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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Cast Album Review Song & Dance Original Broadway Cast, 1985 (RCA) starring Bernadette Peters

Song and Dance Original Broadway Cast Recording Cover

Back in 1985, there was a lot of buzz around New York for the new Bernadette Peters show, "Song & Dance." Unfortunately, Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Song & Dance" didn't get much attention in the United States outside of New York. It was already a hit in London, originally starring Marti Webb and eventually Liz Robertson, Lulu, and then Sarah Brightman. This recording preserves only "The Songs" of "Song & Dance," essentially known as "Tell Me On A Sunday," omitting act 2, "Dance," which is set to the instrumental music known as "Variations." The producers felt that New York audiences wouldn't connect with the original story, so Richard Maltby, Jr. was brought in to direct the show, adapt it for American audiences, and add lyrics to new songs and revise existing ones. In this version, the character is named Emma, and it follows her involvement with four men: Chuck, Sheldon, a married man named Paul, and the significant character and star of act 2, Joe. Several tunes from the London production were replaced with new songs, like "Last Man In My Life" was swapped out for the earworm "Unexpected Song," which is possibly the greatest of the new material, highlighting Emma's love for Joe. A song from the London production, "Nothing Like You I've Ever Known," was included for some reason, even though it wasn't in the Broadway show. Thankfully, we get to hear Bernadette Peters' fine rendition of it.

Bernadette Peters' British accent is best described as somewhat natural yet studied during the speaking parts, but her singing in a British accent feels a bit of a stretch, considering Brits rarely sing in their own accent. During the recording sessions, Peters was ill and requested they wait until she was well. Despite this, she is in fine voice, and her performance feels very much like she's on stage singing to an audience throughout. The orchestrations have a somewhat dated mid-1980s vibe, but it works. My main complaint, besides act 2 not being recorded, is that the orchestra sounds metallic and small rather than the lush sound expected from a musical theatre recording. There are also issues with the way the vocals were mixed, and though the recording has supposedly been remastered, there are sections with some distortion on Peters' vocals, mostly during the belting sections.

Song & Dance Original Broadway Poster

Of the three English-language recordings of "Song & Dance" released in the 1980s—the original London cast featuring Marti Webb and the 1984 London Cast recording featuring Sarah Brightman—this one is enjoyable in tandem with the Marti Webb album. Both albums featuring Webb and Brightman include the second act. It's a shame we never got an official recording from either Betty Buckley's run on Broadway or the touring production starring Melissa Manchester, as they would have been lovely additions to the "Song & Dance" discography.

Click the link below to listen to this incredible cast recording.