Flower Power

Theyre sent flowers as often as the rest of us receive Viagra e-mail promotions. With the help of our pro Gaige Clark, owner of Manhattans Spruce floral boutique, we put three of our favorite Broadway stars skills to the test by asking them to arrange the exact same selection of flowers. The raw materials: Early fall is a fantastic time for flowers, so I sent them each some exciting seasonal varieties, says Clark. Dahlias -- grande dames that can stand alone but also bring everything together in an arrangement -- plus Matthiolas, a fluffy favorite that smells like cinnamon, and of course some dramatic, stately calla lilies for a hint of glamour. Kerry Butler Clio/Kara, Xanadu I had to steal this skate from our opening-night party! I couldnt exactly use one that Im skating with in the show tonight. Pros report: My favorite! So Boogie Nights, and theres something about her that gives this a very Bettie Page, 50s pinup feel. I love, love, love it! Laura Bell Bundy Elle, Legally Blonde Im completely addicted to Red Bull! We even worked it into the show because it keeps me going in the show. They always tell you to put a little Sprite in a vase to keep flowers fresh for longer, so well see how this goes... The handbag is from my own line, Schmancy Purses. The look is me trying to be more Jackie, less Marilyn. Pros report: Very Coco Chanel, making a pocketbook full of posies. Innovative and charismatic. Michael Berresse Zach, A Chorus line I spent all afternoon in the flower district finding little bud vases to put together a chorus line of flowers and my particular inspiration is a line from the show: But youre special. No, were all special. Pros report: The Einstein of the group, Michael approached his arrangement like a science project in a style thats bordering on sacred geometry, says Clark. Linear, calculated, and exacting.