Search - Harvey Schmidt, Tom Jones :: 110 In The Shade (1963 Original Broadway Cast)

Theatrical and Heartening

08/26/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I now own both recordings of this show, and without any doubt, find this recording the most preferable. The vocal qualities of all three leading players are superlative. It is unfortunate that Broadway audiences did not get to experience this musicalisation of "The Rainmaker." Inga Swenson is an actress who has been missed by American audiences. I understand she sustained an ankle injury that caused the show to fold shortly after opening. Her characterization comes through radiantly on the CD. She registers so many emotions it would be impossible to list them all here. The other performances also contain fire and brilliance. The men's voices (lyric baritones) are full of character and life as well.
The newer recording is a disappointment. The two gentlemen are very fine, but Ms. Ziemba, at present one of Broadway's darlings, is vocally not suited for the role. The piece is written for a lyric Soprano. She is a belter, and her singing lacks head voice -- a definite requirement for the part of Lizzie. I looked forward to hearing the entire score, but after listening to the first disc, I quickly put on the RCA original cast and was reintroduced to expressive, lyrical singing that told a story via vocal quality. I suggest the Original Recording hands down to anyone."

Best Broadway cd ever

loesser | 12/27/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is one of the best Broadway recordings ever! It has a very energetic score and the songs will pick you up if you are feeling low. The cast fit perfect in their parts and the story is wonderful (although cliche). If you're looking for a bright and cheerful change to todays brooding scores and songs get this cd and you'll treasure it forever!!!!!"

Great Forgotten Show

loesser | colonia, nj United States | 02/07/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This show ran a bit shorter than Schmidt and Jone's Fantasticks- but it was a better show. Nash's Rainmaker was a perfect vehicle for a musical and Inga Swenson as Lizzie was brilliant. It's a shame she only did a few shows before reaching fame on TV in Benson. Now, Robert Horton was already famous on TV when he did this show and afterwards he happily returned (never to try singing again). The supporting cast was great, particularly Stephen Douglass. Don't miss this great score."