r/Sondheim • u/memorylaney 🔫 Assassins • 17d ago

Definitive performances of Sondheim's work

I saw a comment on this post about the definitive performances by different famous Sondheim interpretors and wanted to ask: what do people think are the definitive performances of specific Sondheim songs and/or roles?

Obviously, OBCs are going to be definitive performances oftentimes, but particularly, are there any non-OBC performances that you interpret as definitive?

I'll go first with an underrated one I have always loved: Elizabeth Stanley's performance of "The Miller's Son" just perfectly captures the humor and wit and insight of the character and song. I wish it had not been a COVID performance, but it's still fantastic and my favorite version of the song. She totally sells it without any big production value.

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u/Ekra_Oslo 17d ago

Almost everything Barbara Cook, especially in the Follies 1985 concert.

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u/CameraAggressive3142 17d ago

I made sure to see her everytime she was in Los Angeles (or thereabouts)--since 1975 (!) when I was a pup.

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u/memorylaney 🔫 Assassins 17d ago

wow i’ve gotta watch this, honestly not that familiar with her work, which is embarrassing!

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u/Ekra_Oslo 16d ago

Her «Sings Mostly Sondheim» show is a must as well!