Rediscovering the 1982 Original Broadway Cast Recording of CATS

Welcome to a nostalgic dive into the enchanting world of musical theatre with another review of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical CATS, but this time I’m highlighting the 1982 Original Broadway Cast Recording. This album, a true cornerstone of the genre, offers a unique peek into the beginnings of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic mega musical. I recently revisited this classic recording and found myself captivated all over again and decided to rewrite and update my thoughts on the album. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just curious, join me on this journey through the raw energy and early brilliance of CATS. There's something magical waiting for you in this album.

I've been a longtime fan (and one-time performer) of Andrew Lloyd Webber's music, including his mega musical, CATS, which I was NOT involved in. I first encountered it with my friend Tom when I was 16, back in 1992. Mesmerized by the fantastical story, the captivating music, massive set that stretched beyond the stage and into the audience and the iconic costumes, it was a spectacle unlike anything I'd ever seen. Revisiting the classic 1982 Original Broadway Cast Recording recently, I realized something: this album is less of what I remember from what the Broadway production evolved into by the time I saw it, and more a fascinating glimpse into the concept of CATS, a snapshot of its initial form. And I love it all the more for that. While this recording isn't my personal favorite (that honor goes to the 1985 Australian cast album and the original 1986 Berlin cast recording), it holds a special place as a cornerstone of musical theatre history, especially here in the US where it, along with the original London cast recording, are among the most readily available versions.

The recording of the Original Broadway Cast was released by Geffen Records on January 26, 1983. Two versions were released: a two-disc "complete" edition and a single-disc "highlights" edition. It was recorded by the entire cast, including the swings, in October 1982, and certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America on December 5, 1988, having sold over 2 million copies. This recording also won Best Cast Show Album at the 26th Annual Grammy Awards.

The iconic original Broadway cast delivers unforgettable performances. Listening to this recording now, I'm struck by the power and vulnerability of Betty Buckley's Grizabella. I was a hardcore fan of my first Grizabella, Laurie Beechman, was it was hard not to compare their performances. As I got older, I have grown to love what Betty Buckley brought to the role. Her rendition of "Memory" is legendary for good reason, a truly show-stopping moment. It's clear she channeled something deeply human in her portrayal, capturing the desperation and heartbreak of a character at the end of her rope. It’s as if she studied real people struggling with life's hardships, bringing incredible authenticity to the role. From Ken Page's booming Old Deuteronomy to Terrence Mann's charismatic Rum Tum Tugger, each actor brings their unique personality and vocal talents to their role, creating a truly memorable ensemble.

Andrew Lloyd Webber's score is a masterpiece, though aside from "Memory" and "The Jellicle Ball," I wouldn’t say any of the other numbers would be suited for airplay on the radio, definitely not for top 40 radio stations. The catchy melodies, soaring orchestrations and emotional depth make this album an enduring classic. "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats," "The Rum Tum Tugger," and, of course, "Memory" are just a few of the many highlights.

Listening to this recording is a different kind of nostalgic journey. It’s not just about my memories of seeing the show; it's about connecting with the origins of a theatrical phenomenon. It's a chance to hear the show in its initial form soon after it was mounted on Broadway a year after its London debut, before it became the polished production I witnessed in person.

The album has been remastered in recent years, bringing the sound quality to astonishingly sharp and pristine, enabling a full appreciation of the music and vocals' subtleties. Every orchestral instrument and vocal nuance is distinctly audible.

This recording captures the majority of the original Broadway score, allowing you to experience the show as it was initially presented. Note: While known as the complete definitive recording, it's worth noting that "The Aweful Battle of the Pekes and the Pollicles" as well as some of the extended dance sections and incidental and transitional numbers were not recorded.

While I resonate more deeply with other recordings, the 1982 Broadway cast recording holds significant weight as one of the most widely available versions in the US. It serves as a crucial introduction to CATS for countless fans and remains an important part of the show's legacy.

CATS continues to captivate audiences worldwide, in spite of the unpopular film version, and this recording is a testament to its timeless appeal. It's a piece of musical theatre history that continues to resonate with listeners, offering a glimpse into the genesis of a theatrical icon.

Whether you're a long-time fan of CATS, exploring different versions or discovering it for the first time, the 1982 Original Broadway Cast Recording is an essential addition to your collection. It's a piece of musical history that will continue to delight and inspire for generations to come, and a fascinating look at the evolution of a beloved musical.

Notable Cast Members include Betty Buckley (Grizabella), Known for her powerful rendition of "Memory," Betty has gone on to a distinguished career in theatre and television, including roles in the 1988 musical version of Carrie, having starred in the original film, Sunset Boulevard in London and New York as well as the television series Oz. Ken Page (Old Deuteronomy) lent his voice to Oogie Boogie in The Nightmare Before Christmas and appeared in the 2006 film adaption of Dreamgirls. Terrence Mann (Rum Tum Tugger) continued to shine on Broadway with notable roles in Les Misérables, Beauty and the Beast and Scarlet Pimpernel.

Sadly, we've lost some of these incredible talents over the years: Mr. Mistoffelees,Timothy Scott will be remembered fondly for his enchanting performances. And René Ceballos, the original Cassandra left an indelible mark on the original cast.

And there you have it! My thoughts on the 1982 Original Broadway Cast Recording of CATS. I hope my reflections have sparked your interest in revisiting this musical gem or maybe experiencing it for the first time. I'd love to hear your own memories and impressions of this iconic recording, so feel free to drop a comment. If you enjoyed this review and found it helpful, your support in any way would be much appreciated—it means a lot and helps keep the magic alive. Let's continue celebrating the wonder of musical theatre together and cherish its lasting impact on our lives.

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A Purr-fectly Delightful Return to the Jellicle Ball! CATS: 1985 Australian Cast Recording

Ever since I first saw the Broadway production of CATS with my friend Tom back in 1992, I've been hooked. The sheer spectacle of the show, the elaborate costumes, dynamic choreography, and unforgettable music left a lasting impression on me. Over the years, I’ve collected various recordings, but none have quite captured the magic I remember from that night at the Winter Garden Theatre.

In 1996, while shopping at Footlight Records in New York, I stumbled upon the Australian cast recording of CATS. Until then, I hadn't known it even existed. This recording is, simply put, superb. Unlike the original Broadway and London cast recordings, which feel more like concept albums, this version brings me back to that 1992 performance. Despite being recorded 40 years ago, it offers a fresh yet nostalgic take on the beloved score. The sound quality is top-notch, crisp, and clear, allowing every little nuance of the performances to shine through. And let's talk about the inclusion of "The Pekes and the Pollicles" and the operatic section of "Growltiger's Last Stand"—these numbers are often omitted from other recordings, so it's a real treat for any CATS fan.

I adore both Betty Buckley and Elaine Paige as Grizabella on the Broadway and London recordings, and Debbie Byrne's interpretation adds a new dimension to their already iconic versions. The cast is outstanding, from Debbie Byrne's emotionally resonant Grizabella to Grant Smith's triple threat as Bustopher Jones, Gus, and Growltiger. Each performer brings their feline character to life with distinct personality and vocal prowess. Debbie’s take reminds me a bit of the long-time Broadway Grizabella, Laurie Beechman. Oh, and Marina Prior, who played the original Christine in the Australian premiere of The Phantom of the Opera, lends her incredible vocals to this cast as well. Some may find certain interpretations, like Mungojerrie's "vaudeville" style, a bit unconventional, but I found these choices refreshing and engaging. The orchestrations are lively and dynamic, capturing the playful and mischievous spirit of the Jellicle cats.

Let's not forget other notable cast members who went on to shine in the world of musical theatre. Anita Louise Combe later starred as Cosette in the original Australian production of Les Miserables, Betty Schaefer in both the London and Toronto productions of Sunset Blvd can be heard as Sillabub on this recording, David Atkins, who played Mistoffelees, later became a renowned choreographer and director, known for his work on the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games opening and closing ceremonies. Jeff Phillips, who portrayed Rum Tum Tugger, continued to have a successful career in Australian television and theatre. Pat Piney, who played Jennyanydots, also had a distinguished career in musical theatre, performing in various productions across Australia.

This recording isn't just a nostalgic trip; it's a fantastic preservation of the evolution of CATS. It's a must-have for any fan of the musical, whether you're a seasoned theatre-goer like me or a newcomer eager to experience the magic for the first time. It’s a treasure I’ll cherish for years to come, and I highly recommend adding this gem to your collection.

Thanks for joining me on this trip down memory lane! Do you have any favorite CATS memories or thoughts on this Australian cast recording? I'd love to hear about them in the comments below. Your insights are greatly appreciated! If you enjoyed this review and would like to support my creative endeavors, any contributions would be greatly appreciated. Just know that your support means the world to me. 😊

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A Night to Remember: Unexpectedly Experiencing Cats on Broadway for the First Time in 1992

The original Broadway home of CATS

Seeing Cats on Broadway in September 1992 was a magical experience. My friend Tom and I met in front of the Majestic Theatre, hoping to see The Phantom of the Opera. Unfortunately, it was sold out. Though it was in its 4th year, Phantom tickets were a challenge to get, and two seats together were almost impossible. We accepted defeat and decided to try another show. I had suggested Les Misérables, but Tom said it was three hours long and the only special effect was the guns, so he suggested Cats. I had not seen the show yet and had only heard the songs "Memory" and "Mr. Mistoffelees." From the moment we walked into the theatre, I was awestruck. The set was everywhere. Christmas lights strung over the audience made it feel like we had walked onto a movie set. As the lights dimmed and the overture began, you knew you were in for something special when you heard the patter of feet throughout the theatre and saw glowing eyes moving around the aisles. The costumes and sets were impressive. Tom and I were sitting close to the stage, in a row that had enough space for the actors to pass in front of us. The elaborate cat costumes, complete with furry tails and whiskers, transformed the actors into their feline counterparts but definitely not your average kitty cats. As Old Deuteronomy, played by Ken Prymus, slowly passed us, observing everyone around as an old cat would do, Tom and I could feel some of the fibers that made up his costume, which I discovered was made of yak hair. The set, designed to resemble a junkyard, was a playground for the cats, filled with oversized props that created a sense of scale and fantasy. The use of lighting and special effects added an extra layer of magic, making the entire production feel like a dream come to life. I have seen the 4th national touring production a few times and as great as the cast members were, the magic just doesn't transfer to most theatres in spite of the impressive set.

The creative team of CATS

The cast brought their A-game too. Each character was portrayed with such detail, including little tics that cat owners would notice as part of normal behavior for their own feline friends. Jennyanydots, played by Rose McGuire, was hysterical, as was Bradford Minkoff in the role of Rum Tum Tugger. Mister Mistoffelees was performed by an incredibly graceful dancer from Japan named Gen Horiuchi. I was not one to enjoy dancing, especially ballet-like moves, but Mr. Horiuchi was so mesmerizing that he is the reason I began to appreciate different styles of dance. Roger Kachel and the adorable Kristi Lynes brought a lot of comic relief to the show as Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer. Munkustrap, played by Bryan Batt, was the kitty I would have chosen to adopt and take home. Batt was the sort of leading man whose velvety voice could fit into any leading role. As much as I loved everyone I saw in the cast, there was another who could have just walked on stage, sang her song, and called it a night. Laurie Beechman, who played Grizabella, delivered a truly unforgettable performance. Her rendition of "Memory" was nothing short of haunting, filled with raw emotion that left the audience in awe. Her powerful voice is most likely echoing in the rafters of the Winter Garden Theatre to this day. Laurie Beechman's expressive acting made her a standout among a talented cast. I've seen several ladies perform the role of Grizabella, all very talented, but Laurie Beechman seemed to tap into the character to the point where everyone could sense something was not at all right about that cat. Pain, longing, and loneliness are words that come to mind, but there was more to it. Years later, I read that Laurie had struggled with and battled ovarian cancer for many years and worked throughout her treatment despite her pain. I had the luck of meeting her in 1993 and loved her warm, sweet demeanor. I was 16 or 17 and sort of starstruck, but she was not having it. The moment she grabbed my hand and thanked me for my words about her performance, my nerves were gone. She signed my CD copies of her Listen To My Heart and Time Between the Time albums, both of which I treasure to this day.

Laurie Beechman as Grizabella

The ensemble numbers were packed with energy, showcasing the incredible talent of the dancers and singers. It was clear that every performer was fully committed to their role, creating a vibrant and immersive world on stage. In addition to the infectious music and larger-than-life set, the choreography was another highlight of the show. Gillian Lynne's dance sequences were both intricate and fluid, perfectly capturing the feline grace and agility of the characters. The dancers moved effortlessly across the stage, their movements synchronized with the pulsating rhythm of the music. Each dance number was a visual feast, adding depth and dynamism to the storytelling. By the end of the show, I was in tears—it was beautiful and so immersive. I was there with a man I had crushed on for years, and though my focus would have been on him in any other setting, I basically ignored him for two hours. But the second we exited the Winter Garden, there I was, with Tom and our memories of seeing Cats. After leaving the show, I had to have the cast album and acquired both the London and Broadway recordings. Comparing the live show to the cast recording, there were some noticeable differences in the orchestrations. The live performance had a richer, more immersive sound, with the orchestra bringing a dynamic range that you just can't capture in a recording. The music felt more alive, responding to the energy of the performers and the audience. While the cast recording is a wonderful way to relive the show, nothing compares to the experience of seeing Cats live on stage, where every note, movement, and emotion come together to create an unforgettable theatrical experience.

If you’re interested in the music of Cats, I highly recommend the 1985 Australian Cast Recording. It’s the most extensive of all the English-language cast albums and reflects many of the changes made after the show had been running for a few years in New York. Debra Byrne’s Grizabella is stellar. The Broadway cast album is also great, especially with Betty Buckley's powerful rendition of "Memory," though the show did change slightly after the album was recorded. The London Cast Recording, while nice for a 42-year-old album, feels more like a concept album at this point. However, Elaine Paige's rendition of "Memory" is iconic, and hearing Sarah Brightman as Jemima is kinda awesome. The film soundtrack, much like the film itself, is not recommended.

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