Kiss of the Spider Woman: The Musical - Original Cast (CD 1993)

Let's begin with full disclosure: I've never seen or heard anything by Kander and Ebb that I didn't like!!!!
I'm also a movie freak who is always a little hesitant to see a beloved movie taken to another medium, because the shift of medium makes changes necesssary that sometimes are hard to accept. The movie, starring Raul Julia and Willima Hurt, was a masterpiece...but even the most ardent admirer must admit that, taken verbatim to the musical stage, it would make for a very grim evening at the theater. The lyrics provide a wonderful transition of the character development from the screen, and the music manages to capture the essence of the themes of the movie.
Assuming that the songs for the title role were written with Chita Rivera in mind, K&E fans can see that the role is expanded from the part as portrayed by Sonia Braga in the film. Chita is a national treasure, and she enthralls us with her passion on this CD despite the fact that we listeners cannot see her perform the musical numbers. (Further disclaimer: I've already booked my tickets to Chita's performance of the final Kandre & Ebb musical, "The Visitor", in late May...at last I'll get to see her perform live!)
Listeners expecting "Caberet" or "Chicago" by buying this Kandrer & Ebb musical, or purchasing a Chita Rivera CD expecting "West Side Story" or "Bye Bye Birdie" might be surprised at first hearing - but this is a powerful musical that serious musical theater lovers will listen to over and over. Bravo!