Show Boat (1988 Studio Cast Highlights)
This one-disc reduction of John McGlinn'smonumental three-CD versionofShow Boatprovides 75 minutes of highlights in a package dubbed the "Broadway Show Album." McGlinn reconstructs the show as it ran on opening night, November 15, 1927, including the original orchestrations, and conducts a dynamic London Sinfonietta and a strong cast includingFrederica von Stadeas Magnolia,Jerry Hadleyas Ravenal,Teresa Stratasas the tragic Julie,Bruce Hubbardas the worldly-wise Joe, Karla Burns as Queenie, and David Garrison andPaige O'Haraas the comic couple Frank and Ellie. And of course the songs by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II are among the most glorious ever written: "Ol' Man River," "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man," "Make Believe," "Why Do I Love You," "Bill," "You Are Love," and "Life upon the Wicked Stage." John McGlinn's full version is a staggering achievement and a recording for the ages, but this single disc is also splendid listening.--David Horiuchi