A highlights CD is available, featuring Stephen Weller as Joseph, and Peter Gallagher as Treves. The CD has ten songs - seven of which are from Act One, and only three from Act Two. This made it fairly easy to follow what was happening for the first half of the show, but I'm not entirely certain for the second half. Thankfully, in this version, Joseph is referred to by his proper name! This production does use prosthetic makeup, which doesn't exactly look like Joseph, but gives a decent suggestion at any rate. Stephen Weller does an excellent job in his portrayal - he has a very sweet, clear tenor voice, which is perfect for Josephs character. Peter Gallagher makes an excellent, conflicted Treves, ambitious as usual, and questioning his own motivation in helping Joseph, but generally trying to do the right thing. The sideshow manager (called 'Harper' in this version) wasn't a character I particularly enjoyed. He's portrayed as quite crude and uncaring - I believe he met Joseph in the workhouse.
The song list for the CD is as follows:
1. The Bell - I'm assuming this was the opening number, about life in the workhouse.
2. You Can Believe in Me (Harper & Merrick) - Joseph debates wether or not to go into the sideshow. This song is very lovely, and I was delighted to note that several lines of Josephs favorite poem (in real life) were included!
3. Life's a Bitch (Harper) - I didn't really care much for this number. It just didn't seem to go anywhere for me.
4. Echoes of Hell (Treves) - the doctors reaction to meeting Joseph, questioning Josephs fate, and his own. A bit cold, but he seems to work it out by his next song.
5. Pigs will Fly - The people involved with the sideshow are upset by the authorities trying to shut them down - very upbeat number.
6. Isn't it Strange (Mrs. Treves) - her reaction to Joseph. She feels a connection with him, and is drawn to help him. A very lovely solo.
7. Face to Face (Carr-Gomm, Treves, and Ensemble) - debating what is to be done for Joseph, and generally a question about all those in his position. Very touching, and I tend to find it running through my head! I believe this was the end of Act One.
8. Only Forever (Mrs. Kendal) - solo by the actress, Mrs. Kendal. I do have a hard time picturing her as a pop singer!
9.Who's the greater fool? (Millie) - the sideshow managers girlfriend is angry after finding out he's been using her, and decides to leave him.
10. Shadows of Evening (Merrick) - this solo is absolutely beautiful! It brings tears to my eyes, and I could not imagine a better song for this character! By far, the price of the CD was worth it for this song!
Sounds clips are available on the musicals website (that part is not being updated!) I've noted though that the song 'Picture This' featured on the site is not actually on the CD! I recommend taking a moment to listen to the clips. Links to purchase the CD can be found on the site - if you purchase from Dress Circle in London, a portion of the proceeds will go to charity. Some information can also be found on Stephen Weller's website, as well as a few pictures of him in the show.