People: Dec. 22, 1986

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Opening in Dallas to bad reviews is hardly what most theatrical producers would consider an auspicious beginning. But it turned out to be just that in the case of Legends, starring Mary Martin and Carol Channing as a pair of feuding veteran stage actresses. Without benefit of critical acclaim or a stint on the Great White Way, the comedy by Playwright James Kirkwood (A Chorus Line) has grossed nearly $10 million since starting its 23-city run last January. This January the stars will end their touring in Palm Beach. "I was 73 the other day," says Martin. "My body doesn't have the resilience. People think it does because that's all they see. But the next day . . ." Channing, 63, who first met Martin when both were working on Broadway in the '40s, will also bow out. "I wouldn't consider doing it without Mary. The whole idea was doing it together." The legends may be leaving, but Legends will go on, perhaps even to Broadway in the spring. Alexis Smith is among those being considered for the task of following one of the ultimate hard acts to follow.