The Varley Factor: Ladies And Gentleman, The 'Tweeple Threat'

Welcome to The Varley Factor, BroadwayWorld.com's newest ongoing blog series from Creative Director, Eddie Varley.  Look for 'The Factor' to bring you Varley's unique brand of commentary on all things theatrical... Get ready Broadway!

When I think of the word "triple threat" I think of Donna McKechnie, Tony Award winner for the original landmark production of Broadway's A CHORUS LINE. McKechnie danced her way into theatre history with her trailblazing turn as Cassie in the original show and she is the true definition of a performer who does it all. 

There are plenty of current day talents who wear the "triple threat" badge with honor and pride. I can easily call Michelle Kittrell and Spencer Liff "triple threats", because they are fairly electric when performing and your eyes cannot stay off them.

But, they are a dying breed and there is a new kind of performer that is laying claim to the Great White Way, a new level of talent and they will not be denied, it is of course, "The Tweeple Threat."

Sure, anybody can dance, sing and act like a Broadway musical theatre legend, but only that very select theatrical animal can "tweet" while they are doing it! Pre-show jitters? Who has time in the ultra connected Broadway of today?!

A true "Tweeple Threat" can post an update on Facebook, send an important message about that nasty BFF to Twitter and find a spare second to upload that "original tune" onto their still active MySpace page all in less time than it takes the stage manager to announce the 5 minute call.

I know this because I overheard a conversation the other night that confirmed it to be true, a well known "up n' comer" was complaining about their creaky revival...I mean, well attended audience favorite - you see the show dearhearts, was getting in the way of this chatty performers social networking time.

Here's the exchange:

TT1: Hey, I'm so tired, I had to do the show tonight.

TT2: Aw Miss Honey, poor you.

TT1: I'll feel better after my Cosmo, but I have to let "Chaps" know I'm here, we had three swings on tonight, I had to pick up the slack.

TT2: I know, I read your updates...haha.

TT1: Right? I BARELY had time to tweet, I get so mad when I can't check on things during the show, I am so behind on my Twitter today.

Whats a "Tweeple Threat" to do?

Call in sick! All the kids are doin' it!