Amazon.com: The best thing about this CD is the score: Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields's songs have lost none of their incisiveness over the years, and even a lackluster revival such as this one doesn't entirely succeed in dulling their edge. In the title role, Christina Applegate means well and tries hard, which isn't enough to make us forget Gwen Verdon, the powerhouse original Charity. Even "There's Gotta Be Something Better Than This," a showstopping number if there ever was one, shines like a 40-watt bulb when it should be 400. As Charity's paramour Oscar, Denis O'Hare gives a wonderful, multifaceted performance, though of course Oscar doesn't get songs--except for the welcome addition of "A Good Impression." While this production is adequate but no match for the original recording, fans will be delighted by the bonus tracks. Backed by a small ensemble, Coleman sings four 1963 demos, including an intimate, delightful "I'm the Bravest Individual." The composer also pairs with Fields for a live version of "Big Spender" recorded in 1972. --Elisabeth Vincentelli
Customer Reviews
Average Rating:
Rating: - Nice Revival
Christina Applegate is a totally endearing, multi-faceted performer, but there is no way you can forget Gwen Verdon, or to a lesser degree, Shirley MacLaine in the so-so movie. However, I love revival ... Read More
Rating: - A Sweet Attempt at a New Charity....
To begin, I saw this show twice before it bowed out at the Al Hirschfeld theatre. I had no intention of seeing it, but unfortunately, nothing else was available.
Rating: - a Bittersweet Charity
Why do TV stars with little or no singing ability try to do a big Broadway musicial?
I gave Christina Applegate's version of Sweety Charity a chance. I love the previous versions of Charity ... Read More
Rating: - annoying and really overrated.
everyone goes on and on about how great the new revival of sweet charity is. well i found it AWFUL. Christina Apelgate(i know thats not how you spell it..) is EXTREMELY annoying and "poppy", and this is what ... Read More
Rating: - Charming
Although vocally not as strong as previous Charity Hope Valentine's and of course no one can or should compare Christina Applegate to Gwen Verdon, Christina exudes charm throughout this recording. David Hare ... Read More
- Nice Revival
- A Sweet Attempt at a New Charity....
- a Bittersweet Charity
- annoying and really overrated.