John Gay: The Beggar's Opera Review

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John Gay: The Beggar's Opera ReviewBenjamin Britten's "realisation" of John Gay's enduring ballad opera, made for the newly formed English Opera Group, had its premiere on 24 May 1948; this remarkable CD presents a substantial portion of a broadcast of 22 September in the same year, apparently with the "1st cast" intact. So even if it were not a wonderful performance - which it is - it would be of tremendous historical significance.
The neglected step-child among Britten's operas, in his hands "The Beggar's Opera" really becomes an opera, rather than a play with interpolated popular songs of the early 18th century. The harmonic and orchestral invention is as strong as in the contemporaneous "Rape of Lucretia" and "Albert Herring," and the way Britten links long stretches made up of short tunes is (no surprise) ingenious and often brilliant. Unlike the discreet Britten/Imogen Holst edition of Purcell's "Dido and Aeneas," this isn't just an "arrangement," but a provocative and enjoyable modern re-imagining that is closer in spirit to Brecht & Weill ("Threepenny Opera") than to Frederick Austin's prettily genteel, and famously successful, 1920 version of Gay.
The only complete recording of the Britten came in 1993 (Argo), with Steuart Bedford leading an excellent orchestra and an experienced cast of singer-actors - Philip Langridge outstanding as Macheath. Some questionable dialogue choices aside - rather too much rewriting for my taste - it's an enjoyable 2 CD set in modern sound that lets us hear Britten's fantastic instrumental invention (for 12 players) in all its glory.
But in some ways, both musical & dramatic, this 1948 broadcast makes a stronger case for Britten's work. Although it's a studio performance, not a stage one - an advantage it terms of the sound - the singers have all had several months' experience of touring the show, and give generally lively, assured and even vivid performances, notably Peter Pears (Macheath) & Otakar Kraus (Lockit); Nancy Evans (Polly) is especially affecting in the later, anguished portions of her role. Then, too, it's possible to catch glimpses of original stage director Tyrone Guthrie's influence, especially in the active vocal participation of the "audience" of beggars. Above all, there's the composer leading a superb orchestra in an ideal reading: tempi beautifully chosen, flexible but not indulgent for the singers, and with genuine rhythmic vitality.
This studio version is abridged: musically only slightly - 7 songs and 1 "melodrama" are gone - and verbally a great deal, with narration substituting for dialogue in many places. Also, much (not all) of the dialogue appears to have been handed over to a team of actors - all of Polly, Lucy & Macheath's lines, unless my ears deceive me - and tho the "matching" is done pretty well, it means this can only be a partial record of the singers' performances & of Guthrie's work (his most provocative innovation, making the Beggar/"author" of the piece a woman, has been jettisoned entirely). Also, there are a few missing notes here and there, especially at the start of numbers (including the Overture), and the dialogue has been further shortened in order to fit it all onto one CD, making for some abrupt jumps into numbers. (By the way, the booklet gets the Act One/Two division wrong; Britten's Act One incorporates the "tavern" scene at the start of Gay's Two.) On the other hand, after a slightly rough start, the sound settles down into something quite listenable, with the solo voices excellently present and clear.
So let's count our blessings & be glad this has been preserved for all to hear: essential for Britten fans, "Beggar's Opera" fans, and quite possibly of great interest to others.John Gay: The Beggar's Opera Overview

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Dracula - Entre l'amour et la mort Review

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Dracula - Entre l'amour et la mort ReviewI have not yet gotten the DVD (which is to become available in January or February 2008), but I have seen the musical 23 times.
I love the music composed by Roger Tabra (lyrics) and Simon Leclerc (music). The performers and their performances are all wonderful! Admittedly, I am a huge Bruno Pelletier fan and he was my initial draw to the project, but have since appreciated the others in the cast as well.
Bruno IS Dracula and his incandescent performance is a thing of beauty. His voice is strong. Sylvain Cossette as Jonathan Harker has one of the most haunting pieces to sing in "Mina". Andree Watters as Mina makes a splendid debut. The other novice is Daniel Boucher as Renfield and definitely a star is born in his case. The cast is rounded out by veterans Pierre Flynn (a fantastic Van Helsing), Gabrielle Destroismaisons (Lucy), Louis Gagne (Grand Lui - the narrator), Elyzabeth Diaga, Brigitte Marchand and Rita Tabbakh (the three vampiresses), background singers Claude Pineault, Julie Dassylva and Martin Giroux. In addition two musicians play live: Dan Mongrain (guitar) and Jean-Francois Groulx (keyboards).
I'm definitely looking forward to adding this DVD to my collection to enjoy for years to come!
Addition:
Now that the DVD has been released and I have obtained mine, I can tell you it is simply breathtaking! As the musical is soon to embark on a tour of Asia and Europe, it is a special treat to have it preserved with its splendid original cast.
(One minor note: Despite what this listing says, there aren't any subtitles, but that should not lessen anyone's enjoyment of this incredible spectacular.)
More:
Dracula Entre l'amour et la mort is very much still a "work in progress". It has changed quite a bit from its debut in Montreal at the St-Denis January 31, 2006. Songs and dialogue have been changed, deleted, added, and moved around. The show that was seen in Lyon, France this year was a little different still. For instance, the setting for the song "Entre l'amour et la mort" is totally different on the DVD than it was originally, and the song "Urgence" has been moved from the first act to the second, replacing "Rester debout" (also sung by Andree Watters).
I love all incarnations of the show, and I watch the DVD incessantly! I hope someday the United States will get with the program and bring the show here in its English form. That would be waaaay cool!Dracula - Entre l'amour et la mort Overview

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The Producers (2005 Movie Soundtrack) Review

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The Producers (2005 Movie Soundtrack) ReviewAlthough the movie may have been less than the stellar hit that was hoped for, the album carries the day. It contains almost all of the music heard on the movie, with some dialogue exceptions, and even includes a bonus track not included in the movie. By far my favorite is the title credit version of "Guten Tag Hap-Clap."
The cast is also wonderful. Not only do you hear the original Broadway stars Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick in their original roles, you also get Will Ferrel playing the hillarious role of Franz Liebkind but also Uma Thurman as the dazzling Ulla flaunting (and belting) all the way. All in all, a great buy, and well worth the add to the library!The Producers (2005 Movie Soundtrack) OverviewProducers [2005 Soundtrack]Original Soundtrack Label: Sony Release Date: 11/22/2005 1 The Producers, musical play~Overture - :432 The Producers, musical play~Opening Night - 1:463 The Producers, musical play~We Can Do It - 3:574 The Producers, musical play~I Wanna Be A Producer - 6:145 The Producers, musical play~Der Guten Tag Hop-Clop - 1:576 The Producers, musical play~Keep It Gay - 5:537 The Producers, musical play~When You Got It, Flaunt It - 3:118 The Producers, musical play~Along Came Bialy - 3:529 The Producers, musical play~That Face - 4:1610 The Producers, musical play~Haben Sie Gehürt Das Deutsche Band? - 1:1911 The Producers, musical play~You Never Say Good Luck On Opening Night - 1:3412 The Producers, musical play~Springtime For Hitler - Part 1 - 3:4013 The Producers, musical play~Heil Myself - :5214 The Producers, musical play~Springtime For Hitler - Part 2 - 3:0115 The Producers, musical play~You'll Find Your Happiness In Rio - 1:1016 The Producers, musical play~Betrayed - 4:2617 The Producers, musical play~Til Him - 3:1018 The Producers, musical play~Prisoners Of Love (Broadway) - 2:1619 The Producers, musical play~Prisoners Of Love (Leo And Max) - 1:2720 The Producers, musical play~There's Nothing Like A Show On Broadway - 3:4221 The Producers, musical play~The Hop-Clop Goes On - 3:3422 The Producers, musical play~Goodbye! - :3723 The Producers, musical play~The King Of Broadway (Bonus Track) - 4:38

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Alice Faye Collection 2 (Rose of Washington Square/Hollywood Cavalcade/The Great American Broadcast/Hello, Frisco, Hello/Four Jills in a Jeep) (Full Chk Gift) (2008) Review

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Alice Faye Collection 2 (Rose of Washington Square/Hollywood Cavalcade/The Great American Broadcast/Hello, Frisco, Hello/Four Jills in a Jeep) (Full Chk Gift) (2008) ReviewThe availability of a second collection of films of the charming Alice Faye is welcome. It seems that a new generation are discovering this quality performer and actress and this DVD collection is a worthy valentine to her legacy. Faye's films tended to follow a proven box office formula. She was quoted in later life as drily stating that they merely rotated her leading men as she constantly remade the same story. These films certainly support that view as all the cliches are on view, each with their own twist.
- first off is the 1939 "Rose of Washington Square". This is a dramatic musical with a more gutsy part for Faye than usual and an excellent role for matinee idol Tyrone Power as a heel. The story was based on the life of "Funny Girl" Fanny Brice who sued the studio for plagiarism. Al Jolson, as Faye's vaudeville buddy, and Faye sing superbly. The film was severely edited before release and many of the cut scenes survive, some of which have been included here.
- next, also released in 1939, is the technicolour romantic comedy "Hollywood Cavalcade". This is a nostalgic look at the coming of talkies, a Reader's Digest potted history of Hollywood, with Faye's role based loosely on, among others, Mabel Normand, a silent screen comedian, and Don Ameche on Mack Sennett, a silent comedy director. The film is very well made with soft colouring and excellent performances by the leads but the director Irving Cummings, while meticulous, always directed at a plod. The best scenes are the Keystone Cop comedy recreations, not directed by Cummings, before the films descends into the usual cliches with Faye neglected by her leading man and wearing her heart on her sleeve.
- in 1941, "The Great American Broadcast" adhered rigidly to the girl meets boy, girl loses boy, girl reunites with boy formula, this time set around the advent of radio. The plot is a rehash of "Alexander's Ragtime Band" stirred in with "Tin Pan Alley" with John Payne and Jack Oakie re-appearing from the latter film. While it may be flawed history, it is a mighty entertaining film. Faye's rendition of the war time Harry Warren lament "Where you are", backed by the Ink Spots, is memorable and the Nicholas Brothers are in there too, performing a breathtaking dance as usual.
- in 1943, "Hello Frisco Hello", one of Faye's best remembered films, was released. A period musical rich in familiar and, in this case, particularly tiresome plot cliches, it benefits from spectacular colour, great production values, superb sound and Faye herself, slim, radiant, warm and sympathetic. This is the film in which she mesmerised the audience with her signature tune "You'll Never Know", but there are other goodies like "The Grizzly Bear" and "Pick on me". John Payne and Jack Oakie are with her for the third time, the former as a very stiff and humorless leading man and the latter for some hokey overacted comedy.
- the inclusion in the set of the lousy war time propaganda film "Four Jills in a Jeep" is hard to fathom, unless you view it as a sort of bonus. This boring musical traces the factual trip by 4 second rate stars to entertain the boys at the front. Most of the musical numbers are dull with wooden Dick Haymes, loud Martha Raye and voluptuous Carole Landis, among others. One highlight is the athletic dancing of Mitzi Mayfair. Faye makes a guest appearance reprising "You'll Never Know". She seems reserved.
With all the entertaining films available to include in the package, "Four Jills in Jeep" is a rotten choice. It also should be pointed out that "Hollywood Cavalcade" is not a musical, given that this set is another of Fox's "Marquee Musicals". The film certainly has the feel of one with a delightful soundtrack of old favourites supporting the melodrama but Faye does not sing.
The set has been beautifully packaged. All of the prints have been restored and are in great condition and the 2 technicolour prints are outstanding. Every film has its own documentary, not only focusing on Faye and her colleagues but on the historical aspects of the yarns - Fanny Brice for "Rose", the advent of radio for "Broadcast", the history of Hollywood for "Cavalcade" and USO tours for "Jills". Each of the films with Faye as the lead hit a bullseye at the box office. "Frisco" has a charming featurette on Faye herself and her daughter Alice appears, as well as Michael Feinstein and Hugh Hefner among others.
All the usual marketing material is included such as theatrical trailers, on set stills and advertising. In fact my only complaint is that Faye's exquisite rendition of "I'll see you in my dreams" is not among the deleted numbers from "Rose". A colourful booklet comes in the box, devoting 2 pages of anecdotes and background information to each film. This nicely complements the featurettes on each DVD. Lastly, "Rose", "Jills" and "Frisco" have audio only tracks. You can view the films with the original studio recordings matched carefully to what is on the screen without dialogue interruption etc - a very neat feature.
The DVD set is excellent value and with the documentaries, the modern viewer will begin to understand just what an important star Alice Faye was and that her contribution to American pop music was huge in her heyday.Alice Faye Collection 2 (Rose of Washington Square/Hollywood Cavalcade/The Great American Broadcast/Hello, Frisco, Hello/Four Jills in a Jeep) (Full Chk Gift) (2008) OverviewDisc 1: The Great American Broadcast Disc 2: Four Jills in a Jeep Disc 3: Rose of Washington Square Disc 4: Hollywood Cavalcade Disc 5: Hello, Frisco, Hello

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Blast: An Explosive Musical Celebration Review

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Blast: An Explosive Musical Celebration ReviewBlast! is Bill Cook's incredible effort to bring drum corps to the stage. Blast! originated as the Star Of Indiana Drum and Bugle Corps, which competed from 1985 to 1993. Today, the show is a smaller, stage-friendly adaptation with the same energy as its large football-field predecessor.
While the music is wonderful and moving, you really need to see the performers to fully appreciate their work. The CD is a studio recording, while the video is a live recording of their premiere show in London.
The show is about 90 minutes long, and the CD leaves out a few of the more visual performances, including 'Battery Battle' (a drum soloist feature, and 'Tangerinamadige' (a digederoo feature). These pieces are especially intended for live performance.
Blast! is starting a Broadway run in April with touring performances planned. It is a striking production and should not be missed if you have the chance to see it live.Blast: An Explosive Musical Celebration Overview

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Sophisticated Ladies (2005) Review

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Sophisticated Ladies (2005) ReviewTHIS VIDEO JUST TAKES MY BREATH AWAY I LOVE THIS VIDEO I WAS LUCKY TO GET IT ON DVD FOR A VERY LOW PRICE. THIS IS A TRULY MUST HAVE FOR ANYONE WHO LIKES BROADWAY MUSICALS I LOVE THIS VIDEO THE LATE GREAT MULTITALENTED SILKY SULTRY VOICE MS. PHYLLIS HYMAN PERFORMS SHE SING BEAUTIFULLY AND SHE LOOKS GLARMOUROUS. PAULA KELLY IS ON HERE SHE DOES A FANTASTIC JOB. EVERYONE ON THIS VIDEO DOES A FANTASTIC JOB. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS TO ANYONE WHO LIKES BROADWAY MUSICALS AND IT IS A TRIBUTE TO DUKE ELLINGTON. THIS IS A SAVVY, AND SOPHISTICATED MUSICAL YOU ARE IN FOR A TREAT!!!!!
BRAVO! BRAVO!Sophisticated Ladies (2005) Overview

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Cabaret: The New Broadway Cast Recording (1998 Broadway Revival) Review

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Cabaret: The New Broadway Cast Recording (1998 Broadway Revival) ReviewThe current Broadway revival of Kander and Ebb's 1966 musical CABARET is not entirely faithful to the original production. Some changes are based on Bob Fosse's 1972 film version, while others date from more recent revivals. Gone are the songs: "Meeskite", "Why Should I Wake Up?" and "The Telephone Song" and the film's "Money Money" has replaced the original show's "Money Song" - but we gain from the addition of "Mein Herr" and "Maybe This Time" from the film score, and "I Don't Care Much" cut from the original show during previews.
Natasha Richardson handles Sally's songs well - but not too well: You never lose sight of the fact that Sally is a second rate singer in a tacky Cabaret. John Benjamin Hickey isn't given a lot to do on the recording: Aside from a few lines of dialogue he shares but one duet with Ms.Richardson. Pity, as he seems to exhibit a fine singing voice.
The real star of the disc is Tony winner Alan Cumming as the Emcee: Comic and terrifying all at once. While Joel Grey presented a leering Emcee, Cumming is much darker: more decadent - Listen to him relish the word "beautiful" not once but three times in a row during the opening number..
Lotte Lenya brought such depth to the characterization of Frau Schneider, that others have paled in her wake, but Mary Louise Wilson gives the character a quiet dignity and resists any temptation to mimic her celebrated predecessor.
RCA Victor has again done an outstanding cast recording capturing the look and sound of one of Broadway's biggest hits. The accompanying booklet offers several color shots of the production and all the lyrics - but, unfortunately, no synopsis to provide the uninitiated with any kind of story link. It's the only flaw in an otherwise first rate package.
Columbia's classic original cast album (recently reissued on CD by Sony in their Columbia Broadway series) remains definitive - but this new darker more abr! asive production has yielder a very fine CD that crackles with theatrical excitement.Cabaret: The New Broadway Cast Recording (1998 Broadway Revival) Overview

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Peter Pan: Original Broadway Cast Recording (1954 New York Cast) Review

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Peter Pan: Original Broadway Cast Recording (1954 New York Cast) ReviewAs I played 1st trumpet in the Broadway production of PETER PAN as well as for this original cast recording, I hope the show is appreciated for the melodies and the story line. During the run of the show on Broadway, I was always amazed how the children would cheer and support Tinker Bell especially when Mary (Peter) would ask the children if they believe in Tinker Bell. They would shout yes and applaud. The show captured their imagination and of course Mary Martin and Cyril Richard were unbeatable as Peter Pan and Captain Hook. Enjoy the show and long live the energy and enthusiasm of PETER PAN.Peter Pan: Original Broadway Cast Recording (1954 New York Cast) Overview

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Urinetown (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast) Review

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Urinetown (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast) ReviewIt's been a long time since a show has had as memorable a score as Urinetown. Having seen the off- Broadway show twice I can say that the recording has preserved the fun and sprit of the show and performances. The cast headed by John Cullum is steller, every member is perfect and gives a standout performance. Mark Hollman and Greg Kotis must be given standing ovations for their score. You really leave the the theatre humming the score! Don't let the title turn you off - nothing is that offensive or crude -neither is the musical a one joke show overdone to death, it's a clever mix of Threepenny Opera meets The Cradle Will Rock with a generous helping of Broadway self parody thrown in for good measure. You would die with laughter if you only saw the number "Snuff that Girl" let alone the whole show. Hats off also to the orchestrator and the 5 musicians who sound like a full pit orchestra. If you get to New York after the show opens on Broadway RUN and get a ticket- but for now get the CD and start to relish a truly original, funny, tuneful, well sung and performed rare gem of a show.Urinetown (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast) Overview

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South Pacific: In Concert From Carnegie Hall (2006) Review

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South Pacific: In Concert From Carnegie Hall (2006) ReviewWhat superlatives are left to describe this concert? This is a truly exhilirating, incandescent performance filled with an all too rare quality, passion. The New York Times review described it best as "near complete rapture." For those who belittle the idea of Reba McEntire in a Broadway musical, take a look at this first before passing unjustified comments. It doesn't matter if she's a country singer, an opera singer or a rap singer, or if she is older than what Nellie Forbush should be. Anyone who can perform with this level of passion and conviction deserves unstinting praise. What a pity it was a one-night only performance. At least we have this DVD as a permanent keepsake. Brian Stokes Mitchell is in equally fine form as Emile de Becque, the French plantation owner, who deservedly brings the house down (and the concert itself to an almost minute-long standstill) with his moving rendition of "This Nearly Was Mine." It may only be a concert performance, without costumes or sets, but it puts many fully staged musicals to shame. All the supporting cast are equally commendable. My one tiny criticism is that the voice coach should have taught the children to sing "Dites Moi" with a more "neutral" accent. The children are supposed to be French Polynesian, children of "a cultured Frenchman." However, they sound more American than Nellie Forbush.
The picture quality on this DVD is absolutely gorgeous. When you consider that it was practically a last minute decision to film the concert at all, the camera crew, sound crew and all the technicians involved did a truly remarkable job. One of the finest live performance recordings I've had the pleasure to watch. The picture is presented in its original 1.78:1 widescreen (enhanced for widescreen TV) with razor sharp images, vibrant, natural colors & perfect black levels. Two soundtracks are provided, one in 2.0 Dolby Stereo and the other in 5.1 Dolby Surround. Rich, sumptuous sound throughout. This is a performace to treasure for years to come. Already I've watched it through thrice, two occasions back-to-back. It always has me singing and whistling along from start to finish. Guaranteed to raise a smile on even the dreariest day. A deliriously joyful DVD. There are no extras but I don't begrudge the lack one bit. This will be my favorite DVD for many months to come.South Pacific: In Concert From Carnegie Hall (2006) OverviewBroadway, like everyone, loves Reba McEntire. The redheaded Oklahoma firebrand took on the one-night-only concert role of Nellie Forbush on June 9, 2005-the role Mary Martin immortalized in the 1949 Rodgers & Hammerstein classic South Pacific-and the rialto's toughest critics, led by The New York Times' Ben Brantley, instantly surrendered. "Open-voiced and open-faced, she was born to play Nellie," Brantley wrote of the Carnegie Hall benefit performance, adding that the entire production was performed "in a state of nearly unconditional rapture. It was one of those nights when cynicism didn't stand a chance." Happily that enchanted evening can be shared with fans everywhere when "SOUTH PACIFIC" IN CONCERT FROM CARNEGIE HALL comes to DVD. Completing the luxury casting are Broadway and Hollywood icons Brian Stokes Mitchell and Alec Baldwin, as, respectively, French planter Emile de Becque and wise guy sailor Luther Billis. The performance also aired on Thirteen/WNE! T New York's GREAT PERFORMANCES on PBS in April/May.

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Cabaret: Original Soundtrack Recording (1972 Film) Review

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Cabaret: Original Soundtrack Recording (1972 Film) Review~
~ - ~ For the most complete set of songs from Cabaret, I recommend the 1998 Broadway version. But for the most memorable performances, this Movie version with Joel Grey and Liza Minelli is a winner.
~
~ - ~ However, the one thing you will miss most in any other version of Cabaret is Liza Minelli belting out the title song, and even more importantly, her rendition of "Maybe this time". I've seen the show twice, and have 3 different sound tracks, but no one anywhere can sing these two songs like her. Another bonus is Liza Minelli and Joel Grey singing "Money, Money, Money".
~ - ~ This version, while it has fewer songs, (and some lyrics were cut), is remarkable for the quality of the singing. It is especially good if you've seen the movie. Then such numbers as "Tomorrow Belongs to Me" will really carry an emotional impact.
~
~ - ~ Overall, not the most complete collection of songs from Cabaret. But I have to give it 5 stars because I keep this tape in my car along with the Broadway version, just so I can hear Liza sing "maybe this time I'll win..." one more time.Cabaret: Original Soundtrack Recording (1972 Film) Overview

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Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast) Review

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Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast) ReviewI saw this on Broadway without having heard this recording. In this particular case I'm glad I didn't as my experience of total shock and surprise and wonderment may somehow have been diminished. As I sat in my seat at The Eugene O'Neill Theatre I was held spellbound by the energy, talent and beauty of this cast (which features multiple Tony winner Stephen Spinella). However, as great as the cast is (and they are indeed great), the stars of the night were director Michael Mayer, choreographer Bill Jones and the composing team of Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater.

A teenage angst musical set in Germany circa 1890 and featuring a rock n roll score didn't actually sound like something that would interest me. Yet, in the hands of these grossly talented people, this material has been reanimated into a work of fabulous art, rooted in tradition and yet wholly original.
I picked up this CD after I returned home and have listened to it several times - and still cry. The music and lyrics are top drawer. The cast in dynamic. This is quality rock and roll - the high energy numbers are terrific, but the ballads (and they are plentiful) are what keep me listening again and again. Buy this CD (see this show).Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast) OverviewDecca Broadway presents the cast recording for the acclaimed new Broadway production, SPRING AWAKENING. Written by pop music composer Duncan Sheik and playwright/lyricist Steven Sater, the musical explores emotional earthquakes in the lives of teenagers. SPRING AWAKENING is based on Frank Wedekind's controversial 1891 drama, which was scandalous in its day for addressing sex violence and suicide. The story, dialogue and costumes suggest the 19th Century, and are perfectly wedded to a beautiful alternative pop music score by Grammy® nominated singer/songwriter Duncan Sheik. The creative team also includes Tony® Award Winning director Michael Mayer (Thoroughly Modern Millie) and legendary choreographer Bill T. Jones.

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Les Miserables 10th Anniversary Concert Review

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Les Miserables 10th Anniversary Concert ReviewIf you only buy one Les Mis CD then BUY THIS ONE!! Granted it is not the complete version (ok so you'll have to go buy that one too) but just the raw talent of the performers on this recording is amazing.
Philip Quast has one of the most powerful voices that I have ever heard and it fits perfectly with Javert's character. "Stars" is my favorite song mainly for that reason.
Colm Wilkinson of course is the best Valjean out there. Sometimes his little rips at the end of a sustained note are annoying but his performance of "Bring Him Home" is the best.
And finally Lea Salonga is simply perfect as Eponine. She has a powerful yet very sweet voice that conveys Eponine's sadness without sounding whiny. Her performance of "On My Own" is nothing short of FANTASTIC and is giving Quast's performance of "Stars" a run for its money in my mind. Lea Salonga is quickly becoming one of my favorite singers and this recording is what first got my attention about her.
Overall, this recording is the best Les Mis recording out there. To get the whole story buy the Complete Symphonic Recording but for just pure enjoyment in listening, you MUST get this one!Les Miserables 10th Anniversary Concert OverviewLive in concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Cast recording. Publisher: AMZ-Omaha 1996 Format: Audio CD, 2 discs, 19 tracks ISBN: 766927332623

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Memphis: A New Musical (Orginal Cast Recording) Review

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Memphis: A New Musical (Orginal Cast Recording) ReviewI have been working on this show for three years and still LOVE listening to the music. Even my boyfriend, who does not like musicals, listens to this album in the car, and especially likes the David Bryan track and Chad Kimball's high note in "Memphis Lives in Me." In fact, one of the best days of my life was driving in the car over Christmas and singing "Someday" with my non-musical loving boyfriend. "Someday" was the first song I fell in love with and now the whole thing is a favorite.Memphis: A New Musical (Orginal Cast Recording) Overview

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Company: A Musical Comedy (2007) Review

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Company: A Musical Comedy (2007) ReviewMarry me a little,
Love me just enough.
Cry but not too often,
Play but not too rough.
Keep a tender distance
So we'll both be free.
That's the way it ought to be....
Only Stephen Sondheim could come up with such sophisticated couplets to a love song as disquieting as the beautiful "Marry Me a Little". I was very fortunate to have seen the enthralling 2006 production at the Ethel Barrymore Theater last season, and I'm thrilled it has been captured for posterity on DVD as part of PBS's "Great Performances" series. There is something supremely ironic about how a 37-year old show, already revived twice, can feel fresher than most Broadway musicals written today. However, when the music reflects Sondheim at his most accomplished with performers so adept, it becomes a moot point, even though several of the songs here have been inescapable at karaoke bars for years from the lips of overly zealous musical theater aficionados.
Staged like a minimalist cabaret act, John Doyle's joyous revival uses the same technique he used in his 2005 production of Sondheim's Sweeney Todd, specifically he has the actors play their own musical instruments, a daring move which actually helps underline the characters' feelings. The story is blessedly simple as it revolves around perennial bachelor Bobby, as he turns 35 and observes his circle of upscale Manhattanite friends, five married couples at different stages in various vignettes that make him reconsider what he wants out of life. Juggling three girlfriends, Bobby is a likeable but elliptical figure with commitment issues, and the story really follows his journey toward self-acceptance. There is an element of contrivance to the structure, but what I thought would be a severely dated libretto by George Furth continues to resonate with wit and insight.
For a canon as legendary and often erratic as his, Sondheim's sophisticated music and lyrics never seemed as accessible and hummable as they do here. So much of the show rides on the crucial casting of Bobby, and Raúl Esparza is terrifically bold and poignant in managing the precarious balance between yearning romantic and cynical hedonist. With a beautifully expressive singing voice coupled with a common-guy demeanor, he captures the character's arc with an escalating emotional intensity from the measured romanticism of "Someone Is Waiting" to the tender tentativeness of "Marry Me a Little" (with the beautiful, Sondheim-trademarked rolling piano) to the bursting climactic catharsis of "Being Alive".
The rest of the cast accomplish wonderful moments that already come with high expectations - Heather Laws' dexterously motors her way through "Getting Married Today" with her character's nerve-wracking intensity intact; Elizabeth Stanley brings a likable warmth to the dim-bulb flight attendant April as she duets sweetly with Esparza on the comically post-coital "Barcelona"; Angel Desai's saucy turn as hip Marta on "Another Hundred People"; the poignant "Sorry-Grateful" performed by the comparatively less spotlighted male ensemble; and of course, there are the lacerating observations in "The Ladies Who Lunch", handled with fierce worldliness by Barbara Walsh as Joanne. In the intimidating shadow of Elaine Stritch, Walsh lets out repeated primal screams at the end that pierce with wounding acuity.
TV director Lonny Price does a fluent job transferring the production to the small screen with minimum fuss. The 2008 DVD contains three terrific extras. First, there is a fifteen-minute interview with an articulate and thoughtful Esparza who discusses his connection with Bobby, the challenge of learning piano, and the alternating joy and pressure of working with Sondheim (for the third time). There is also a nine-minute interview with the erudite Doyle who explains how his unique use of actors as musicians went over with Sondheim. The centerpiece has to be a fascinating, 38-minute interview that Australian TV personality Jonathan Biggins conducted with Sondheim last year in Sydney's Theatre Royal. Sondheim is particularly forthcoming with humorous anecdotes about working with the likes of Leonard Bernstein, Ethel Merman, Barbra Streisand, and his mentor Oscar Hammerstein II during his long, illustrious career. This is a wonderful DVD for any Broadway aficionado and particularly for fans of Sondheim, Esparza and Doyle. I happen to be all three.Company: A Musical Comedy (2007) Overview

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Musicals Classics 50 Movie Pack Collection (1949) Review

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Musicals Classics 50 Movie Pack Collection (1949) Review1947Fabulous Dorseys, TheTommy DorseyJimmy DorseyPaul Whiteman
1947Calendar GirlJane Frazee William MarshallVictor McLaglen
1941SunnyAnna Neagle Ray BolgerEdward Everett Horton
1944Swing HostessMartha Tilton Iris Adrian Charles Collins
1930DixianaBebe DanielsBert WheelerRobert Wolsey
1934PalookaJimmy Durante Lupe VelezStuart Erwin
1929Glorifying the American GirlEddie CantorRudy Vallee Noah Beery Jr.
1933Check and Double CheckDuke Ellington Freeman F Gosden Charles J Correll
1939Paradise in HarlemMamie Smith Frank L Wilson Norman Astwood
1946Duke is Tops, TheLena HorneRalph CooperLaurence Criney
1947Reet, Petite and Gone Louis JordanJune Richmond Milton Wood
1948Killer DillerNat King Cole Johnny Miller Oscar Moore
1945Delightfully Dangerous Jane Powell Ralph Bellamy Arthur Treacher
1942Private BuckarooAndrews Sisters Shemp HowardDonald O'Connor
1943Stage Door CanteenKenny Baker Tallulah BankheadEdgar Bergen
1943Career Girl Frances LangfordEdward Norris Iris Adrian
1941Second Chorus Fred AstairePaulette GoddardArtie Shaw
1944TrocaderoRosemary Lane Johnny DownsRalph Morgan
1946People Are FunnyJack HaleyRudy ValeeArt Linkletter
1946Doll Face Dennis O'Keefe Perry ComoVivian Blaine
1929Great Gabbo, TheEric Von Stroheim Betty Compson Donald Douglas
1936Dancing Pirate, TheFrank MorganCharles CollinsSteffi Duna
1941Road Show Adolph Menjou Carole Landis John Hubbard
1943Hi Diddle Diddle Adolphe Menjou Martha ScottDennis O'Keefe
1956Rock, Rock, Rock Tuesday WeldChuck Berry Valerie Harper
1934King Kelly of the USA Edgar Kennedy Guy Robertson Irene Ware
1955Rock N' Roll RevueDuke Ellington Nat King Cole Lionel Hampton
1955Rhythm and Blues Revue Nat King Cole Sarah VaughnCount Basie
1946Till the Clouds Roll By Judy GarlandFrank Sinatra Dinah Shore
1941All-American Co-EdJohnny DownsFrances LangfordNoah Beery Jr.
1947Hi Di HoCab CallowayIda James Jeni Le Gon
1946Breakfast in Hollywood Bonita GranvilleBeulah Bondi Zasu Pitts
Soundies Festival Ethel WatersEddy GreenDusty Fletcher
Soundies Cavalcade Lena HorneTeddy WilsonDusty Fletcher
1930Reaching For The Moon Douglas Fairbanks Bebe DanielsEdward Everett Horton
1951Mr Imperium Lana Turner Ezio PinzaDebbie Reynolds
1951Royal Wedding Fred AstaireJane Powell Peter Lawford
1957Pied Piper of Hamelin, TheVan Johnson Jim BackusClaude Rains
1962Wild Guitar Arch Hall Jr. Nancy CzarArch Hall Sr.
1941Murder With Music Nellie Hill Alston Bob Dillard
1952Jack And The Beanstalk Bud AbbottLou CostelloBuddy Baer
1946Road To Hollywood, TheBing Crosby Bud Pollard Marion Sayers
1936Big Show, TheGene AutrySmiley Burnette Kay Hughes
1962Black TightsCyd CharisseMaurice Chevalier Moira Shearer
1941FiestaAnne AyarsJorge Negrete Armida
1941Let's Go Collegiate Gale StormFrankie Darro Marcia Mae Jones
1940Up in the Air Frankie Darro Marjorie Reynolds Mantan Moreland
1944Minstrel ManGladys George Benny FieldsAlan Dinehart
1937Rhythm in the CloudsPatricia Ellis Warren Hull William Newell
1936Sitting on the Moon Grace Bradley Roger Pryor William NewellMusicals Classics 50 Movie Pack Collection (1949) OverviewRediscover the magic of Fred Astaire in Second Chorus and Royal Wedding. Marvel at the incredible dance moves of Cyd Charisse and Jane Powell in Black Tights and Delightfully Dangerous. Relive the magic of jazz legends like Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton, The Dorsey Brothers, Count Basie and Sarah Vaughn. Sit back and enjoy the songs of all time greats like Lena Horne, Frank Sinatra, Eartha Kitt, Perry Como, Judy Garland and Dinah Shore. The Classic Musicals 50-MoviePack brings an incomparable world of song, dance and orchestration to life in a collection that offers countless hours of entertainment.

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Avenue Q (2003 Original Broadway Cast) Review

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Avenue Q (2003 Original Broadway Cast) ReviewMy wife and I just saw this on Broadway last week. It was one of those wipe-the-tears-of laughter from my eyes experience.
The standard description for the show has been "Sesame Street meets South Park", because the puppets, the setting and the music all are OBVIOUSLY Jim Henson-inspired, and because it is gleefully bawdy and offensive in an equal-opportunity kind of way.
While that is true, I found that the true similarity lies within the amount of truth and humanity all three have. Things are said, and ideas proposed, that would be inappropriate for "humans" to say. Seeing "puppets" talk about racism, porn, homosexuality, poverty and love enables you to look at it from a slightly different angle, and you'll learn a little bit more about yourself without even trying.
That is, if you can stop from laughing so dang loud.
The cast album perfectly captures the show, including just enough of the dialogue to give you the gist of the entire production. The vocal talent is impressive, with most singers doing two (or more) parts.
Seeing it live, realizing they are acting and puppeteering at the same time, the talent rises from "impressive" to "awesome".
The songs are flat-out irresistible. You'll be humming along before the individual songs even end.
The titles alone induce giggling: "What Do You Do With a B.A. in English", "It Sucks To Be Me", "The Internet is for Porn"...
Now, let's be perfectly clear. This is NOT for everyone. If you are easily offended, if you are homophobic, if you are uncomfortable talking about sex or race...this is NOT for you. This is not for kids.
It IS one of the most riotously funny Broadway experiences I've ever had. And the CD captures it perfectly.
By the way, if you haven't seen puppet sex, you haven't lived...
("It's OK to Be Loud As Hell (When You're Making Love)".Avenue Q (2003 Original Broadway Cast) OverviewAVENUE Q is a musical that has been running on Broadway since 2003 and is currently the 25th longest running musical in Broadway history and it has won 3 Tony Awards including BEST MUSICAL. The show is largely inspired by (and in the style of) Sesame Street.for adults. Most of the characters are puppets (operated by actors onstage). The characters use profanity and the songs concern adultthemes.AVENUE Q is the story of Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad who comes to New York City with big dreams and a tiny bank account. He soon discovers that the only neighborhood in his price range is Avenue Q; still, the neighbors seem nice. There's Brian the out-of-work comedian and his therapist fiance‚ Christmas Eve; Nicky the good-hearted slacker and his roommate Rod -- a Republican investment banker who seems to have some sort of secret; an Internet addict called Trekkie Monster; and a very cute kindergarten teaching assistant named Kate. And would you believe the building's superintendent is Gary Coleman?!? (Yes, that Gary Coleman.) Together, Princeton and his newfound friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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