Customer Reviews

Singin' in the Rain (1996 Studio Cast)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When I heard that several school Drama departments use this recording as sort of a "how-to", I thought I'd look up a copy. An American movie musical done by a British cast I thought?

Well, I was quite pleasantly surprised. This recording is light, bubbly and extremely well done. The songs and music have all the right effects where they should, all the right rhythms, nuances, etc. This really is an excellent archival copy to listen to if you want to know how this show should be done. I would recommend this highly to anyone who enjoys the musical theater.

Don't be mislead by the other reviewers' grudging appreciation of this 'British' cast recording. Whilst it was made at Abbey Road Studios in London, the principal performers are all American. Of these, Michael Gruber is outstanding in the Gene Kelly role, which he's reprised in several productions in the US. As far as I know these shows have never been filmed, but if you want to see the multi-talented Mr Gruber in action, check out the Cats DVD - he's Munkustrap.

I was first somewhat skeptical when I saw that a british cast had attempted an American music classic; however when I heard the vocals I was pleasently suprised. All of the leading performers are excellent, including the performer who is being critiqued against the famous Gene Kelly. Nancy Ringam's voice is magical, and defenetly adds a modern touch to the piece. Stand out numbers on this soundtrack include "make em laugh," "moses," "good morning," and of course the lengendary title song. This item is defenetly a must have in your collection.