The star is Ann Sothern, well to known to American audiences for her 'Maisie' series of films and her own popular television show; playing the role originated by Danny Kaye is Carleton Carpenter (best known for his duet 'Abba dabba dabba....' The Director is Max Liebman, a major influence on American taste in the fifties and the Orchestrations by Irwin Kostal. The recording is derived from a Kinescope (Telefilm) made during the performance and while it is not of the same aural standard as today¹s digitally recorded material, the quality is extraordinarily good considering its age.

Following the published score, the sections have been divided into four Dream Sequences, together with a Conclusion - and each of the numbers can be accessed separately. Dialogue is kept to a minimum, with just enough to give the flavour of the stage production. In addition to the recorded production, there are Gertrude Lawrence¹s performances (in perfect sound!) together with MacDonald Carey of the Original Broadway Cast.

The Notes do not give the usual history of the stage production but more interestingly, how the Television presentation was done. The cast lists of both the Revival and the Broadway productions is included. Until a new, Digital Recording can be made - this version will be a 'must' for Musical Theatre fans.

The CD has 31 tracks and runs for 72 minutes.

Review by David Cunard