Illya Darling
Attendance was fueled by the star wattage provided by Melina Mercouri, who was nominated for a Tony Award, in the title role.[2] Other cast members included Orson Bean as Homer Thrace, Nikos Kourkoulos (who was also nominated for a Tony) in his Broadway debut as Tonio, and Hal Linden as No Face.With no set rates, no pimp, and an inclination to sleep only with men she likes, she differs dramatically from the other local ladies-of-the-evening.Attracted by Illya's physical charms, he decides to teach her about the classics and to help her become a cultured lady, while she in turn introduces him to sensual pleasures.Tuesday night's arrival at the Mark Hellinger Theatre lacks solid, over-all appeal, so the international reputation of Miss Mercouri as a movie star with a tremendous sex image and a volatile acting style is really on the line ... there is exuberance in the several dance numbers, the score has some rousing numbers and there are excellent portrayals in top roles.