Based on the life of Colette, this
musical had its start in 1982 on a “out of town” production, starring Diana
Rigg in the title role, which never made it to Broadway. Two more versions of
the show were produced and the last one, in 1991, was titled COLETTE COLLAGE
and sub-titled “two musicals about Colette”. That’s the one that was turned in
this delightful studio cast recording.
For me, this is Harvey Schmidt
& Tom Jones (11O IN THE SHADE, THE FANTASTIKS) best work. With terrific
orchestration by Larry Moore, this is a rich score, with some haunting ballads
(“Joy”. “I Miss You”), funny musical numbers like “Two Claudines”, “Riviera
Nights” or “Ooh-La-La” and beautiful songs (“Be My Lady”, “The Room Is Filled
With You”).
The cast couldn’t be better! Judy
Blazer as the young Colette and Judy Kaye as the older Colette sound perfectly
in their roles and both shine in her numbers. Jason Graae is at his best and
Jonathan Freeman has the opportunity to show his big talent.
A highly rewarding recording, it
deserves to be part of every musical lover’s library.
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