You should also see Glenn's performance of With One Look at ALW's 50th b-day celebration at the Royal Albert Hall. It's on youtube. She just exudes Norma. This part requires an actress. Patti's version, by comparison is very flat and uninspired. She's just sounding the same to me in all her roles, no nuances.
I've been reading these comments and just went to see the Glenn Close performance.
ALW made the right choice in replacing Patti. She's far too young. Glenn acts the part--a silent film star, melodramatic, over the top, a diva...yet her desperate vulnerability is so evident. Patti brings none of that to the part. She's a good singer. But Glenn is a a far superior Norma. btw,I saw Elaine Page and she was great.
this may be a patti L page. but I have hearf ALL the Normas ... and next to Swanson in the movie (not a musical) Glen Close IS NORMA!. God! I pray Madonna Does not do this movie!
@KuroInuSama69 Approaching the role of Norma Desmond in a realistic way, I can clearly say that LuPone's version of Norma is more suitable in terms of singing range and of course stage acting. Most importantly she sings the notes in the original key. On the other hand Close lost the subtlety of the role, exaggerating it which caused the character to become more challenging for the audience. I would indeed prefer LuPone's version although I have respect for Close's work.
luv all the debate on Patti & Glenn. but we all know if they finally do make the movie version ALW will go for Streisand who, I think, has always wanted for his Norma. he knew Streisand would never do broadway again but he wrote it with Barbra's voice in mind. watching the 'live' performance of Streisand doing this song and it's clear who ALW had in mind when he wrote 'Sunset Blvd'.
Patti is a great singer, there is no doubt. However, I know Glenn Close is a better Norma because she became Norma through both her acting and her singing, which is pretty damn good and which suited the role. Watching this, all I can think of is that that's Patti singing the way Patti sings. When I watch Glenn perform any song from Sunset, I see Norma Desmond.
There are times when I agree with you. My personal favorites are Patti, Betty Buckley, Debra Byrne, & Elaine Paige (the best Norma of them all imho), but there is something about Glenn that defies description. It's like the role itself was created for her. She can't compete with Patti, Elaine, & Betty vocal-wise but she acted the hell out of it and that is vindication enough. Few singers can really do justice to this role and I enjoyed nearly every Norma except Petula Clark.
Its not the actor but the director that drives what a show will be like, you cant blame patti lupone for how it turned out in london. she is a powerful performer and has proved herself time and time again.
I dunno, I've loved all the Norma's that hit London but Patti, Elaine and Petula all brought something to the role... LuPone deffo put her stamp on the role but her comments about her time in the musical in her book really pissed me off. :(
@dogatemywookiee I haven't gotten to read her memoir yet, but from I heard she was screwed over by ALW, who replaced her with the Close when they decided to take it to the US (before he even told LuPone) simply because he thought Close's name would pull in more money. If this is true can't say, I really blame her for leaving nasty comments in her book.
@sabrinafair2 Yeah but she's an employee on a contract if they're in breach of contract she goes legal, plus she got paid out of her contract for Broadway. Her need for 'loyalty' in a business like this is a bit naive for someone whose superb and been round playing the game for so long. The Sunset Blvd chapter just upset me, I grew up with Sunset, I saw EVERY Norma on the West End and her comments about the final performance... SEETHING. Slags off another actor, well cast.
@sabrinafair2 she doesnt have nasty comments about Glenn in her book. she basically expresses how bad she felt and how Glenn never called her after what happened.
I'm sorry, I tried to be open-minded, but Patti Lupone really does not do this song justice. Who cares about a key change when you can have the emotional pay-off? This was just NOT the role for Patty Lupone.
Patti's amazing. So what if she got several bad reviews from New York? ALW was a crazy bitch about it. plus, Glenn Close didn't even sing the songs in the original keys, they lowered them for her, while Patti sung them in the original keys and sounded amazing.
Strange,although I feel Glenn Close's version is closer to the character as Billy Wilder envisioned Norma Desmond, Patti Lupone's inerpretation comes accross as a seamless enhancement of the Gloria Swanson performance. Which is the superior one I cannot decide.
i'm sorry guys but..... PATTI LUPONE IS THE BEST NORMA EVER!! ANDREW MADE A HUUUGGGEEE MISTAKE BY FIRING HER AND REPLACING HER IN BROADWAY! what an asshole...... it was her right to play Norma in broadway.. and come on she had a contract!!
Ugh...horrible! Love me some Patty LuPone...don't get me wrong...but she should have NEVER played this role! She always sounds exactly the same...no matter what she does...gets old after a while!
have seen this several times and it still takes my breath away. Miss LuPone should most definately do the movie version. forget Glenn Close and Streisand. this IS the lady who owns the songs. thanks again for sharing this performance!
the original show was fantastic yes but as been proven is a smal ensenble peice, i saw miss lu pone and she was amazing! and yes have sen other normans, just wish miss lupone was given the chance to evolve the part, Pattii u wil always be number 1 to me xx
I still think Betty Buckley sings this the best.. I love LuPone singing Les Miserables. She is softer than Buckley on the delivery and I see Norma as biting and edgier and bossy... Which of course Lupone can be no doubt... but just not as Norma
Glenn Close...talent..Betty..she's great..but please Patti Lupone fired from this part? ALW you dipchit. Really??? Ms Close..I love her..but omg. under estimate USA audience? I am the people in the dark. Ok that's over..Whats next?
@Jigglesw --Sorry to correct you, 'jigglesw', but she was fired. Read her autobiog.......just recently out. She read about her 'firing' in Liz Smiths column......had batting practice in her dressing room, using a lamp as a bat, and walked. She was ah mazing in this role. Truly amazing.
@doug18020 I don't know why anyone would debate the firing. And it was a significant statement that Webber sought to replace her with a more expensive star . Fanatical LuPone fans [and I am one since Gypsy but NOT before] rewrite history like Republicans. Her reviews from American critics were the worst of her career. When I heard she was to play Norma I immediately said to my friends "Either this will be the biggest flop and not come to NY or she will be replaced".
@pudgeuncle I wasn't debating LuPone's firing. Fact, as she recited her memories. Further, it was Paramount who forced Webber to replace her. I am NOT a Lupone fan, (although I did like her 'Fantine') I did not see her 'Norma', (other than the pre west end complete version, which is on here). I did, however, see 3 Norma's and in my opinion Karen Mason was the best. I saw her,Close and Paige, and also the vids of LuPone.. Technically better than all of them, in my opinion.
@doug18020 I wasn't referring to you. I was making a general statement since many LuPone fans try to tell a different story. I love Karen Mason. I wish I had seen her. Her voice is so rich and expressive.
@Jigglesw: hey doug18020 is correct she was fired. How unfortunate I could not get to see in NY. The show was top notch however and I'll always have the London Original Cast CD
@dipchit42 I did see the show in NYC..just not with Ms Lupone. Once again the shows with Glenn and Betty were great. I love this show, I just wish went to London to see it. That little putz Webber made a mistake in my opinion.
This is a great version but the difference between Patti LuPone's interpretation and Glenn Close's interpretation is that Patti sings the words while Glenn lives the words. One word: Conviction.
@broadwaybabi91 Thank you. People need to constantly be reminded that a You Tube clip is never a suitable substitute for seeing the entire performance. I wish that all of the people who, for example, rave about Bernadette Peters in Gypsy had a actually seen the show. Thank God LuPone did play Rose so soon afterwards to mediate the damage.
I thought I was the only one who thought Patti was the best Norma - I'm glad to see there are others out there who appreciate her genius. Yes, Glenn Close is a great actress but this part needs the actress AND the singer and I'm sorry but Patti had it all over Glenn.
@draymond1024 Patti has EMOTION in her voice, the kind you can't fake. This song almost makes me cry..... You are not the only one who loves her! We are all together. PATTI FOREVER!
As someone who saw Patti Lupone live in the Sunset Blvd in London, I can assure you her performance reigns far superior from those who came AFTER her. There is a reason why she was selected by ALW. For those who live by what newspaper critics write, they panned Les Miserables and Miss Saigon. So think before you write.
@gmr9233 It is not reasaonable to compare the less than raves which Les Miserables and Miss Saigon received to the vitriolic pans LuPone received for this performance. The New York Times and Wall St. Journal combined spent a total of SIXTEEN paragraphs ripping the skin from LuPone's bones. She did not deserve such wrath.
@gmr9233 lol... well if you knew the way it worked, if ALW felt she was the better Norma, no way in hell would they have broken contract so Glenn Close could open Broadway! So being that as it may, the superior Norma was selected to open Broadway...now don't get me wrong Patti Lupone is a goddess in all she does, but Glenn far surpasses any Norma to date in the whole package, especially acting! No she wasnt the best vocally, though phenomenal, but all put together not one comes close
From this clip, it's evident why she was replaced. And you can't rewrite history. After SAVAGE reviews in The Wall St. Journal and The New York Times she HAD to be replaced. 16 paragraphs mauling her performance to shreds.
@roccoh21 As someone who saw Patti Lupone live in the Sunset Blvd in London, I can assure you her performance reigns far superior from those who came AFTER her. There is a reason why she was selected by ALW. For those who live by what newspaper critics write, they panned Les Miserables and Miss Saigon. So think before you write.
I also saw her doing this in London and got to talk with her afterwards. THE most memorable theatre experience ever. I then saw, Betty, Glenn, and Elaine as comparison. While they all had their pros and cons, there is nothing like the original. And SHE, my friends, will always be the original!
Are they making a movie of the musical? Who will play Norma? Lupone should play her, but she made statement she would NEVER work with Andrew L W again :((((((((
I saw Patti Lupone in this role just a few weeks after it opened. To this day, it is still the most electricyfing performance I have EVER seen on stage (and I saw Ian McKellen do Richard III!).
She was utterly miscast. A fact that is widely accepted apart from a few rancid theatre queens who have no taste and think she is the finest thingh since their Jeff Stryker dildo ! x
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She utterly fails to conbey any emotion in her delivery. You get no sense of the complex character ND is. It is no wonder she was sacked - she should never have been hired in the first place. Did she sleep through her classes as Julliard? Plus her voice has a vile grating sound, much akin to a 1980s dishwasher. May have something to do with the size of her nose I guess.
So...where were you trained again? Or are you trained in such matters at all? Not to be insulting, but please tell me that you're not giving criticism based only upon your ideas.
One can't even compare Glenn Close to the Patti....Close can't even carry out the fuul phrase on the climactic parts of this song....u feel like you want to breathe breath into her so she can finish a phrase. on the other hand, PATTI has breath left over at the end of her phrases and finishes her phrases strongly!! Weber was a dumb **** choosing Close over the Patti!!
give it a break gay boys....a singer who can sing this part and act it is good if not great........take your little prissy selves and hoot and holler at the crows above you
I would still go for Elaine Paige... She was the last performer and she NAILED the performance DOWN TO THE VERY BOTTOM...... She has it all.. the acting, expression and most of all... the voice... try listening to here as well...
if Hollywood had any sense (and we all know that ain't gonna ever happen), they would film Sunset Blvd. with LuPone NOW. forget Glenn Close, Streisand. this is THE role LuPone was born to play.
Wrong, unlike her turn as Dolly in which she was too young, this role has Streisand written all over it. This would be a great musical for her to do one final time. The songs are her style, the acting of the aged Diva would be prefect for her. I dont think she is but so many people believe she is , they would buy right into it. I think she is a perfectionist and if wanting things right makes you a diva or a b** so be it, Pride in your work has left America and those that do have it are rare
she's too good in my opinion, Norma shouldn't sound so lovely, after all, it was sound and the developement of the talky films that defeated norma, thus it wouldnt make sense for her to sound so... wonderful
Because Betty Buckley sells, and at this point could get anything she wanted as long as it was in the right age group. That doesn't change the fact that someone who was defeated by sound and so much contempt for speech and dialogue in cinema sound so lovely
I just don't think Patti was right for the part -- It seemed like ALW basically said "You got me rave reviews for 'Evita', maybe you can make my next mediocre show a hit?" And when he saw that she just wasn't knocking it out of the park like before, he (rudely) gave the part to Glenn Close, who I think made a PHENOMENAL Norma.
I think I have to agree with you there, Close is always gonna be the real Norma on stage, tho Swanson is of course the REAL Norma, I don't think Patti really fit this role
Mhmm - Patti's a talented woman, but this is not the role for her. Glenn was (in my, or I guess, OUR eyes), the ultimate stage Norma. Not the best voice, but she made the character so human and real. And then Betty was her typical electric self and made the part unique (And WOW what a voice!)
a 4 year run in London hardly constitutes a flop, nor does record advance sales in New York. Overall the show lost money simply becuase it's running costs were so high. Even when it closed in NEw York it was still making $700,000 a week, but needed to run to 90% capacity constantly to even break even.
You know folks, the reason why Lupone is NOT Norma is because she singing too damn well. Norma should be a bit rough around the edges; she was after all a faded and silent star. Also in the theatre she was a bit cool, rather than mad. Anyway the show was a flop!
I don't thing Glen Close did a bad job with the role, however i think that Pattie blew it out of the water. I mean come on I dont really think to compare the two vocally is fair.
Norma Desmond is only suppose to be 50 for some reason other actresses feel the need to portray her as an "Old" woman ie Glenn Close,Betty Buckley.This was a great production in London with Patti.She made you feel sorry for Norma Desmond.She sang the hell out of the role and didn't over act the part.The whole show became a mess when it went to Broadway.From the direction to the new songs to the over acting and bad singing.
The reviews were mixed.I don't recall anything really bad said about her.More for the show.Although Newsweek had to comment on her "aardvark" nose,which at that point I realized they didn't have anything legit to say.And she was replaced because Warner Bros. who had a stake in the show wanted to go with a "bigger" name that would,in their eyes,make more money.
@MrMusicstone are we still a bit bitter of La LuPone's replacement 17 years ago. Time was just one of many poor reviews. She didn't make the grade, plus it was almost 2 decades ago. LET IT GO!
He did NOT like Glen better....he was FORCED to hire Glen because Paramount Pictures, a co-producer of the show, wanted a more 'high-profile' actress in the lead.....Patti Lupone WILL ALWAYS BE THE BEST NORMA ON STAGE.....the second best is Betty Buckley....
I totally understand...I'm not mad at anyone....I just want everyone to have the correct info regarding how Patti was replaced by Glen....while I do think Glen is an amazing dramatic actress, the role DOES require a STRONG singer, which is what we get in Patti....when the production was moved to the States, of course they had plenty of time to make changes to the score and add songs and fix what needed fixin...I wish Patti would get a chance to do the role in the States...one day I hope....
Which is EXACTLY WHY this would be the PERFECT time to do the role NOW.....when she originally did the role, she was the youngest actress to perform the role.....NOW IS THE TIME SHE SHOULD DO IT....!!!
1st Paramount Pictures not Warner Bros was the co-producer of the show...2nd, Andrew COULD have said NO to Paramount but he needed the MONEY in order to produce this show because it is an ELABORATE show to stage...Therefore Patti feels BETRAYED by Andrew....He choose to deal with a corporate company instead of standing by his friend and leading lady....Andrew should have kept Patti in the show for LA & Broadway like he contracted to....I think she would work with him now that time has passed...
I dont think so. She has said she never wished to discuss Webber and Sunset again in interviews, if you read the book "Closeup on Sunset Boulevard" there is a whole chapter dedicated to that particular incident.
And after she sued him, she used the money to build "The Andrew Lloyd Webber Memorial Pool"
@Paris1832 they portray her older because she has lost her mind and for the time in history that it was 50 was considered very old especially on screen
The role of Norma Desmond is a challenge few actresses are up to but I would love to see Patti LuPone star in the film for once. Glenn Close is OK too. Norma is about 70-80 years old and she is in and out of reality, not only because she was an actress but because her ex-husband/valet Max has protected her all these years. She is from SILENT MOVIES circa 1920s!Norma IS over the top, campy and probably knew Theda Bara personally.
I agree it would be fabulous to see Patti in the film... but that's not going to happen. She's said in many interviews that she would never work with Lloyd Webber again. Good decision.
Stupid A.L.W wanted Glenn. Thats a regetful decision. "Andrew, thanks for the pool". Will he ever learn?? NOTE: i LIKE MOST OF HIS SHOWS, BUT LOVVVVVEEEE Patti!
Simply an AMAZING performer! I wonder why she doesn't have an entire houseful of Tony Awards. I have every original cast recording that features her that I can find. I hope I can get this video. The cello person needs to compliment her voice better, less mechanical playing.SHE IS FABULOUS AS USUAL! I AM A FAN.THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS GREAT PERFORMANCE!
I remember seeing Patti LuPone in Sunset Boulevard in London - about 10 years ago, I think. She got a standing ovation after this song - not often you see a standing ovation in the middle of a show!! I thought she was outstanding in the role. Thanks for posting.
Patti has been robbed twice: she should have won the Tony for "Anything Goes", and she would have won it if she had transferred to b'way in "Sunset". Then, she'd be in the record books with Angela Lansbury for the only 2 actresses ever to win the Best Actress Tony 4 times!!!! Glen was good, but she's an actor not a singer.
Without question, LuPone IS the BEST Norma Desmond on stage!! Her voice and acting perfectly equaled that of Gloria Swanson in the film version!! LuPone should have been in the Broadway production of Sunset and should have won another Tony for her performance!! Thank God for the original London cast recording and the many live performances she did singing songs from Sunset!!
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Her Voice just gives out just too much Strength ... ITS too much.. for Norma.. perfect for mama and Evita...but not for Norma...LEAVE IT TO GLENN who does this role to perfection...
I am a HUGE fan of patti, she's got a mean set of pipes. But her portrayal of Norma lacks one key trait: vulnerability. She makes Norma seem so strong and able, when really she's an emotional trainwreck.
It's interesting to hear your view, since I felt exactly the opposite, especaially when compared with the approach Glenn Close took. I really felt Patti's Norma was subtler and more vulnerable, more hurt inside. A matter of taste, I suppose. :-)
See I feel both I see it in both but I always feel Patti is best at the "Get the F*^% out of my way" acting like with Eva and Mama Rose. Though I see vulnerability in Fatine and Norma.
too bad elaine does NOT even sing it in the same key as PATTI, don't think she could otherwise she would have. cannot not even compare to LA Lupone! the true diva!
I've heard many Normas and Patti still remains my favorite. Brava. She should have taken her Norma to Broadway. Besides her excellent vocals, I really like her take on the character, not being a mere copy of the well known Swanson performance from the movie.
You should also see Glenn's performance of With One Look at ALW's 50th b-day celebration at the Royal Albert Hall. It's on youtube. She just exudes Norma. This part requires an actress. Patti's version, by comparison is very flat and uninspired. She's just sounding the same to me in all her roles, no nuances.
greg1lewin 1 month ago
I've been reading these comments and just went to see the Glenn Close performance.
ALW made the right choice in replacing Patti. She's far too young. Glenn acts the part--a silent film star, melodramatic, over the top, a diva...yet her desperate vulnerability is so evident. Patti brings none of that to the part. She's a good singer. But Glenn is a a far superior Norma. btw,I saw Elaine Page and she was great.
greg1lewin 1 month ago
this may be a patti L page. but I have hearf ALL the Normas ... and next to Swanson in the movie (not a musical) Glen Close IS NORMA!. God! I pray Madonna Does not do this movie!
KuroInuSama69 4 months ago
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@KuroInuSama69 Approaching the role of Norma Desmond in a realistic way, I can clearly say that LuPone's version of Norma is more suitable in terms of singing range and of course stage acting. Most importantly she sings the notes in the original key. On the other hand Close lost the subtlety of the role, exaggerating it which caused the character to become more challenging for the audience. I would indeed prefer LuPone's version although I have respect for Close's work.
NeuwirthFan 1 month ago
patti is great .i saw betty .betty reached a high note that sent a chill down my spine. and here intepitaion made norma more vunerable.not just crazy
maaltma 4 months ago
luv all the debate on Patti & Glenn. but we all know if they finally do make the movie version ALW will go for Streisand who, I think, has always wanted for his Norma. he knew Streisand would never do broadway again but he wrote it with Barbra's voice in mind. watching the 'live' performance of Streisand doing this song and it's clear who ALW had in mind when he wrote 'Sunset Blvd'.
elcabrone 6 months ago
All I have to say is they had to lower the key so Glenn could sing it. It ruins most of the songs. Patti reigns FAR superior!
Jonboi713 6 months ago
Patti is a great singer, there is no doubt. However, I know Glenn Close is a better Norma because she became Norma through both her acting and her singing, which is pretty damn good and which suited the role. Watching this, all I can think of is that that's Patti singing the way Patti sings. When I watch Glenn perform any song from Sunset, I see Norma Desmond.
lovesspicychicken 7 months ago 3
@lovesspicychicken
There are times when I agree with you. My personal favorites are Patti, Betty Buckley, Debra Byrne, & Elaine Paige (the best Norma of them all imho), but there is something about Glenn that defies description. It's like the role itself was created for her. She can't compete with Patti, Elaine, & Betty vocal-wise but she acted the hell out of it and that is vindication enough. Few singers can really do justice to this role and I enjoyed nearly every Norma except Petula Clark.
KateBushDepot 7 months ago
Its not the actor but the director that drives what a show will be like, you cant blame patti lupone for how it turned out in london. she is a powerful performer and has proved herself time and time again.
troi41 7 months ago
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she was also fired by ALW
Bufordguy 7 months ago
I dunno, I've loved all the Norma's that hit London but Patti, Elaine and Petula all brought something to the role... LuPone deffo put her stamp on the role but her comments about her time in the musical in her book really pissed me off. :(
dogatemywookiee 8 months ago
@dogatemywookiee I haven't gotten to read her memoir yet, but from I heard she was screwed over by ALW, who replaced her with the Close when they decided to take it to the US (before he even told LuPone) simply because he thought Close's name would pull in more money. If this is true can't say, I really blame her for leaving nasty comments in her book.
sabrinafair2 7 months ago
@sabrinafair2 Yeah but she's an employee on a contract if they're in breach of contract she goes legal, plus she got paid out of her contract for Broadway. Her need for 'loyalty' in a business like this is a bit naive for someone whose superb and been round playing the game for so long. The Sunset Blvd chapter just upset me, I grew up with Sunset, I saw EVERY Norma on the West End and her comments about the final performance... SEETHING. Slags off another actor, well cast.
dogatemywookiee 7 months ago
@sabrinafair2 she doesnt have nasty comments about Glenn in her book. she basically expresses how bad she felt and how Glenn never called her after what happened.
NeuwirthFan 1 month ago
Patti came out of it a better stronger performer.
McNabIsBack 8 months ago
I like Patti LuPoneand think she has an amazing voice, but ,as Norma Desmond, she's still playing Patti LuPone
dcnrmn 8 months ago
I'm sorry, I tried to be open-minded, but Patti Lupone really does not do this song justice. Who cares about a key change when you can have the emotional pay-off? This was just NOT the role for Patty Lupone.
bendingwillough 8 months ago
Patti's amazing. So what if she got several bad reviews from New York? ALW was a crazy bitch about it. plus, Glenn Close didn't even sing the songs in the original keys, they lowered them for her, while Patti sung them in the original keys and sounded amazing.
ezekielg444 9 months ago
Strange,although I feel Glenn Close's version is closer to the character as Billy Wilder envisioned Norma Desmond, Patti Lupone's inerpretation comes accross as a seamless enhancement of the Gloria Swanson performance. Which is the superior one I cannot decide.
barochial 9 months ago
Yup, I'm bored. There's no spark. Glenn Close has an electricity that's just missing here.
KaitouHotaru 10 months ago
I wish she'd stop yelling at me.
MultiLlort 10 months ago
Patty LuPone has a beautiful voice but she lacks the emotional depth that Glenn Close gave to this piece.
fritzterrific 10 months ago
i'm sorry guys but..... PATTI LUPONE IS THE BEST NORMA EVER!! ANDREW MADE A HUUUGGGEEE MISTAKE BY FIRING HER AND REPLACING HER IN BROADWAY! what an asshole...... it was her right to play Norma in broadway.. and come on she had a contract!!
NeuwirthFan 10 months ago
@NeuwirthFan She is also very difficult to work with.
jgg59 9 months ago
well orchestrated, beautiful. And a winning performance by the most ferocious voice of broadway, shining here through this horrible quality dub.
kittensnspice 11 months ago
Ugh...horrible! Love me some Patty LuPone...don't get me wrong...but she should have NEVER played this role! She always sounds exactly the same...no matter what she does...gets old after a while!
Shroder98 1 year ago
As we debate, let's not remember who truly created the role: GLORIA SWANSON. She will always be the ultimate Norma Desmond, folks.
ThePrettyNerdie 1 year ago 3
have seen this several times and it still takes my breath away. Miss LuPone should most definately do the movie version. forget Glenn Close and Streisand. this IS the lady who owns the songs. thanks again for sharing this performance!
elcabrone 1 year ago
the original show was fantastic yes but as been proven is a smal ensenble peice, i saw miss lu pone and she was amazing! and yes have sen other normans, just wish miss lupone was given the chance to evolve the part, Pattii u wil always be number 1 to me xx
waleshc77 1 year ago
AAAAUUGGHHH! What was that?! Elaine Paige was so so so much better at this song.
MrAlltheworldsastage 1 year ago
@MrAlltheworldsastage Totally agree!
MUSICCGP 1 year ago
Patti becomes any character you want her to be. This makes her amazing!
Wonderxandra 1 year ago 2
I saw Glenn do it on broadway, and while she was generally great, I didn't like her
trilling.
stevie68a 1 year ago
I still think Betty Buckley sings this the best.. I love LuPone singing Les Miserables. She is softer than Buckley on the delivery and I see Norma as biting and edgier and bossy... Which of course Lupone can be no doubt... but just not as Norma
karrezza 1 year ago
Glenn Close...talent..Betty..she's great..but please Patti Lupone fired from this part? ALW you dipchit. Really??? Ms Close..I love her..but omg. under estimate USA audience? I am the people in the dark. Ok that's over..Whats next?
dipchit42 1 year ago
@dipchit42 she wasnt fired she quit because she thought it was awful lol
Jigglesw 1 year ago
@Jigglesw --Sorry to correct you, 'jigglesw', but she was fired. Read her autobiog.......just recently out. She read about her 'firing' in Liz Smiths column......had batting practice in her dressing room, using a lamp as a bat, and walked. She was ah mazing in this role. Truly amazing.
doug18020 1 year ago
@doug18020 I don't know why anyone would debate the firing. And it was a significant statement that Webber sought to replace her with a more expensive star . Fanatical LuPone fans [and I am one since Gypsy but NOT before] rewrite history like Republicans. Her reviews from American critics were the worst of her career. When I heard she was to play Norma I immediately said to my friends "Either this will be the biggest flop and not come to NY or she will be replaced".
pudgeuncle 1 year ago
@pudgeuncle I wasn't debating LuPone's firing. Fact, as she recited her memories. Further, it was Paramount who forced Webber to replace her. I am NOT a Lupone fan, (although I did like her 'Fantine') I did not see her 'Norma', (other than the pre west end complete version, which is on here). I did, however, see 3 Norma's and in my opinion Karen Mason was the best. I saw her,Close and Paige, and also the vids of LuPone.. Technically better than all of them, in my opinion.
doug18020 1 year ago
@doug18020 I wasn't referring to you. I was making a general statement since many LuPone fans try to tell a different story. I love Karen Mason. I wish I had seen her. Her voice is so rich and expressive.
pudgeuncle 1 year ago
@Jigglesw: hey doug18020 is correct she was fired. How unfortunate I could not get to see in NY. The show was top notch however and I'll always have the London Original Cast CD
dipchit42 1 year ago
@dipchit42 I did see the show in NYC..just not with Ms Lupone. Once again the shows with Glenn and Betty were great. I love this show, I just wish went to London to see it. That little putz Webber made a mistake in my opinion.
dipchit42 1 year ago
Glenn Close...talent..Betty..she's great..but please Patti Lupone is the best
dipchit42 1 year ago
This is a great version but the difference between Patti LuPone's interpretation and Glenn Close's interpretation is that Patti sings the words while Glenn lives the words. One word: Conviction.
MikeSings82 1 year ago
@MikeSings82 The thing is, though, you can't fully see Patti's expression in this video, at least not well enough to form a full judgement.
broadwaybabi91 1 year ago
@broadwaybabi91 Yes, that may be true.
MikeSings82 1 year ago
@broadwaybabi91 Thank you. People need to constantly be reminded that a You Tube clip is never a suitable substitute for seeing the entire performance. I wish that all of the people who, for example, rave about Bernadette Peters in Gypsy had a actually seen the show. Thank God LuPone did play Rose so soon afterwards to mediate the damage.
pudgeuncle 1 year ago
I thought I was the only one who thought Patti was the best Norma - I'm glad to see there are others out there who appreciate her genius. Yes, Glenn Close is a great actress but this part needs the actress AND the singer and I'm sorry but Patti had it all over Glenn.
draymond1024 1 year ago
@draymond1024 Patti has EMOTION in her voice, the kind you can't fake. This song almost makes me cry..... You are not the only one who loves her! We are all together. PATTI FOREVER!
01BroadwayMagic 1 year ago 3
As someone who saw Patti Lupone live in the Sunset Blvd in London, I can assure you her performance reigns far superior from those who came AFTER her. There is a reason why she was selected by ALW. For those who live by what newspaper critics write, they panned Les Miserables and Miss Saigon. So think before you write.
gmr9233 1 year ago 15
@gmr9233 It is not reasaonable to compare the less than raves which Les Miserables and Miss Saigon received to the vitriolic pans LuPone received for this performance. The New York Times and Wall St. Journal combined spent a total of SIXTEEN paragraphs ripping the skin from LuPone's bones. She did not deserve such wrath.
pudgeuncle 1 year ago
@pudgeuncle especially as the london critics gave her raves.
edirne1972 10 months ago
@gmr9233 lol... well if you knew the way it worked, if ALW felt she was the better Norma, no way in hell would they have broken contract so Glenn Close could open Broadway! So being that as it may, the superior Norma was selected to open Broadway...now don't get me wrong Patti Lupone is a goddess in all she does, but Glenn far surpasses any Norma to date in the whole package, especially acting! No she wasnt the best vocally, though phenomenal, but all put together not one comes close
MEE051677 7 months ago
@gmr9233 I saw all the Normas and I liked Petula better :)
dogatemywookiee 3 months ago
Why is this so very perfect.
deddesirae 1 year ago
The conductor must have been in a hurry to go and get a beer or something. Ruined it for me, although Pattie was great.
jjaus 1 year ago
From this clip, it's evident why she was replaced. And you can't rewrite history. After SAVAGE reviews in The Wall St. Journal and The New York Times she HAD to be replaced. 16 paragraphs mauling her performance to shreds.
roccoh21 1 year ago
@roccoh21 you are about as dumb as dumb can get!!!!!!!!!!!!
intomybrain12345 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@roccoh21 As someone who saw Patti Lupone live in the Sunset Blvd in London, I can assure you her performance reigns far superior from those who came AFTER her. There is a reason why she was selected by ALW. For those who live by what newspaper critics write, they panned Les Miserables and Miss Saigon. So think before you write.
gmr9233 1 year ago
I also saw her doing this in London and got to talk with her afterwards. THE most memorable theatre experience ever. I then saw, Betty, Glenn, and Elaine as comparison. While they all had their pros and cons, there is nothing like the original. And SHE, my friends, will always be the original!
tig3pooh3 1 year ago
Are they making a movie of the musical? Who will play Norma? Lupone should play her, but she made statement she would NEVER work with Andrew L W again :((((((((
MrMusicstone 1 year ago
yep; best norma ever. stupid debate. its Lupone all the way.
EliseWhatever 1 year ago 2
I saw Patti Lupone in this role just a few weeks after it opened. To this day, it is still the most electricyfing performance I have EVER seen on stage (and I saw Ian McKellen do Richard III!).
interalia1 1 year ago
SImple - she was too young looking.
neworleansrandy 1 year ago
I can't help but smile at the fact that more than fifteen years after the fact people are still debating who was the more capable NORMA and why.
mosshart21 2 years ago 26
My thoughts on the close v lupone argument is that lupone gives a singers performance, and close gives an actors performance (in a nutshell)
PelProRS09 2 years ago 4
She was utterly miscast. A fact that is widely accepted apart from a few rancid theatre queens who have no taste and think she is the finest thingh since their Jeff Stryker dildo ! x
fellatio24 2 years ago
Someone sure knows a lot about theatre fragrottry.
rubino83 2 years ago
"We'll have ully mawning maaad-naaass."
We'll have... what?
AtLastOnTheGround 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
She utterly fails to conbey any emotion in her delivery. You get no sense of the complex character ND is. It is no wonder she was sacked - she should never have been hired in the first place. Did she sleep through her classes as Julliard? Plus her voice has a vile grating sound, much akin to a 1980s dishwasher. May have something to do with the size of her nose I guess.
fellatio24 2 years ago
So...where were you trained again? Or are you trained in such matters at all? Not to be insulting, but please tell me that you're not giving criticism based only upon your ideas.
DpianoMan4 2 years ago 2
One can't even compare Glenn Close to the Patti....Close can't even carry out the fuul phrase on the climactic parts of this song....u feel like you want to breathe breath into her so she can finish a phrase. on the other hand, PATTI has breath left over at the end of her phrases and finishes her phrases strongly!! Weber was a dumb **** choosing Close over the Patti!!
intomybrain12345 2 years ago 4
I don't agree. I like Patti but you can't beat Glenn Close's phenomenal acting.
RShah0 2 years ago
I don't like either one. Elaine Paige is the absolute best...Betty Buckley coming in second.
earlady66 1 year ago
Comment removed
quelayla 2 years ago 3
"Anyone who misses may pah-faw-mance is DEAD! If oi doi it won't be from quittin'. It'll be from tryin to get bettah pawts!"
rubino83 2 years ago
@rubino83 That's a great line...
menashadude 2 years ago
LuPone is fantastic but i still prefer Glen Close
Mrwga 2 years ago
Would you put out for her?
emlodik 2 years ago 2
she is a legend and the ONLY person who plays Norma and sings those songs exactly as it should be.
gavinjreid 2 years ago 3
...Unless you count just about everyone else who did the role. :-P
emlodik 2 years ago
glenn < lupone
michsturg 2 years ago 3
give it a break gay boys....a singer who can sing this part and act it is good if not great........take your little prissy selves and hoot and holler at the crows above you
jeff5761 2 years ago
bigot
bassocantante89 2 years ago
No, he just speaks the truth.
emlodik 2 years ago
I would still go for Elaine Paige... She was the last performer and she NAILED the performance DOWN TO THE VERY BOTTOM...... She has it all.. the acting, expression and most of all... the voice... try listening to here as well...
icze09 2 years ago
You've gotta check out Diahann Carroll in the Canadian cast recording. Amazing! (and I love Ms. Lupone)
encorebc 2 years ago
Diahann was amazing on stage, but practically sleepwalks through the Canadian Recording.
emlodik 2 years ago
if Hollywood had any sense (and we all know that ain't gonna ever happen), they would film Sunset Blvd. with LuPone NOW. forget Glenn Close, Streisand. this is THE role LuPone was born to play.
elcabrone 2 years ago 4
Wrong, unlike her turn as Dolly in which she was too young, this role has Streisand written all over it. This would be a great musical for her to do one final time. The songs are her style, the acting of the aged Diva would be prefect for her. I dont think she is but so many people believe she is , they would buy right into it. I think she is a perfectionist and if wanting things right makes you a diva or a b** so be it, Pride in your work has left America and those that do have it are rare
RRIDLEY100 2 years ago
Did you miss GYPSY?
encorebc 2 years ago
@elcabrone Weber would never allow it, and LuPone would never do it!
Jonboi713 1 year ago
she's too good in my opinion, Norma shouldn't sound so lovely, after all, it was sound and the developement of the talky films that defeated norma, thus it wouldnt make sense for her to sound so... wonderful
Asylum07MasterMadman 2 years ago
..Then why would Betty Buckley get the part? She's probably the best female singer to ever have been on Broadway.
AtLastOnTheGround 2 years ago
Because Betty Buckley sells, and at this point could get anything she wanted as long as it was in the right age group. That doesn't change the fact that someone who was defeated by sound and so much contempt for speech and dialogue in cinema sound so lovely
Asylum07MasterMadman 2 years ago
Point.
I just don't think Patti was right for the part -- It seemed like ALW basically said "You got me rave reviews for 'Evita', maybe you can make my next mediocre show a hit?" And when he saw that she just wasn't knocking it out of the park like before, he (rudely) gave the part to Glenn Close, who I think made a PHENOMENAL Norma.
AtLastOnTheGround 2 years ago
I think I have to agree with you there, Close is always gonna be the real Norma on stage, tho Swanson is of course the REAL Norma, I don't think Patti really fit this role
Asylum07MasterMadman 2 years ago
Mhmm - Patti's a talented woman, but this is not the role for her. Glenn was (in my, or I guess, OUR eyes), the ultimate stage Norma. Not the best voice, but she made the character so human and real. And then Betty was her typical electric self and made the part unique (And WOW what a voice!)
AtLastOnTheGround 2 years ago
a 4 year run in London hardly constitutes a flop, nor does record advance sales in New York. Overall the show lost money simply becuase it's running costs were so high. Even when it closed in NEw York it was still making $700,000 a week, but needed to run to 90% capacity constantly to even break even.
fellatio24 2 years ago 2
You know folks, the reason why Lupone is NOT Norma is because she singing too damn well. Norma should be a bit rough around the edges; she was after all a faded and silent star. Also in the theatre she was a bit cool, rather than mad. Anyway the show was a flop!
Sondheimsbitch 2 years ago 2
wow this woman is amazing . i would love to see her play norma
alamaboy 2 years ago
I don't thing Glen Close did a bad job with the role, however i think that Pattie blew it out of the water. I mean come on I dont really think to compare the two vocally is fair.
andtheawardgoes2 2 years ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Flat and lifeless. A robot could have sang it with more emotion.
josparno 2 years ago
i mean.. you must know pretty fierce robots...
okaycai 2 years ago 3
incredible
KaraokeKid22 2 years ago
i think this version of the song is a bit rushed, quicker tempo, and did not give justice to her brilliant voice.
Tetiktetik 3 years ago 2
Norma Desmond is only suppose to be 50 for some reason other actresses feel the need to portray her as an "Old" woman ie Glenn Close,Betty Buckley.This was a great production in London with Patti.She made you feel sorry for Norma Desmond.She sang the hell out of the role and didn't over act the part.The whole show became a mess when it went to Broadway.From the direction to the new songs to the over acting and bad singing.
Paris1832 3 years ago 9
Apparently you missed the original London reviews...some of the WORST ever. That's why she was replaced.
roccoh21 3 years ago
The reviews were mixed.I don't recall anything really bad said about her.More for the show.Although Newsweek had to comment on her "aardvark" nose,which at that point I realized they didn't have anything legit to say.And she was replaced because Warner Bros. who had a stake in the show wanted to go with a "bigger" name that would,in their eyes,make more money.
Paris1832 3 years ago
Time magazine said "the belter lacks magic" The times called her "miscast and unmoving" just to quote a few.
onlyalittlewicked 1 year ago
@onlyalittlewicked fuck time magazine
MrMusicstone 1 year ago
@MrMusicstone are we still a bit bitter of La LuPone's replacement 17 years ago. Time was just one of many poor reviews. She didn't make the grade, plus it was almost 2 decades ago. LET IT GO!
onlyalittlewicked 1 year ago
no its not. AWL just decided he liked Glenn better so he fired Patti even tho she was already PROMISED the role
KaraokeKid22 2 years ago
He did NOT like Glen better....he was FORCED to hire Glen because Paramount Pictures, a co-producer of the show, wanted a more 'high-profile' actress in the lead.....Patti Lupone WILL ALWAYS BE THE BEST NORMA ON STAGE.....the second best is Betty Buckley....
Disney69 2 years ago
i kno that Patti is the best, shes the best at everything. i just read that in an interview online, dont get mad
KaraokeKid22 2 years ago
I totally understand...I'm not mad at anyone....I just want everyone to have the correct info regarding how Patti was replaced by Glen....while I do think Glen is an amazing dramatic actress, the role DOES require a STRONG singer, which is what we get in Patti....when the production was moved to the States, of course they had plenty of time to make changes to the score and add songs and fix what needed fixin...I wish Patti would get a chance to do the role in the States...one day I hope....
Disney69 2 years ago
yeah, that would be nice if she got to do it, except she's turnin' sixty this year...
KaraokeKid22 2 years ago
Which is EXACTLY WHY this would be the PERFECT time to do the role NOW.....when she originally did the role, she was the youngest actress to perform the role.....NOW IS THE TIME SHE SHOULD DO IT....!!!
Disney69 2 years ago
just have 1 more question,
if it was Warner Brother's idea, and not Andrew's, why does Patti comment that she will never work with AWL again
KaraokeKid22 2 years ago
1st Paramount Pictures not Warner Bros was the co-producer of the show...2nd, Andrew COULD have said NO to Paramount but he needed the MONEY in order to produce this show because it is an ELABORATE show to stage...Therefore Patti feels BETRAYED by Andrew....He choose to deal with a corporate company instead of standing by his friend and leading lady....Andrew should have kept Patti in the show for LA & Broadway like he contracted to....I think she would work with him now that time has passed...
Disney69 2 years ago
I dont think so. She has said she never wished to discuss Webber and Sunset again in interviews, if you read the book "Closeup on Sunset Boulevard" there is a whole chapter dedicated to that particular incident.
And after she sued him, she used the money to build "The Andrew Lloyd Webber Memorial Pool"
MaskedLion 2 years ago
I don't think she can handle this score at her present age. The clarity of her high notes has gone from her voice, imho
gabsylv 2 years ago
But she won't do the show now because she said she would never work with Andrew Lloyd Webber again! I don't blame her!
phatchrulesforever 2 years ago
Webber optioned the rights from Paramount. They were not directly involved with producing it. However the rest of the statement is true.
onlyalittlewicked 1 year ago
@Paris1832 At Patti was around 45 here. I agree with you!
tarynactress 1 year ago
@Paris1832 they portray her older because she has lost her mind and for the time in history that it was 50 was considered very old especially on screen
LukeWittz 1 year ago
The role of Norma Desmond is a challenge few actresses are up to but I would love to see Patti LuPone star in the film for once. Glenn Close is OK too. Norma is about 70-80 years old and she is in and out of reality, not only because she was an actress but because her ex-husband/valet Max has protected her all these years. She is from SILENT MOVIES circa 1920s!Norma IS over the top, campy and probably knew Theda Bara personally.
joeocho88 3 years ago
I agree it would be fabulous to see Patti in the film... but that's not going to happen. She's said in many interviews that she would never work with Lloyd Webber again. Good decision.
ilovepattilupone 3 years ago
Stupid A.L.W wanted Glenn. Thats a regetful decision. "Andrew, thanks for the pool". Will he ever learn?? NOTE: i LIKE MOST OF HIS SHOWS, BUT LOVVVVVEEEE Patti!
pattimylove 3 years ago 2
If one could combine her voice and Glenn Close's acting, you would have a super duper Norma Desmond!
lumpylumps579 3 years ago
yeah you get elaine paige
she's teh superior norma
BrazilNemoFish 3 years ago
I've just been comparing videos and I love Elaine Paige but I would like to note that Glenn, Betty and Elaine all sang this song in a lower key.
jtcarey2 3 years ago
Simply an AMAZING performer! I wonder why she doesn't have an entire houseful of Tony Awards. I have every original cast recording that features her that I can find. I hope I can get this video. The cello person needs to compliment her voice better, less mechanical playing.SHE IS FABULOUS AS USUAL! I AM A FAN.THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS GREAT PERFORMANCE!
joeocho88 3 years ago
I remember seeing Patti LuPone in Sunset Boulevard in London - about 10 years ago, I think. She got a standing ovation after this song - not often you see a standing ovation in the middle of a show!! I thought she was outstanding in the role. Thanks for posting.
lkofron 3 years ago
Patti has been robbed twice: she should have won the Tony for "Anything Goes", and she would have won it if she had transferred to b'way in "Sunset". Then, she'd be in the record books with Angela Lansbury for the only 2 actresses ever to win the Best Actress Tony 4 times!!!! Glen was good, but she's an actor not a singer.
ActorSinger51 3 years ago 4
You're damn skippy she should've been Norma Desmond on Broadway. Musical Theatre is such a treacherous business. I hate that she was robbed.
Having watched Glenn's version, it's just...too much. Patti has voice and presence, and Glenn's was just clinical and forced.
Paul3689 3 years ago 10
Without question, LuPone IS the BEST Norma Desmond on stage!! Her voice and acting perfectly equaled that of Gloria Swanson in the film version!! LuPone should have been in the Broadway production of Sunset and should have won another Tony for her performance!! Thank God for the original London cast recording and the many live performances she did singing songs from Sunset!!
Disney69 3 years ago 9
i cant find the London cast recording anywhere, including itunes, do u kno where i can get it?
KaraokeKid22 2 years ago
Patti LuPone is my idol. She's the very best. I saw her as Mrs Lovett in 03. I'm begging my mom to get me to Gypsy before she leaves. =]
broadwaybabi91 3 years ago 2
Is this from "children in need" btw? Thanks 4 posting :D
lofiguy 3 years ago
What was this for and when was it filmed?
tonyesque 3 years ago
i prefer oatti's version of Norma, because she has that "flat-sounding" belt, and Norma is not supposed to be a good singer (if I am correct)
ActorSinger51 3 years ago
I love Patti Lupone's version...She's amazing... Powerful voice...
lalomedinac 3 years ago 9
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Her Voice just gives out just too much Strength ... ITS too much.. for Norma.. perfect for mama and Evita...but not for Norma...LEAVE IT TO GLENN who does this role to perfection...
MissSabrinaD 3 years ago
If you think Patti's voice dies too much, listen to Elaine.
ChrisStockslager 3 years ago
Patti = Amazing
x3MamaRose 3 years ago 6
I am a HUGE fan of patti, she's got a mean set of pipes. But her portrayal of Norma lacks one key trait: vulnerability. She makes Norma seem so strong and able, when really she's an emotional trainwreck.
I preferred Patti in Evita and Gypsy, by far.
bohemiawelcumsyou 3 years ago 2
It's interesting to hear your view, since I felt exactly the opposite, especaially when compared with the approach Glenn Close took. I really felt Patti's Norma was subtler and more vulnerable, more hurt inside. A matter of taste, I suppose. :-)
AriesModerator 3 years ago
See I feel both I see it in both but I always feel Patti is best at the "Get the F*^% out of my way" acting like with Eva and Mama Rose. Though I see vulnerability in Fatine and Norma.
DonJuan1992 3 years ago 2
the most amazing voice ever. no contest.
uglalice 3 years ago 4
Patti, as her record shows, is the best at whatever she does. No one can say she doesn't. They'd be foolish to say Patti is anything but GREAT!
galencole77 3 years ago 3
No offence to the great Patti, but I saw E.P. on Broadway do this and she was sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much better!!!!!!!!!!!!
tarynactress 3 years ago
too bad elaine does NOT even sing it in the same key as PATTI, don't think she could otherwise she would have. cannot not even compare to LA Lupone! the true diva!
juniorvz1 3 years ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
LOL Patti really is AWFUL isn't she!?!
Paige didn't sing the same key because the notes were lowered for Glenn Close and everyone sang them in that key afterwards. Fool.
elfguest2008 3 years ago
thank you for sharing your idiocy elfguest. next, please tell us what's wrong with the taj mahal and the mona lisa
gabsylv 3 years ago
You're SERIOSULY comparing LuPone with one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and one of the greatest works of the Italian Renaissance?
And I'm the idiot?
elfguest2008 3 years ago
I am making that very comparison. And it's not one of the seven wonders
gabsylv 3 years ago
Then I don't need to do anything else. You've well and truly lost any credibility that you could have hoped for!
And the Taj Mahal IS considered one of the Seven Wonders of the *MODERN* world by many. Google it!
elfguest2008 3 years ago
I can spell. Seriously.
gabsylv 3 years ago
LOL
You're resorting to picking up on a typo now? When you seem to struggle with capitalization in a sentence!?
You think Patti needs another juvenile fan?? I'm unsubscribing from this thread now. I've got a life I need to get on with.
elfguest2008 3 years ago
Yes, go f*** your pet chicken
gabsylv 3 years ago
go chew on a lemon
gabsylv 3 years ago
I've heard many Normas and Patti still remains my favorite. Brava. She should have taken her Norma to Broadway. Besides her excellent vocals, I really like her take on the character, not being a mere copy of the well known Swanson performance from the movie.
AriesModerator 3 years ago 6