Has anyone else seen this production? Apparently it was recorded for PBS or a home video release or something. A friend of mine, also a showtunejunkie, loaned me a recorded copy, and I hate to admit it but I'm totally impressed by Michael Crawford's performance. Not only is he dramatically and vocally perfect, but he's literally doing a million circus tricks as well - he sings while walking a tightrope, spins on a rope, does some clowning, and all kinds of stuff. I didn't even know this existed. If anyone cares, it's great -- and I'm not a big Crawford fan most of the time.
Just being a dork, felt like talking about this:)
Barnum on Amazon.com
Broadway Legend Joined: 12/31/69
I have it on DVD and I think it is pretty good. I think Jim Dale did a much better version of it on Broadway. I would love to see a big splashy broadway revival.
"I would love to see a big splashy broadway revival."
And, as discussed here previously, Hugh Jackman would be perfect.
I actually prefer Crawford. I thought the Broadway production was purgatory.
The DVD is amongst my most favorite performances captured on tape, Crawford's brilliant in it!
Barnum's a show I'd love to see brought back to Broadway one of these days, though the list of stars that could pull off that part is awfully short.
Broadway Legend Joined: 5/16/03
Unlike Michael Crawford, Jim Dale starred in BARNUM without upstaging other cast members, talking over their songs, and hogging the spotlight. Plus Dale's son made out with my sister at a Barnum Christmas party.
His performance prompted me to write my first and only fan letter. He sent me back a charming letter, that man oozes charm. When a friend of mine saw him in the lobby of "The Comedians" about a year ago, she told him her best friend once wrote him a fan letter, to which he replied, "Oh, DO give her my best." tee-hee, those Brits!
He was perfection in this role, and man, Hugh would be great as well!
I never had the chance to see Dale, but the Crawford DVD is one of my favorites.
Musicman, from everything I've read, the English Barnum cast was a very happy family. Maybe you would like Crawford better if he had a son
I loved Jim Dales performance in Barnum. The production was a joy, especially Glen Close's performance as Mrs Barnum. Comparitively I find Michael Crawfords performance horrible. He over acts, mugs and in general ruins the show.
Broadway Legend Joined: 5/16/03
Happy family or not, Crawford's indulgences are self-evident on the DVD.
And one Crawford is plenty, thanks.
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