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Top Five Musical Theatre Cast Recordings to Obsess Over
- Hamilton
This one is a no-brainer. Arguably the defining musical of this generation, Hamilton has become a cultural phenomenon. Writer/Star Lin-Manuel Miranda has created a civics lesson unlike any other. Using rap, hip-hop, and R&B to tell the story of the founding of America was a risky venture but having won both the Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it was a risk that surely paid off!
- Rock of Ages
This one is just pure fun! A trip back to the 80’s told through the music of the decade of big hair, acid-washed jeans, and leg-warmers. Hits like “Dead or Alive,” “Nothing But A Good Time” and “Don’t Stop Believing” will be a great nostalgia trip for those of us who grew up in the 80’s or those who just appreciate face melting guitar solos!
- Follies
This 1971 musical composed by Stephen Sondheim tells the story of former showgirls reuniting 30 years after their last performance for one last hurrah before their old theatre is demolished. The score is arguably Sondheim’s best, at once lush, humorous and heart-breaking. James Goldman’s book chronicles love, loss and regrettable choices.
- Ragtime
This epic musical, based on the epic novel by E.L. Doctorow, examines three groups of people in the America of 1906. The era was shifting socially, politically and economically. With a background of the new ragtime sound, these characters deal with an increasingly confusing and changing world. Written by Stephen Flahrety and Lynn Ahrens, with a book by Terrence McNally, Ragtimeis a true journey of a musical.
- She Loves Me
Called by many the perfect musical. Written in 1963 by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick (who the next year would create the masterpiece Fiddler On The Roof, She Loves me is based on the same source material as that of the popular movie You’ve Got Mail. The score is funny, charming, romantic and has not one bad song. It was recently revived on Broadway with Zachary Levi and Jane Krakowski, among others. A truly beautiful show.
