulfilling her dream of playing Sandy in Grease on the West End I knew that I had to find a way to go. So, many months later, I found myself with my family, a fellow Debhead (Jennifer Mussi), and her friend on a plane over to jolly old England to see Deborah acting her heart out as Sandra Dee from March 12-18, 1994. I was fortunate enough to see Grease three nights in a row, and all I can say is... wow! I was just completely blown away by the entire show. It was even better than I had imagined (and believe me, I had high expectations). Deborah was absolutely fabulous! The whole cast was fantastic (especially Craig), and they made for a wonderful evening. Jen and I waited for Deborah outside the stage door each night before the show, but we missed her each time because she either went in the front, or we got there too late. But on our first night, as we waited for Deborah after the show, we noticed Dave (her driver) take her car around to a side door. Naturally, we followed, and right out came Josephine and Albert, Diane Gibson, and Deborah herself. Her grandmother told us, "Not tonight girls," which we respected. But as we were standing there, in a combination of shock and awe, Deborah made it a point to give us a couple of greetings as she got into the car. Then, as the Gibsons were waiting in the car for Diane, who had gone back into the theater, Deborah smiled at me again, and made like she was going to talk to me. But right at that moment people noticed she was there, and the entire place became a mob scene, so I just backed away, because I didn't want to crowd her. They drove away then, and Deb made a point out of waving to Jen and I as they were leaving. The next night after the show, I got to live out a dream of my own, in addition to seeing Deborah act out hers. Jen and I got to go inside the theater right afterwards and actually spend quality time with our idol. I have met her a few times before, but I've never got the chance to spend a substantial amount of personal time with her, so I was in seventh heaven! Inside the theater, we waited for a few minutes while Deborah was getting changed, but then she finally came down, with warm greetings for us. It was just Deborah, Dave, Jen, and I, so we were just talking about everything for a long time - basically just hanging out. Of course, we got autographs and pictures, and Deborah was so incredibly nice to us. The strange thing was that I didn't feel like I was talking to a star that I had idolized for seven years, but more like I was talking to an old good friend that I haven't seen in awhile. Deborah was so sweet (not to mention funny!), and it was obvious that she's very happy. It was such a fantastic experience! On our last night there, we waited with the crowd of people outside the stage door, despite the freezing temperature. When Deborah came out, she came right over to Jen and I, telling us how she read the stuff we gave her yesterday and how much she enjoyed it. She chatted with us for awhile, signed more autographs, and posed for more pictures. Deborah was a real trooper, making time for everyone outside, even though she kept saying how cold she was. Then when she was leaving, she made it a point to say goodbye to us, and tell us to have a safe trip home. Once again, she seemed really glad that we were there, and she was more than kind to us. My trip to London (which, incidentally, is the best city ever!), was definitely the greatest experience of my life! I want to thank Julie at GMI and Dave for making it all possible, and the entire Grease cast (especially Craig and Shane) for being such nice people and for putting on such a wonderful show. Of course, I want to thank Deborah most of all for being who she is, and for bringing so much to my life over the years. My one wish for her is that she achieve as much happiness in life that she's brought to me. Congratulations, Deborah, on a job superbly done (no one could have done better!), and thanks again for everything! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= "HELLO!" MAGAZINE INTERVIEW =- Dominic Thomas - London, England (d.thomas01@ic.ac.uk) May 9, 1994 Deb was interviewed in the British gossip magazine "HELLO!" last month. It's a really nice interview covering four pages with five large, full colour pictures of Deb in her London apartment. On the first page, there's the standard press picture of Deb in her "You're The One That I Want" costume being held by Craig, with the caption: "When Debbie leaves 'Grease', it's the cast she'll miss most. She has a very good rapport with her co-star, ex-Neighbours actor Craig McLachlan." Below that is a nice picture of Deb sitting on a couch, with her head resting on her mother's shoulder, with the caption: "Debbie's mother Diane has flown to London to spend time with her daughter." Deb's wearing this weird full-length silver dress with a goldy-green full-length gown over it. They both look like they're made out of aluminium foil or something! It could do with ironing too! On the wall behind them is a water colour painting of a river. At the top of the next page is a massive pic of Deb standing in the middle of her apartment looking very elegant in the same dress and gown as before. The room has, I don't know, 1930's styling, I guess. The whole thing's certainly very green! Behind Deb are two large windows with green and gold curtains, kind of matches her dress. Just in front are two green upholstered wooden chairs. The carpet's light green with a darker green pattern and the couch is green as well. In front of the couch is a wooden coffee table with a few books on it, one's about herbs and another's about Sondheim. In the far left corner there's another wooden table with a couple of pot plants, a lamp and a cute toy fox on it. Over the page is a nice one of Deb sitting on the worktop in her kitchen with the caption: "Debbie, renowned as one of America's most talented young composers, in casual dress in the modern kitchen. When she leaves 'Grease', she will turn her attention once again to composing and touring." She's wearing a black miniskirt with black tights, black shoes and a low cut black top. Over that she's wearing a sky blue waistcoat tied in the middle, with large white dots and a gold, leafy sort of pattern. Her hair is tied in two plaits (braids). The kitchen's made up of black units with white tops and white tiles on the walls. Next to her is a framed picture of Mickey Mouse. At the top of the last page is a picture of Deb molesting her soft toys. Well, it looks like she's trying to squash one with her feet! She's really just lying on her bed reading a book, with four or five toy animals lying around. She's wearing a white t-shirt and white shorts and her hair's in a sort of pony tail. In the background is her desk with piles of books, including a load of note books which hopefully contain the next album. Cute pic! The last one is of Deb and Diane again with the caption: "Mother Diane is Debbie's best friend and business manager, and Debbie turns to her whenever there are decisions that have to be made." This time they're sitting at a table drinking coffee. Deb's wearing brown jeans and a low cut top. This is another weird one, looks a bit like it's made out of small coils of rusty springs! But it's probably just wool. Behind them is an oil painting of some 18th or 19th century woman. The interview itself is really good; Deb comes across as nice as ever and she reveals a lot of interesting stuff about her future plans. Just a quick note, at one point she says she's going to be the first American to tour Vietnam since the war, apparently that's not true since John Denver's going to beat her to it by playing there this summer. Oh, those lucky Vietnamese! Anyway, enjoy the interview and don't forget to play "Spot the Major Factual Errors," there's at least two massive ones! HELLO! - April 16th, 1994 DEBBIE GIBSON THE STAR OF THE MUSICAL GREASE INVITES US TO HER HOME IN KENSINGTON AND TELLS WHY SHE'S LEAVING THE HIT SHOW Sitting on the floor of her walk-in wardrobe inside her immaculate Kensington flat, American pop star Debbie Gibson taps out a rhythmic beat on her bongo drums. For the 23-year-old, currently starring as Sandy in the hit musical Grease, playing her drums is one of the best forms of relaxation offstage. With a 12-track recorder, not to mention a full-scale keyboard and numerous other musical accoutrements all squeezed into the tiny room, there is little space for Debbie, let alone her rail of designer clothes. But Debbie Gibson would not have it any other way. "As it's a windowless closet there's less chance of disturbing the neighbours with the noise!" she explains. Renowned as one of America's most talented young composers, she remains unfazed by her exceptional musical achievements. For having started composing at five, Debbie already has three best-selling albums to her name (selling some nine million copies), two U.S. number one hits and a string of top tens. Indeed, by the age of 16, Debbie was the youngest American artist ever to write, produce and perform a number one single - Only In My Dreams. Not content just to write and perform her own songs, Debbie took part in productions of 'La Boheme' and 'The Marriage Of Figaro' at the New York Met in her teens. In 1992 she made her debut on Broadway in the musical 'Les Miserables', then turned down a leading role in the movie 'Sister Act II' to take her current position in the West End musical 'Grease' - a show which smashed box-office records with advance sales of five million pounds. Debbie is the first to admit, though, that behind her phenomenal success lies her best friend and business manager, her mother Diane. Recently, Diane flew over from their Long Island home to spend time with Debbie before she left the cast of 'Grease' at the beginning of the month to turn her attentions once again to composing and touring. Here Debbie talks to 'HELLO!' of her plans for the future. Q: 'Grease' has been such and overwhelming success, yet you've decided to quit the show after just nine months? "At the beginning I asked for an even shorter contract because I get bored doing the same thing for a long period of time. Also, I knew there would come a time when I'd be itching to get back to my music. Nine months was their minimum and my maximum." Q: Has playing the role of Sandy lived up to your expectations? "Yes, in every way. I was delighted when I originally saw the stage script because it appeared to have more room for comedy and guts than the film script. In the film the role was much wimpier and far less spicy." Q: Do you sometimes feel you've metamorphosed into Sandy - on and off stage? "Well, first of all I'd NEVER put on a pair of black spandex pants to get a man. I suppose in life I'm somewhere between Sandy at the beginning and Sandy at the end. "I'm not quite as prissy as the one at the beginning and not as vampy as the one portrayed at the end!" Q: Having played to an ecstatic crowd for some 300 performances won't you suffer a terrific anti-climax when the curtain comes down on April 9? "No, not really. It's a concept you deal with every night. One minute you're in front of a screaming crowd and the next you're sitting alone in your room reading a magazine. "When I go on my own tours I'm dealing with even more hysteria because I am the show, whereas here, the star is Grease, not me. So I think I'm well adjusted to cope because my whole life has been like that." Q: What will you miss most? "The cast, without a doubt. I've made some really good friends and it will be sad leaving them." Q: Is there anyone in the cast more important than the others? "How did you guess! There is someone special, but I don't want to say too much. People might get funny with him about it. It started a few months ago more as a companionship so goodness knows what will happen when I go back to the States." Q: You seem to have a very good rapport on stage with Craig McLachlan (Danny). That must make the part even more entertaining and fun? "He makes me die sometimes, he's so funny. We have a very good rapport on stage and the funniest things always happen during the show when our mikes are turned down. He'll bring up something to do with my personal life and I'll crack up. When my Grandma was in town I asked him to come and say 'Hi' to her after the show. He appeared in my dressing room dressed in a G-string and playing his guitar. Luckily, I have a very hip Grandma!" Q: Has your successful run on the West End stage led to a plethora of other offers? "There have been a couple of instances when I didn't realise film directors were in the audience, then I'd hear they wanted to come backstage. And yes, there have been some exciting offers. There's one role I'm currently in discussion over which would be wonderful. It's a romantic comedy and what appeals most is that it's very much along the lines of 'Funny Girl' - my favourite movie. "My sister Karen and I also had a meeting recently with Henry Winkler over a screen play we finished writing last year, so hopefully something should come of that." Q: You have also been invited to tour South Vietnam at the end of the year - isn't this quite an unusual invitation? "Yes. It's the first time an American performer has been invited to tour the country since the war. I feel very honoured. I was told the Government wanted to have a big concert and the reasoning for them to invite me is that they regard me as a positive person with a positive image." Q: Are you nervous about old emotions being stirred? "I'm not too nervous about that, no. But I do realise that everyone's going to have an opinion about it because there were so many people who were anti the war and America's involvement. It's probably still quite a touchy subject. The only way I feel I should look at it is I'm a performer and they are people in need of entertainment. We're all human beings no matter what's happened in history." Q: At just 23 years old, you've produced three albums, two number one hits, a string of top tens, played Broadway and the West End - is there anything left to aspire to? "Plenty! I think of all my plans for the future and think 'Oh God, I hope I have enough time for all of them'. My base is classical music and I'd love at some point to get serious about my classical piano again. I'd like to try my hand at conducting and do more scoring. I also want to direct for stage or screen." Q: You recently signed a lucrative recording contract with EMI - what does that entail? "It's a multiple worldwide album contract which is tremendous. I've been working with EMI in publishing for years but the second they got wind that I might be moving away from Atlantic records they hopped on a plane to London and asked to see everything I'd written while over here. "What appeals to me is the company's enthusiasm. They're into music - image and all the rest of that stuff is secondary, which is so refreshing." Q: What was the very first piece of music you wrote? "I was five and wrote a wonderful piece called 'Make Sure You Know Your Classroom'! It was the only experience I had to draw on. I still have the original piece of music!" Q: Through all your obvious hard work and determination, have you now achieved millionaire status? "It's hard to say but in investments yes, I suppose I have. My first big chunk of money really went on my 48-track recording studio at home in Long Island. I built it on to the house - but when it comes to cash, I don't have a million dollars lying around waiting to be spent!" Q: Do you have any particular weakness when it comes to spending money? "Yes. My real weaknesses are clothes and studio equipment. I also love buying gifts for my family. I've just bought my cousin Monica a car for Christmas - she's just started at college and I know how difficult it can be for college students to scrape together enough money to buy their own. And I bought my mum a special Hungarian cross of sapphires and turquoises. My philosophy is if something costs $5 or $5,000 it doesn't matter - if it's the perfect gift for someone then I have to get it for them." Q: Apart from shopping, what are your other hobbies? "At the moment I'm taking a philosophy course at the College of Economic Science. I love it as it gives me the opportunity to get my mind round something other than music and performing." Q: To date what do you believe has been your greatest achievement? "I'm most proud of knowing in my heart that I've remained the same throughout all the ups and downs. Being thought of as a nice person is far more important than being a star and I think if you can combine the two then to me that's probably my ultimate goal." Q: And what of the future - do you see yourself touring ad infinitum or do you think you'll settle down? "I definitely want to marry and have kids. Three of my own and three adopted. When I toured South East Asia I saw children living in such horrendous conditions - you'd be in the car on the way to a concert and literally hundreds of kids would come out of the woodwork and gather around begging. I want to take some of those kids out of that environment because who knows what they could do or be if given the opportunity. My father was an orphan and was never adopted. I know how much I get from my mum as far as emotional support goes. To be without that would be like the worst thing in the world." =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= DEBBIE'S LAST DAY IN GREASE =- Richard Arden - Sheffield, England (R.B.Arden@sheffield.ac.uk) May 24, 1994 Saturday, April 9th, 1994 The last day began; I got up and headed towards London. (Yes, I know, that isn't particularly exciting so far.) I arrived at the Dominion about half an hour to eleven, and was shocked that there was already about fifteen people there, filling out cards, getting presents ready for Deb, and generally getting cold (the weather wasn't too warm!). Anyway, after a long-ish wait, and a nice cup of coffee from Burger King (despite the fact that Burger King coffee isn't renowned for being nice), Deb arrived in the Jaguar with Dave. I think it was about 12:30 P.M., or maybe a little later than that. She got out of the car, and wandered around to see everyone. The number of people had grown significantly; in fact, the majority of them were Deb fans! But, she wandered around, took presents, flowers, pictures, stuffed toys, followed by the usual "Aaaah." She said she was sad to be leaving, and something else which I can't remember. After a while outside, she was hurried inside because she was going to do a press photo shoot with Craig. She announced she would be out in the front for it, at which point everyone ran around to the front of the building. At the front, time passed by (oh, actually, everyone really ran to Boots to buy more film!). Eventually Deb, Craig, and Deb's mother came out, and had photos taken. Then they disappeared again, only to reappear around the back for more photos. After that, Deb wandered around again to meet everyone, sign things, etc. despite her mother's apparent disapproval! She said that the matinee show was going to be good, since there were lots of practical jokes planned. So, I had to get a ticket for the matinee. Not an easy task, but I got one! The matinee turned out to be hilarious. Deb appeared in nearly every scene, which was quite impressive! It is incredibly hard to write everything down, but I'll opt for the best bits. In the bedroom scene, after Deb has disappeared out the room and Rizzo is singing "Look At Me I'm Sandra Dee," Deb appeared (as a ghost at the window). In the scene where Craig comes on to where Deb is cheerleading, Deb had decided to wear a "big ear," hence the line "what have you done to you ear?" took on a new meaning. In the drive-in movie scene, Craig had brought in a whoopee cushion, and spent the rest of the time telling Deb that she smelt! During the interval, Deb walked across the stage in her curlers. In "We Go Together," the cast told Eugene to keep singing. The list goes on and on, and I think it was one of those performances not to miss. Nothing much happened between the matinee and the evening. Everyone stood around and chatted, and waited until the evening. The evening performance, alas, was empty of practical jokes, but the performance had a brilliant atmosphere. At the end, instead of going off, Craig spent several moments trying to quiet down the theatre so that he could talk. Being "emotional," Craig proceeded to tell everyone that it was a sad day. He talked about the cast members who were leaving, and how it had been the best part of his professional life. All of the cast members who were leaving got flowers and gifts. Then at the end, a load of Deb fans rushed up to give Deb some more flowers. And that was that! Unfortunately, I can't convey the type of atmosphere on paper, but just ask anyone who went what it was like. After the show, I, along with most of the population of the U.K., went to the stage door to see Deb off. After a longer than usual wait, Deb arrived out (proceeded up to the car full of flowers, gifts, etc.) and did the usual (and alas) did a final tour of everyone to sign autographs and chat. I passed over the latest BtL of the time (BtL 6.2), and Glenn persuaded Debbie to sing a chorus of "Goodbye" to us (since I was too chicken!). Debbie obliged, which was lovely, so at last I got to hear her sing one of her own songs in this country. And then... I had to catch a train. I guess that ended an era over here. All I can say is, thanks Debbie for coming to England (please come and do a concert), and "hi" to everyone I met down in London, I hope we all keep in touch now! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= D.G.I.F. VOL. VI NO. 2 REVIEW =- Kimberley Kline - Bellingham, Washington (n9143165@henson.cc.wwu.edu) May 16, 1994 It's arrived! The latest D.G.I.F.! And I, for one, am _very_ pleased with it. If you haven't received _your_ copy, or if you aren't a member of D.G.I.F., allow me to tell you ALL about it! "Let's start at the very beginning..." -- THE COVER! This is a _really_ cute photo of our friend, Ms. Gibson! Her outfit is classic 50's. Deborah definitely would fit in were she to travel back in time to the days of Sock Hops and diners! As we turn the page of our D.G.I.F., we find Deb's handwritten letter to us. Some interesting information was passed on to us, complements of Deb's pen! While in London, Deborah reported that she had, "made some really great friends, met lots of friendly D.G.I.F. members, seen lots of sights, and even managed to fit in a philosophy class!" WOW, DEB! You really kept yourself busy! I'd love to know more about this philosophy class. Has it had an effect on her songwriting? How'd it feel to be back in school? Maybe I'll have to send those in to the Q&A department! But back to her letter, the material for the new album is coming along well, says Deb, and recording is scheduled to begin THIS month! (That's May for those of you, like my roommate, who are a bit behind in changing the calendar!) She says it'll be "traumatic" to leave the show, but she's looking forward to getting back to her music! Hey Deb, we're looking forward to it, too!!! On behalf of your fans, I'd like to say that we look forward to the promotional tour you mentioned in this letter! And while I'm here speaking for everyone; On behalf of your U.S.A. fans, "WELCOME HOME!!" The following page has pictures from "Win, Lose, or Draw" during "Grease Week." I must say, Deborah's hair looks GREAT! For those of you who are familiar with the cast of Grease, those pictured with Deborah are: Sally Ann Tripplet (Rizzo), Anna Symes (Deb's dresser), Richard Calkin (Sonny) & his rubber duckie, and the show's host, Shane Richie (Kenickie). And now onto "QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS!" You asked 'em, so Deb answered 'em! For space and time sake, I'm not going to list ALL of the questions and answers. There are four (4), yes, _four_ pages of questions and answers! I could be here all night! I'd miss my deadline! Therefore, I shall pick out some points of interest. First, the all important NEWS FLASH! Hey gang! Deb learned how to _cook_ in London! Congratulations, Deb! She says so herself that before London, she could "barely fry an egg!" For those of you who heard the ridiculous rumor that Deborah was on drugs (Give me a break! Who started this rumor? Was it a rumor? *I* never heard it.), she is not, nor has she ever, used drugs. In fact, even while onstage in the scene where Sandy tries a cigarette, Deb doesn't even inhale. Her way to make it look real is to hold her breath and suck in her cheeks. Good move Deb! Smoking a cigarette for each show would've been really gross and bad for your health! On the business front, the move from Atlantic to SBK was _Deborah's_ choice and "a very difficult one at that." She felt it was time for a fresh start and SBK seems to understand the direction Deborah would like to go creatively. Have your heard? Deb is writing songs for an animated film titled, "A Fairy's Tale." How did she get involved with this you (and Jason Enany) ask? Well, Deborah tells us that the writer had her in mind for the role of Aesha from the start! Sounds like this writer has good taste! He also felt her songwriting style would be appropriate. The film currently has independent backing and will be distributed through a major film studio once it is finished. Last, I'd like to conclude this portion with some interesting bits of Deb Trivia! * Deb is hooked on country! She enjoys Garth Brooks, Vince Gill, Trisha Yearwood, Tanya Tucker, Mary Chapin Carpenter... * If Deb could live on one food _only_, it would be chocolate covered lobster! (Maybe we should allow her _two_ foods. I'm not too sure just how good that would taste, but nice try, Deb!) Along with photos from Deb's sightseeing while overseas, Deb concludes this issue with a salute to the Cast of Grease, which includes a "Do You Remember...," a collage of photos, and the Rydell High Class Survey - Deborah tied for Most Intelligent, was one of four runners up for Best Personality, won Best Singer (why am I _not_ surprised?), was one of three second runners up for Most Likely to Succeed, tied for second runner up for Friendliest, and was the second runner up for Best Dressed. On the Just For Laughs front, Deb was voted "Most Likely to Rack up Frequent Flyer Miles" -- no kidding! Next we have two pages of those lucky folks who went to see Grease and MET Deborah. (Oh, to be so lucky... Once again, I meet Deb "Only in My Dreams.") As usual, we have people looking for pen pals. If you do not receive D.G.I.F., and would like a Deb Pen Pal, e-mail me and I will gladly give you more information on those seeking pen pals. I _highly_ recommend getting yourself one -- Deb pen pals are the BEST! Hey people! Guess what??!! There is a new poster available! For only $12 plus shipping and handling, you can own it! It's a great pic of Deb in one of her Grease outfits. If I can find $12.00, I'll get one for myself! Want more information? Write me! Sadly, we come to the end of the latest issue: the back cover. The back is a photo of Deb with several of the cast members of Grease. (It appears to have been a publicity photo, courtesy of Epic Records U.K.) With the end of the issue, comes the end of my review. Before I go, I must state my opinion (did you really think you would be able to avoid it?). I am very pleased with this issue. It has great _color_ pictures, a Q&A section double the size of the last issues, Grease pictures and information, and, most important of all, a letter from Deb telling us she's coming home! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= GOODBYE TO SANDRA DEE =- Chris Foote - London, England (shufoote@reading.ac.uk) April 10, 1994 When it was announced that Deb got the part in Grease, a nine month run seemed such a long time, but I suppose it had to come - Deb's last day. Well I, along with about thirty other Deb fans, were at The Dominion early Saturday morning. Deb arrived quite early herself, just after midday, as there was a press call with her and Craig to be held at the front of the theatre. I'm not so sure whether this was a good idea, because as soon as this was announced, everyone rushed around to the front. By the time Deb and Craig came out, a huge crowd had formed all pushing forward towards the theatre door. Deb's mother, Diane, was there and naturally looked very worried about the situation. To be fair, when asked, everyone did move back, and everything was kept under control. I was lucky enough to get tickets for both the matinee and evening shows. For the matinee I managed to get a return two minutes before the show, and unbelievably, it was a box seat. Apparently when Princess Sarah (Fergie) brought her children to the show, they sat in the same box and covered their ears throughout the whole show - I could see why it was VERY loud being right next to the speakers! Still, it was worth the deafening experience, as I had a great view, overlooking the stage and wings. In the other box, on the other side of the theatre, I could see some of Deb's family watching the show. Everything seemed to be going as usual, until "Those Magic Changes." I could see someone in a dark coat and a hat waiting in the wings. This seemed very strange, as nobody dressed like that should've been coming on. But when the screaming fans run forward to Doody (John Combe) this strange person came on too. It was only when they ran out I realized it was Deb. She was dressed as a pressman and was taking notes of The T-Birds! Further on into the show, after Sandy leaves Marty's bedroom to get her ear pierced, she peeked her head through the bedroom window! After "Greased Lightnin'," when Sandy is trying out for the Cheerleaders, Deb sneaked a huge rubber ear on with ear. So when Danny asks Sandy, "What's happened to your ear?" (after the ear piercing), Deb stuck this huge ear on, which seemed to completely throw Craig. Towards the end of the interval, after the safety curtain had been raised, Deb ran across the stage, looking at her watch, as if she was late. The next scene that had a bit "extra" was during the drive-in. As Sandy edged forward in the car when Danny starts getting familiar, Deb sat on a whoopee cushion. I'm not sure whether Craig knew about this, but he coped with it very well, and even managed to fit it into the proceeding song "Sandy," by singing, "Sandy, my darlin' you hurt me real bad, and I thought the smell would pass, but I guess I'm helpless without you..." Deb's final new addition to the show was when she sang "Look At Me I'm Sandra Dee" (the reprise). As she held the high note of the line, "Goodbye to Sandra Dee," she turned around, lifted up her skirt revealing a message on her underskirt saying "Goodbye Grease." After that eventful show, we got our places for the final show. Our group had got standing places at the back of the theatre, so we could sing and dance along with the show for the final time. The atmosphere that night was brilliant, and it was the first time I'd ever seen a complete standing ovation. At the end of the show, Craig announced that it was a very special day for Grease, as they were losing some of the "family." It was at this point his voice broke down and started to cry. By now it was getting far too emotional and both myself and Mike (he's going to kill me for telling everyone this) started to cry too (who said men aren't emotional?). Along with Deb, it was the last show for Charlotte Avery (Marty), John Combe (Doody), Aidan Treays (Eugene) and Derek Cullen (Ricky). Craig added they had made it the best professional nine months of his life, and finished by asking everyone to give them three cheers. Apart from the seemingly hundreds of flowers given by fans, Deb was presented with a huge bunch of flowers on behalf the cast, at which point I think Deb started to cry as well. As soon as the cast left the stage, we rushed round to the back of the theatre and waited for Deb to come out. Just after eleven o'clock, Deb came out to meet the masses of people that had waited for her. As she went round collecting presents from everyone, she sang a few verses from "Goodbye." Finally, she got into the car, and Dave drove her off for the last time. Looking back, it's been an eventful nine months; seeing Deb perform live for the first time, presenting Deb with her birthday cake (O.K., so it was a doughnut - but it did have candles!), Tania screaming out, "You Go Girl" during "Hopelessly Devoted To You" (I've never cringed so much in my life), dressing up a Christmas tree for Deb outside the theatre during one of the coldest and windy days of winter, running around London with a video camera filming the oddest of locations for Deb's leaving present, Mike and Tania performing "It's Raining On Prom Night" at the back of The Dominion for the same video, and meeting so many other Debbie fans from both England and abroad. Yep, things are gonna seem pretty quiet now Deb's gone! So Deb, if you get to read this, thanks for putting up with us and come back soon (see, you DO have fans over here!). And on behalf of Tania, Anne, Trudi, Mike, Anna and myself a final "YOU GO GIRL!" =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= DEBWATCH =- Here's a list of significant television appearances shown since the last issue of BtL. 04-11-94 : BIG BREAKFAST (CH. 4, U.K.) Deb appeared on this British morning show, and was generally filling in by doing little things such as helping with the phone-in competition. She sang a little bit of "You're The One That I Want" when asked what she thought of their "hunk of the morning." Thanks to Dominic Thomas (d.thomas01@ic.ac.uk) for the information. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -= CLOSING REMARKS =- According to Dominic Thomas (d.thomas01@ic.ac.uk) and Khurrum Sair (khs@doc.ic.ac.uk) who talked to Deb after her last performance in Grease. "A Fairy's Tale" definitely will not be out in September of this year, as stated in the last issue of BtL. Deb said they will not begin recording it until November. Also, according to Debbie, there are no plans for a U.S. tour. According to Jamie Syrett (jis@castle.edinburgh.ac.uk), a UK tour has been unofficially announced to ticket agencies for late this year. However, no dates or venues have been announced yet. Deb was shown in the audience near the beginning of "Late Night With Conan O'Brien," a late night talk show, on May 14th. Conan pointed her out saying that she is a fan of the show. Debbie performed at a charity show inside St. Paul's Cathedral on the night of May 25th. The concert is being held to aid the Cathedral Restoration Fund. Many West End theatre stars, including Deb, were scheduled to perform songs by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Thanks to Dominic Thomas (d.thomas01@ic.ac.uk) and Glenn Stein (stein_gs@jhunix.hcf.jhu.edu) for the recent information. Due to the fact that Deborah has finished her run in Grease and is now working on a new album, there will be ample room in BtL for retrospective articles about Grease. For those of you who were lucky enough to see Grease, you are encouraged to write a review and about your experience of seeing the show. For those of you who went to the Dominion Theatre frequently over Deborah's nine months in the show, you are welcome to write a summary of the past year. The next issue of BtL will be released in early to mid-summer.