Reviews (3)

I loved it !!!!!!!!!
Im such of fan of the show " Will and Grace" and then i relized when i was listening to my Broadway Grease soundtrack Meagan Mullaly ( who is Karen on will and grace) plays marty, who sings freddy, my love. which made me love the cd even more....i feel everyone on the soundtrack is a strong singer and i love the cd alot, i would suggest it to anyone....i like the brooke shields version 10 times better then the rosie o'donnel version ,even thouigh its the same cast exept the role of rizzo , we all knwo rosie o'donnel cant sing so that makes that album less enjoyable..... So my vote is for this grease album

Vale la pena comprar el CD de Grease el Musical?
La primera pregunta que se haran es la siguiente: ¿Cual es la diferencia con la musica de la pelicula?. Es simple, las melodias del musical no han perdido para nada la belleza de las canciones de los años 50's, en cambio las melodias de la Movie de Grease son un hibrido con la musica de los 70's (notaran que en el musical no existen las canciones "Grease", "You're the one That I want"). Al principio chocara un poco a quienes estabamos acostubrados a la musica de la Movie. Los coros son mas simples pero mas elaborados, los cantantes son A-1, pero al final adoraran la musica, es fantastica y es distinta. Pero ojo, Brooke Shields como cantante es buena cocinera, realmente Stockard Channing la supera en la Movie, con su fantastica y arrolladora version de "There are worse things I could do". Brooke no tiene la fuerza de voz ni el temperamento, o la picardia de Stokcard (recuerdan cuando se burla de Sandy?) como Betty Rizzo al momento de cantar.

La Musica de La Movie y el Musical deben ser tratadas de distintas manera, ambas son excelentes y magnificas.

5 estrellas.

This Revial of Grease is wonderful!
This Grease recording is wonderful! The choral revisions made on this recording are outstanding and this compact disc should be in any musical lovers library! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Although she's not averse to doing new material (she appeared in William Finn's Falsettoland, for instance, and let's not forget that brilliant bomb called Nick and Nora), Faith Prince is a living embodiment of Broadway's golden age. From her star-making turn as Miss Adelaide in the 1992 revival of Guys and Dolls to superb performances in the recent revivals of Little Me and The King and I, Prince always is perfectly attuned to classic material. In this short-lived revival of the 1956 musical Bells Are Ringing(directed by Tina Landau, whose previous musical-directing experience was on Floyd Collins), the singer reprises a role created by Judy Holliday and once again proves her versatility. The duet with Marc Kadisch on "Just in Time" is particularly delicious, doing full justice to that beloved song.--Elisabeth Vincentelli ... Read more

Reviews (19)

a fine revival
BELLS ARE RINGING was brought back to Broadway in 2001, in an ill-fated revival that only lasted a couple of months due to lukewarm notices.

Tony-winner Faith Prince (GUYS AND DOLLS) gives her all in the lead role of hopeless romantic Ella Peterson. The role is virtually owned by the late Judy Holliday, who starred in the original Broadway run and later the under-rated movie version. Prince gives us a fresh new look at Ella, with glowing readings of "It's a Perfect Relationship", "Just in Time" and the still-delicious "The Party's Over".

Marc Kudisch, in the decidedly-wooden role of Jeff Moss, sings wonderfully in his songs including the frenetic "I Met a Girl" and "Long Before I Knew You".

This cast also includes Beth Fowler as Sue and Martin Moran as Sandor, who share the comical duet "Salzburg".

Most of the criticism in this revival was aimed at Tina Landau's direction, and the age of the book which seemed too old-fashioned for 'modern' theatregoers. Still, a great musical and a great recording for fans.

Highly-recommended

Good only if you saw the show.
I loved the revival of the musical. It's classic! It's so funny and charming and unpretentious. But unfortuneately this album displays the musical as dull and lifeless. Faith Prince comes off as overplayed and "kitschy" and Mark Kudisch comes off as bored. When I saw the show neither seemed that way at all. The song "I'm Going Back" brought the house down on Broadway, but I often skip that track when I listen to the cd, I'm sorry to say. Luckily, the big hit from the show "The Party's Over" is still as beautiful as the first time it was written-- and Thank God. It's a good play... a good cast... and has good music! It just comes off as very poor and dull...

Have "Faith" in These Bells
Let's face it..."Bells Are Ringing" is hardly a substantive Broadway classic. It's theme is dated, as are its notions of the male/female relationship, and many of its references remain staunchly in the 1950s conventionailty of its genesis. But you know what? These shortcomings are equally some of this shows definite charms. "Bells..." is a quintessential example of the Broadway musical's prime years of the 50s and 60s. It's light, entertaining, funny, hummable, and just plain fun. There's none of the "sterm-and-drang" that would come post-Viet Nam. This new recording, quite frankly, is a vast improvement over the original for one simple reason: the two leads can actually sing. Judy Holliday was a marvel of an actress, and this show was tailored to her abilities, but her raspy voice actually detracted from the cleverness of these songs. And Sidney Chaplin, poor soul, was a hapless singer even at the best of times. This time out, Faith Prince reinvents the role as her own and displays both the musical and comedic flair that make her such a unique presence on the legit stage. If only she received more roles of this stature. Can somebody please tailor a new vehicle worthy of her talents? Mark Kudisch brings a pleasing baritone and an effortless energy to his role, and the two play off one another beautifully on this recording. Although some of these songs have dated somewhat, it's still a thrill to hear them delivered as if they were just composed. Of course, "Just in Time" and "The Party's Over" have justifiable reputations, but there are more goodies behind the hits. "It's a Perfect Relationship", "Hello, Hello There", "Drop a Name" and I'm Going Back" are all lively and delicious musical cotton candy, funny and fun to hear with these performers. What makes this CD so good is that it's one of the best produced original cast recordings in years. The singers sound like they're right next to you, adding to the intimacy and personable nature of their characters. There's none of the bobast and canyon-like distance so typical of the post-Lloyd Webber age. Here, you feel like you're listening to a couple of old chums and you're just aching for them to find each other. Of course, you know they will, but their musical journey is still a hoot. This "Bells Are Ringing" is a simple, direct, joyously ebullient lark from start to finish. It's a great addition to any Broadway collection, and a reminder of why those simple musical-comedy shows were such a treat in their heydey. Enjoy.

SORRY, WRONG NUMBER!
Ringing? More like clunking. Way back in '56, Comden and Green sat down and wrote a musical for their chum Judy Holliday. With Jule Stein's help, this trio concocted the classic Bells Are Ringing---a musical marvel about a telephone answering service in New York City. The original recording---recently reissued with bonus tracks by Sony Legacy---is also a classic, and belongs in every show music library. This recording of the recently deceased Broadway revival does not. The music and lyrics are still wonderful and moving and funny, but star Faith Prince is cloying and charmless. Sorry, wrong number.

For die hard Faith Prince lovers only
If you love Faith Prince, then BELLS ARE RINGING is a definite must have for your collection. If you're new to the Faith Prince experience, this would be a decent introduction ( though, honestly, I would begin by listening to Faith in the revival of GUYS AND DOLLS ). However, if you've never warmed to Faith Prince in the past, this cd will hardly change your opinion. Personally, I enjoy Faith's voice, but find her to be a one note actress with not much range. My advice: buy if you're a fan, or consider buying if you're curious,but either way, don't expect a masterpiece. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Skip this one
Some new lyrics, some new orchestrations. Not much new in this recording. A few irritating performances. Many better recordings to choose from. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Mounting a revival of 42nd Street seemed a bit premature--after all, the show had closed in 1989 after nearly nine years on Broadway. But as a giddy love letter to the musical theater, it can't be beat, so we're not going to complain. Inspired by Busby Berkeley's movie, the show includes one great Warren-Dubin number after another, making it a feast of titanium-plated hits that include "You're Getting to Be a Habit with Me," "Dames," "We're in the Money," "Lullaby of Broadway," and, of course, the title song. The leads are on the bland side, but the rest of the cast--most notably Mary Testa, Jonathan Freeman, and 2001 Tony-winner Christine Ebersole--has more than enough spunk to fuel this revival. This is one of the most joyous albums you're likely to hear in a while. Just close your eyes and prepare to be swept into a wondrous world of sassy dames and high-kickin' chorus girls. --Elisabeth Vincentelli ... Read more

Reviews (30)

it's getting to be a habit with me!
I have a history with 42nd Street; it was one of the first movie musicals I ever saw, and I have always loved it. I also loved the original cast recording. When I heard they were bringing it back to Broadway, I was extremely excited and bought the cast recording the day it came out. This cast is to die for, as are the incredible orchestrations. Christine Ebersole and David Elder are my favorites on the recording. Ms. Ebersole has a beautiful voice. Her rendition of I Only Have Eyes For You is not to be missed, and her versions of the songs that were originally in the show (such as You're Getting To Be a Habit With Me and About A Quarter To Nine) make Tammy Grimes's pale in comparison. David Elder and his powerful tenor send chills down my spine in the Dames/Keep Young and Beautiful sequence and I Only Have Eyes For You, and his Young and Healthy is great. Jonathan Freeman and Mary Testa radiate comedy and are in great voice (I still think that Ms. Testa should have won the Tony). The songs are familliar and you'll find yourself singing them everywhere. This is a great cast album and is extremely well done. (I also saw the show on Wednesday, 8/1, and it was incredible beyond my wildest dreams. If you're in NY or are going to be, see it!)

Truly the musical for those who love Broadway musicals
I discovered 42nd Street only this year, as it was my middle school musical. The music is catchy and fun, the lines are cute and funny, and the amount of dancing in the show is just amazing. Although I have yet to see the Broadway Revival,(unfortunately I was born too late for the original, I will never get over that)the CD carries the spirit of the show. Although the tapping is stronger on the original cast recording, the songs are just as beautifully done for the most part.(The original Lullaby of Broadway was better, but I liked the fact that you got to hear what I think is one of the mpost powerful lines in the show before the song). Along with the old favorites are some new ones, such as Keep Young and Beautiful and I Only Have Eyes for You. If you have heard both CDs, you will notice that some songs have different lyrics, like Maggie's verse of Shuffle of to Buffalo, and the added lyrics to 42nd Street. Christine Eberdsole's voice is amazing in range, in fact, if you listen to Shadow Waltz and then skip to the Act I Finale, you will hardly believe you are hearing the same person. Mary Testa and Jonathan Freeman are the perfect Maggie and Bert. Michael Cumpsty, although he is no Jerry Orbach, is a very good Julian Marsh. David Elder has a good tenor voice for Billy. Kate Levering, however, is a little disappointing. While a good singer, she isn't quite a Peggy Sawyer. From what I have heard, Meredith Patterson, the understudy, is more talented than Levering. All in all, if you consider yourself a lover of Broadway musicals, you HAVE to see and hear 42nd Street--Truly the Broadway musical for people who love Broadway musicals.

Not the greatest, but good.
Out of the many soundtracks I own, I can't say 42nd street is my favourite. However, it gets a listen every now and then. The length of it isn't so much a problem [I can listen to the 2001 The Producers and restrain from growing tired], there are a few songs I don't care for. Not to mention, some I blatantly skip over. However, "You're Getting To Be a Habit with Me", "Only Have Eyes For You", "Lullaby of Broadway", "A Quarter to Nine", and "42nd Street" are all excellent, and worh the 20 bucks. The beginning of the sdtk isn't the most enthralling show tunes I've heard, but the latter half makes up for it. If you're aim is to work towards completing your broadway collection, by all means, get this album! But if you're not much of a fan of musicals, there are better. 3.5 stars.

The Big Parade
Even though the original performace only closed in 1989, after a nine year run(one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history), its really no suprise to see 42nd Street back in action. With catchy, classic songs such as the perky, slighty corny "We're in the Money", the comedic "Keep Young and Beautiful", the classic "You're Getting to Be a Habit with Me", the wonderful title song, and of course the big one, the turning point, the always great "Lullaby of Broadway", the show is larger than life. Christine Ebersole is truly a star, with an amazing vocal range. If you listen to all of her songs, you will hardly believe you are hearing the same person. David Elder has a perfect tenor voice, Michael Cumpsty, although everyone says he is no Jerry Orbach, has excellent acting skills, Mary Testa and Jonathan Freeman are the perfect pair, and Kate Levering is a talented Peggy Sawyer. The addition of some new songs, such as "Keep Young and Beautiful", "I Only Have Eyes for You", "With Plenty of Money and You" and the new verse to "42nd Street", make the show even greater. The "grandaddy of all backstage musicals" will never die: 42nd Street, that big parade, really will go on for years.

What Broadway is all about.
If you like the show, you'll love the CD. It does a great job of taking you through the production (let your memory of the show fill in the gaps). Christine Ebersole is absolutely wonderful. Her voice-it's amazing range and clarity-is the best thing about the show and the CD. I've never heard a better rendition of "I Only Have Eyes For You," and "Quarter to Nine" is a delight. 42nd Street made me forever a fan. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Choreographer-turned-director Susan Stroman struck gold twice in the 1999-2000 Broadway season, first with her dance play Contact and then with her grand revival of Meredith Willson's The Music Man. One of the most loving--and beloved--celebrations of Americana ever to grace the stage, The Music Man captures the soul of the heartland with its evocation of brass bands, barbershop quartets, and even piano lessons. The titular role of the fast-talking con man who hoodwinks an Iowa town has, perhaps more than any other role in musical theater, always belonged to one performer: Robert Preston, who starred in the original 1957 Broadway cast and subsequent 1962 film. Craig Bierko, a movie actor making his Broadway debut, acquits himself well, sometimes sounding astonishingly like Preston but without aping him. In his hands, "76 Trombones" remains a rousing signature tune. As Marian the librarian, a radiant Rebecca Luker (star of the Broadway revivals of Show Boat and The Sound of Music) beautifully delivers her ballads, including "My White Knight," which was written for the original stage production but replaced in the film by "Being in Love." Longtime fans will appreciate the inclusion of the barbershop tunes "Ice Cream" and "It's You," and the dance music in "76 Trombones," "Marian the Librarian," and "Shipoopi," as well as a booklet with full lyrics. Preston's magical performances are irreplaceable, but this energetic revival is worthy of a spot on your shelf.--David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (46)

A revival that got everything right!
The 2000 Broadway revival brought the live-on-stage version of "The Music Man" to a new generation of theatregoers, and this recording will take its place among the classics as well. In some ways it surpasses the 1957 original cast recording, although devoted fans will want to have both. More of the show is included (dance sequences, reprises, some dialogue), and the sound quality is outstanding.

Craig Bierko won't make you forget Robert Preston, but he's not just aping the master; he finds his own inflection for many lines. His is a younger, slyer Harold Hill, with more winks and nudges than Preston, who charmed the townsfolk with his apparent sincerity. Rebecca Luker's voice sounds uncannily like Barbara Cook's, but she too makes the part her own. "My White Knight" starts in a low key, then returns to the original pitch, allowing Luker to build up to a breathtaking climax.

The "Rock Island" sequence adds a drum background to the salesmen's chant; far from being obtrusive, the drum heightens the sense of reality, as it sounds just like a laboring steam engine. "Pick-a-little" is much stronger here than on the 1957 recording, as is the chorus in general, and there are many surprises and delights throughout the CD.

All in all, a must-have for anyone who knows and loves the show, and a good introduction for anyone who doesn't.

76 Trombones led the big parade, and are marching still!
This recording, is a highlight of the 1999-2000 Broadway Theater season. This recording is energetic, highly amusing, entertaining, and if you listen carefully, high educational with all of Willson's "hints" at music. (Counterpoint in a few song, and stuff like that).

Willson was undoubtly a geneius with wit, and intelligence. His music graces the recording just like "ice cream"!

Undoubtly, Craig Bierko is in a shadow by Robert Preston, but he brings is own witty portrayal and "smoooooth" talker personality to the role. Rebecca Luker is slightly miscast as Marian, but definitely a good choice, given few can sing like she can, and she handles the role beautifully.

Overall - this cast album deserves to be played, and the band will definitely be "marching still, right today!"

WOW!!! The Best Music Man CD Ever!!
This is the best Music Man CD yet! It has enough new instrumentations that it is interesting, but not so many that it is very different than Broadway. The book that comes with it (the one with the cover on the front) is great, it has pictures, lyrics, cast, and a summary of the play. The quartet was not that good, though. In all this is a 5-star album that any real Music Man fan should own.

Susan Stroman Never Fails!
If you like musicals, buy this CD. It is THE best Music Man cast recording of all time for one main reason; Susan Stroman (many Tony awards) directed it. Since Susan is a choreographer as well as a director she included dance music on this recording. It is great to finally hear complete songs. Although it is not the exact music you will hear if you go to see a "non-Susan Stroman" production of the music man; at least there is dance music. 76 Trombones is the most well known song from the show. On most other cast recordings it has been reduced to about 3 minutes, on this CD however, it is well over 7 minutes long. Also the Shipoopi is horrible on ALL the other recordings, on this one however the music is fabulous and the cast is great! All the songs on this CD are perfect. Craig Bierko is amazing (as good as Robert Preston, maybe better). Rebecca Luker is a great singer and does not at all bring down this cast recording, but she is not quite as good as Kristin Chenoweth from the new movie (but who is?). A lot of the songs have been slightly updated; the best are 'The Wells Fargo Wagon' and 'Finale Ultimo'. This new cast recoding is wonderful and greatly appreciated my music man fans and dancers all over. BUY IT!!!

Second Best ONLY to the Original Broadway Cast
Forget all but the Original Cast Recording. Everything about this Digital Recording blows every other recording of this musical out of the water. I've heard them all (including the new Kristin Chenowith/Matthew Broderick version) and this beats them all. Reading all the reviews of every version of this available here on Amazon.com, I am honestly shocked more people don't know about this incredible version. The cast is by far the best, the chorus is full and on target, and the orchestra is right off the bandstand--and wonderfully recorded. GET THIS NOW! ... Read more