THE WIZARD OF OZ - Andrew Lloyd Webber's New Production (2011)

Bring us to a land far, far away – maybe somewhere over the rainbow, perhaps?

Even though we aren’t able to travel to Oz with English musical theatre composer Andrew Lloyd Webber’s latest production here in Singapore, we are blessed to go on this magical adventure by listening to the enchanting songs on this album.

Based on the 1939 film of the same name, Lloyd Webber has employed the delights and wonders of theatrics to captivate audiences with his adaptation of the well loved tale in London’s West End earlier this year. While we have no idea whether we will ever get to see this musical production, we will have to make do with this 25 track album of the London Palladium Recording.

The 60 minute album features songs written by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg from the original film, as well as new songs and additional music by Lloyd Webber and his long time collaborator Tim Rice.

For those who have seen the original film, most of the songs on this disc will not be unfamiliar. From the affecting Academy Award winning “Over the Rainbow”, to the jolly ensemble piece “Ding! Dong! The Witch is Dead” and the catchy “Follow the Yellow Brick Road”, you may find yourself singing along to these classic tunes. The comical “If I Only Had a Brain”, “If I Only Had a Heart” and “If I Only Had the Nerve” will re introduce you to the loveable characters Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion.

How can we forget Dorothy, the heroine of the story? Played by Danielle Hope, who was chosen from the many hopefuls in the BBC television programme Over the Rainbow, the 19 year old has a bright and soothing voice which will bring pleasure to your ears. English singer Michael Crawford (you’d know him as The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera) puts his scarily powerful vocals to good use in “Bring Me the Broomstick” as the title role of The Wizard. Hannah Waddingham displays a gleeful malevolence performing “Red Shoes Blues” as The Wicked Witch of the West.

New numbers on this album written by Lloyd Webber and Rice include the folksy “Nobody Understands Me”, the hilarious “The Wonders of the World” and the heartfelt standout track “Already Home”.

 By the time Dorothy reaches Kansas in “Finale”, it’s almost like you have gone on a thrilling Technicolour adventure without even leaving your home. 

ALBUM RATING:

Recommended Track: (24) Already Home

Review by John Li

Posted on 23 May 2011