Original London Cast: Once On This Island, CD

The Original London production of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens wonderful Musical. The authors declared that this recording is more authentic than the Broadway Cast recording because the London Cast features genuine Caribbean actors whereas the Broadway Cast had more actors with the African ancestry. "1995 winner of the prestigious Society of London Theatres Olivier Awards for: Best Musical. Once On This Island, an unconventional Broadway Musical is part primitive folk myth and part romantic tragedy. It tells of love and sacrifice in a relationship doomed by racism. Loosely based around the idea of "The Little Mermaid" by Hans Christian Andersen. Once On This Island acquired a new cultural slant in an exotic, colourful setting, highly charged with vigorous Caribbean music, dance rhythms and magic. Playing originally on Broadway in October 1990 and running for 487 performances the show opened in to London in 1994 where a further success ensued. A rousing and fun score make this recording and joy to listen to from beginning to end. Included in this recording is the special bonus mix of "The Human Heart" sung by American born pop star P.P. Arnold (who has toured with the likes of Tina Turner and The Rolling Stones) which narrowly missed its release as a chart single. Digital Dolby Surround effects are used to the full in this recording and give a graphic demonstration of the ambience and reality that this system can bring to the musical genre."