The Jazz Train (original London Cast)

Original London Cast

The Jazz Train' was "A Musical Dedicated To The Negro People", but was not a conventional book musical and more akin to an elaborate cabaret. Each section of the "train" (the "coaches"), represented a different period or stage in the evolution of black American popular music as seen through the eyes of Mervyn Nelson, the director and devisor of the show. It transferred from New York (where it had been seen in a night-club) into London's Piccadilly Theatre in April 1955 introducing the great Bertice Reading to British audiences singing the tale of Frankie and Johnny and impersonating Bessie Smith. Energy and excitement abounded in 'The Jazz Train' and it was not a show for those wanting a quiet night out.To complement the six tracks recorded from The Jazz Train the CD continues with some unusual Bertice Reading songs, and performances by other black singers, who, like Bertice, found their careers blossomed in Britain. We have included tracks recorded in London in the 1950s by Elisabeth Welch and Marie Bryant. The Peters Sisters are represented by a selection of songs recorded in Paris while they were head-lining at the Folies Bergè.The 16 page CD booklet contains production shots and photos of some of the performers featured here.

Price: $23.98

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