Monday, Feb. 09, 1998

Broadway

By Richard Zoglin/New York

The Capeman, PAUL SIMON's new musical about a New York City gang killing in the 1950s, had a long, troubled road to Broadway, and its troubles didn't end on opening night. Some last-minute doctoring helped a bit (especially in the doo-wop-flavored first act), but the show never comes to life onstage, and it was drubbed by critics. Yet its backers are vowing to keep the show running at least until the Tony nominations in May. "We're obviously disappointed," said DAN KLORES, one of the producers. "But we're going to fight." A determined group--or still crazy after all these jeers.

--By Richard Zoglin/New York