This 1995 studio cast-album of highlights from MISS SAIGON is a fantastic CD. It features a superb cast, drawn from MISS SAIGON productions worldwide, as well as a fantastic orchestra. Heading this recording as the beautiful young Kim is Joanna Ampil. Ampil originated the role of Kim in the Sydney production and then went on to take over the role in London. Her voice is oddly-similar to Lea Salonga's, though her style is quite different. Joanna Ampil is fetching in all her numbers, though her "I'd Give My Life for You" is her crowning glory. Peter Cousens originated the role of Chris in the Sydney production before being lured to London to take the title role in PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. Cousens has a rich, soulful voice, most evident in "Why God Why?". His duets with Ampil in "Sun and Moon" and "The Last Night of the World" are magical. Ruthie Henshall is superb as Ellen. Henshall appeared as one of the bar-girls in the London production before being chosen to take over the role of Ellen, which catapulted her to fame in the West End. Henshall's heart-rending "Now That I've Seen Her" gives me chills every time, and her duet with Ampil in "I Still Believe" positively trembles with dramatic tension.
Kevin Gray appeared on Broadway as the Engineer, and he repeats his acclaimed performance for this recording. His snarly, oily delivery is just what the character needs, and his "American Dream" walks the tightrope between comedy and tragedy.
On the whole, MISS SAIGON fans are going to find a lot to love about this recording, featuring a stellar international cast.
1. Overture / Backstage Dreamland
2. Heat Is On In Saigon, The
3. Movie In My Mind, The
4. Why God Why?
5. Sun And Moon
6. Last Night Of The World, The
7. I Still Believe
8. Thuy's Death / You Will Not Touch Him
9. I'd Give My Life For You
10. Bui Doi
11. Kim's Nightmare
12. Now That I've Seen Her
13. American Dream, The
14. Finale
Miss Saigon
