This review is later than expected - not unusual for me - but for a different reason. I couldn't stop playing the CD which I was supposed to be reviewing - Broadway Masterworks' Chaplin: The Musical.

The musical, written by relative unknown Christopher Curtis, is, of course, a new musical depicting the life of film icon Charlie Chaplin. The book comes from good stock - three-time Tony Award-winner Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray), and the recording is produced by Grammy-winning David Lai. And it sounds it.

From the slums of London to the heights of Hollywood, Chaplin is the showbiz Broadway musical about the silent film legend the world couldn’t stop talking about. The brand new 24-person musical reveals the man behind the legend, the undeniable genius that forever changed the way America went to the movies. It stars Rob McClure in the title role, and Christiane Noll as Hannah Chaplin, one of my favourite Broadway actresses.

This is a remarkable score, telling the story of a remarkable man. There are echoes of other great Broadway scores in there, from Mack and Mabel to My Favorite Year. The music flows well, and there is no doubt that credit must be given to the orchestrations by Larry Hochman. There are some stunning ensemble numbers, and some equally stunning solo performances. The styling of the numbers works well, from the London streets to Hollywood. Mention must be given to Erin MacKey as Oona O'Neill and Jenn Colella as Hedda Hopper who add so much vocally to this album. 'What Only Love Can See' and 'All Falls Down' are two of the highlights of the album - two very different numbers, but put over by them beautifully.

But McClure is the undoubted star of this recording - just listen to 'Where are all the People' and 'The Life That you Wished For' if you need any convincing. A truly memorable recording, from yet another short-lived Broadway show.

10

Ian Gude