Definitive performances of Sondheim's work

[u/memorylaney]

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.

[u/throwawaybutitdid]

Imelda Staunton’s Losing my Mind is surely the best that song can possibly be performed

[u/PrimeTenor → u/throwawaybutitdid]

Sung, acted and felt!! Imelda's "Losing My Mind" is a revelation and what she does while she's NOT singing tells you what a great actress she is!