#61: Evita, exploring diva energy with the divine Melissa Chase

Send us Fan Mail

Don't cry for me, Chasing Phantom fans! I have brought back yet another one of your favorite guests, the diva-tastic Melissa Chase, host of the lifestyle television show, "Showcase." We discuss the diva-centric "Evita," a show solidly in Ms. Chase's wheelhouse thanks to her love of all things Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Don't expect a lot of dissecting of historical accuracy here; I mean, we gloss by that so quickly I even mispronounce Argentina and "Argentinia" in the episode! What we do dig into, though, is the musical legacy of this show, one that has always involved an explicit connection to popular music. From its beginning as a concept album, pop stars and rock musicians have played important roles in the development and success of this show.

And, of course, we can't help but spend a fair amount of time discussing Madonna's intense interest in this show and her commitment to appearing in the movie adaptation. Melissa has a fresh perspective that I loved talking through.

Please check out my website, ChasingPhantom.net, for more information and links to related video clips.