Carnival – Original London Cast 2001

It was a no-brainer that such a successful show would receive a London production, and so it did in 1963, opening at the Lyric Theater in February, after playing short engagements in Leeds and Glasgow. Champion's staging was recreated by his long-time associate, Lucia Victor, and the cast included Sally Logan, Michael Maurel, Bob Harris, Shirley Sands, Francis de Wolff, Reg Lever, along with James Mitchell recreating his Broadway role. Just prior to opening, the original London cast recording was made, in hopes that the show would repeat the success it had on Broadway. Alas, that was not to be the case - the show ran only thirty-four performances. Why London didn't embrace the show is anyone's guess. The London cast album is a delight, and features a few little bits not found on the Broadway cast album. Merrill's words and music shine, as do the performances - it's just a wonderful score, musically and lyrically, and wonderfully presented. Track Listing Opening / Direct From Vienna Very Nice Man I've Got To Find A Reason The Sword, The Rose, and The Cape Mira (Can You Imagine That) Humming Yes, My Heart Everybody Likes You Golden Delicious Fish / Theme From Carnival (Love Makes The World Go Round) Yum Ticky, Ticky, Tum, Tum The Rich Beautiful Candy Her Face Grand Imperial Cirque de Paris I Hate Him It Was Always You It Was Always You (reprise) She's My Love Finale: Cirque de Paris (reprise)