The show received almost universally negative reviews. In January 2001, in response to falling ticket sales, producers brought in Rosie O'Donnell to replace Shiner as the Cat in the Hat for a month-long engagement. The move was criticized as stunt casting, but was successful at temporarily boosting ticket sales. In March, young pop star Aaron Carter and former Olympic gymnast Cathy Rigby were cast for short engagements. Due to poor box office, the show closed on May 20, 2001 after 198 performances. Its ultimate financial losses were estimated at $11 million, making it one of the worst financial flops in Broadway history.