Lament 2007

The two CD set of "Lament-The Musical" is brimming with lush orchestrations and soaring vocals. What's different about this musical's CDs is that all the show's instrumentals are also included. Composer/Arranger Philip Close's grand style appeals to a large audience of both Broadway and classical music enthusiasts. Often compared to Danny Elfman, Close brings his own style, at times dark and mysterious, but always with a classical precision. Composer, lyricist and playwright C. Lee Cusenbary moves the story along briskly with poetic lyrics and classic themes, such as destiny, true love, and redemption. "Lament-The Musical" is based on the true story of the conspiracy to overthrow Charles I, the King of England, in 1648. Charles' daughter, Elizabeth, is caught in the middle of the plot when her hand in marriage is promised to the Prince of Portugal. She turns to her true love, Will, to help her save her father and the monarchy. While dramatic, the story is also full of hope. In addition to his stage experience playing leads in West Side Story and Godspell, Cusenbary's acoustic singer/songwriter past shines through in "Dare to Dream," where he plays the guitar and sings to a young character who has lost hope. For a detailed story outline on the internet, go to Lamentthemusical.com, and select "Liner Notes."