Review: DOCTOR ZHIVAGO Original Broadway Cast Recording

It may have lasted a mere six weeks on Broadway earlier this year but Doctor Zhivago is not a brand new production, having originally debuted in California in 2006. Then followed an Australian touring production in 2011, Seoul in 2012 and the show had its Scandinavian premiere in 2014. Regrettably after failing to be nominated for any Tony Awards and a slump in ticket sales, the New York production did not last as long as hoped. This is not, however, a testament to its quality.

On July 31st this year, Broadway Records released the Original Broadway Cast Recording of Doctor Zhivago starring British actor Tam Mutu in the title role. The creative team behind this production is impressive, including director Des McAnuff, composer Lucy Simon, lyrics by Michael Korie and Amy Powers and book by Michael Weller. Furthermore, the recording itself has been produced by Robert Sher who has been nominated for a Grammy no less than six times. This level of expertise is evident upon listening to the cast featured on this CD.

Based on the 1957 novel by Boris Pasternak, the plot is vastly political but amongst the backdrop of the Russian Civil War, it is ultimately a love story - even if this is an entanglement whereby three men love one woman and two women love one man! The music captures the setting perfectly throughout. There is an epic feel from the get-go and what follows are meticulous, melodic orchestrations by Danny Troob based on Simon's composition and some stunning vocal arrangements and choral work.

In general, the music has a fairly contemporary musical theatre style about it. There are dashes of Eastern European culture showcased in the folky tones of the music, none more so than during 'It's A Godsend' led by Paul Alexander Nolan as Pasha, singing upbeat about his new wife Lara, played by the beautiful Kelli Barrett. However, when assuming his new identity in Act Two, he turns sinister upon finding out about Lara's affiliation with Yurii Zhivago during 'No Mercy At All'. The military proceedings are well documented through the drumming sequences during 'Forward' which has a somewhat traditional feel to it.

Barrett's faultless soprano voice is rich alongside the music during 'Somewhere My Love' and shines when singing with the equally superb Mutu during the rousing 'Now' and quintet 'Love Finds You'; a personal highlight on the album. Barrett is also very complementary alongside Lora Lee Gayer playing Zhivago's wife Tonia in 'It Comes As No Surprise'.

A stunningly executed album with plenty of heart.

Doctor Zhivago: Original Broadway Cast Recording is currently available from www.broadwayrecords.com or across all major retailers.

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