Description
Following the critically acclaimed release of 'Lost West End Vintage' (highlighted in The Sunday Times as an 'Essential New Release') and 'Lost West End Vintage 2', Stage Door continue their 'Lost West End' album series with 'Lost West End Revues'.
This 2-disc set celebrates London's forgotten revue shows of the 1940s, 50s and 60s, compiling songs from 35 West End productions and showcasing these unique musical works from the golden age of British theatrical entertainment.
Ranging from 1940 to 1962, the selections featured include a broad range of musical styles and genres, from witty numbers satirising topical issues of the era to dramatic ballads and entertaining comedy numbers, all showcasing the art of revue. Many prolific musical theatre composers feature on the album including Noel Coward, Vivian Ellis, Sandy Wilson, Lionel Bart, Leslie Bricusse, Charles Zwar, Alan Melville and more.
Presented as a Deluxe Edition 2CD set; 'Lost West End Revues' features over 50 tracks (including over 20 tracks appearing on CD for the first time) from London cast recordings to pop covers and live recordings. The album includes recordings by a glittering ensemble of star performers including Maggie Smith, Kenneth Williams, Hermione Gingold, Noel Coward, Beatrice Lillie, Joyce Grenfell, Anthony Newley, Gillian Lynne, Fenella Fielding, Sheila Hancock, Millicent Martin, Bud Flanagan, Dora Bryan, Cyril Ritchard, Bernard Cribbins and more.
Although the revue show is no longer a staple fixture in the West End, this album celebrates the forgotten art and affirms the 'lost' revues featured are well worth rediscovering.