I'm not putting my responses in spoiler boxes because, well, they're not, but please be aware that you risk having the stories spoiled for you if you read the hidden text in this thread.
[spoiler]So who did they get to play Barnabas on the audio tapes?? I agree, rather against DS canon!![/spoiler]
Miranda, iif you listen to the first CD, you'll find that there is nothing in there that is against DS canon.
[spoiler]I suggest that those of us who are mainly JF fans rather than of the show in general not buy the audio tapes[/spoiler]
You're entitled to feel as you do about them, but I think it's a mistake to suggest that any group of fans not buy the audio CDs. Oh, where to begin?
First off, if the primary attraction that DS holds for you is Jonathan Frid, then yes, his absence could detract from your enjoyment of the stories. But I know for a fact that you're a huge Angelique fan, so I would bet the stories will hold some appeal for you.
Secondly, the topic about the WB pilot is by far the most visited topic on these Forums. Whether we loved or hated the idea, or had an opinion that fell somewhere in between, we were hungry for news about a possible new DS. And unless it's one of the best kept secrets in fandom, there are no plans to film a new DS. But we have these audio CDs that offer what fans have been clamoring for-- new stories (not rehashes!) with some of the original cast that are well-written and well-acted. They make use of original music, are presented as episodes with voiceovers, and they respect the show's history. An individual with a basic knowledge of DS can follow them, yet a die-hard fan can find many events within the story that will feel comfortably familiar. Quentin is still droll, Maggie is still traumatized, Willie is still anxious, and Angelique is still unpredictable!
So I'm in the camp that asks fans to give the CDs a try before making pronouncements about them and to support the project if possible.
--I myself am very picky about the DS stuff I will buy.....
I think you
should be picky. But the quality of this is good and it's professional and sanctioned, and therefore I think it is so worth it.