A score full of magic and heart
Steven H. David | 09/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have been a fan of this show since the Goodspeed production and am very happy to finally have it recorded. The songs convey both the fantasy aspects of the original novel and the emotional inner core of each character. Songs effectively move forward the plot and define the characters while being satisfying musical pieces on their own. The lyrics are both clever and touching. The simple yet effective arrangements support the singers and bring out the exciting inner harmonies without overwhelming the singers. Listening to this CD will be a thrill for anyone who longs to hear a good modern book musical with heart."
Worth owning
J. Hochhauser | NYC | 07/30/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is a sweet & unusual musical that I've been a fan of since seeing a regional production a few years back. Very touching but not sappy, the wonderful cast really captures the spirit of the show. So glad it's been recorded."
Magical
alpsboy | New York, NY USA | 07/29/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Peter Beagle's novel "A Fine and Private Place" is something of a miracle - perhaps the most perfect example of magic realism ever written in English. It is treasured and beloved by readers for good reason. The only other novel I can think of that weaves a mesmerizing spell in such a unique and delicate manner is "Le Grand Meaulnes" by Henri Alain-Fournier. How equally miraculous, then, to find that this musical captures the intricate verbal harmonies of the novel in such a profoundly moving way. Erik Haagensen's lyrics and book carry just the right amount of winsome angst and forthright emotional power - at times surprisingly blunt -- at other times gently poetic - and always perfectly crafted, balanced, and honed. Richard Isen's supple score weaves beautiful and haunting motifs to tantalize us with the desires, fears, and triumphs of these achingly human characters. The cast soars with this material: Barre, albeit in only a few spoken moments, is charismatically wry as the Raven; Goff is warm and poignant as Rebeck; Baron totally and amazingly embodies Klapper in song and word; Silliman offers a heartbreaking and yearning portrayal of Laura; Sutherland is vulnerable and utterly charming as Morgan. The album itself is clearly recorded with full-bodied sound. Pounce!
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Track Listings (24) - Disc #1