OMG! There is no way Bernadette Peters can look that good at 63 without a lot of help. She has no lines on her face.... at all. Oh not to mention she has a birthday coming up in Feb.
forgive my guy thing,but she is also a uniquely beautiful woman. she looks like someone from the victorian past, melded with a futuristic woman, of an imagined future. if i were steve martin,a former companion of hers,i might have broken the the freakn' banjo, over bela fleck's head ,if it meant, keeping bernadette. but ,alas,i simply speculate.
Haven't really cared for her performances in the past decade but this is wonderful. Sorry I missed seeing this live but I think I'll pony up the bucks and get tickets for Follies.
I saw this production with Angela Lansbury and Catherine Zeta-Jones and absolutely loved it. It's my great regret that it I wasn't able to see Bernadette Peters and Elaine Stritch since I'm sure it they were also wonderful.
@picturefan2009 I saw both casts, and I'm not going to lie I think I liked Catherine Zeta-Jones' performance a little better. Bernadette Peters was amazing, but I cried when Catherine Zeta-Jones sang Send in the Clowns.
Desiree has a real mix of emotions in this song, shes angry, hurt, heartbroken, confused, and its so difficult to convey all of those at once, most actresses just focus on one, but she has all of those and conveys them flawlessly
I love both Catherine and Bernadette in this show! :) I think they both embody what theatre and Broadway are all about; pure talent. I love the simplicity in their performances. There aren't any tricks, wires, explosives set off on stage to make a great show. <3
Desiree--an over-the-hill seductress--faces her age and the reality of her empty life in this song. Ms Peters is superb in this role. BRAVO!! BRAVO!! BRAVO!!
@JETsop2 It's not about the pitch. Bernadette *could* sing this song perfectly on pitch, absolutely beautifully (as evidenced by her incredible resume), but she said that she and Sondheim did choose a lower key, to be less sung. Moreover, at this point in the show, she's soooo emotional and caught up in the scene, she's choking on her own tears.
Although, for what it's worth, I saw her in the show twice, and she was on pitch during both performances, so who knows, lol.
I saw this show last week. I want to see it again. Of all those who have sung Send in the Clowns, no one compares with Bernadette Peters. The audience was deeply, emotionally touched; even my male companion was wiping away tears. Bravo for American's First Lady of the Theatre - Bernadette Peters.
@LiverandOnions55 The both did the role: Ms Peters replaced Ms Jones in the role on Broadway. This kind of thing happens from time to time, it's just a cast change. :)
What a wonderful beautiful woman. Pretty face, beautiful voice and personality.. What more can anyone ask for? I never realized how great Bernadette is when i was younger, we get to appreciate great talents as we get older. I guess we get wiser.. lol
Amazing. She is so great in this. Seeing this show last month, w/Bernadette and Elaine Strich was truly one the highlights of 10 years of Broadway shows for me. This caliber of acting and singing is so rare and wonderful.
@lumobachster that is the feeling of many theater critics - B'way likes to show that it can still attract A-List stars like CZJ, but she pales in comparison to Bernadette Peters' performance.
"send in the clowns' is when you go down when you are riding a bull and shit goes down and the bull charges you. It is a distraction and a help aid when all goes to hell. That is how I always saw it anyway.
@ellishadow That's what I thought too. Here they are in two different places, there out in the open, and where are the clowns to "distract" "ease the tension."
after the tenderness of C Z-J's performance, Bernie would have been a cookiecutter copycat. This is wonderful. And more the way I've always wished to hear it. It's melodrama yet honest, precisely what you would expect from the character...a washed up yesterday's news diva clinging to her youth and fame...always the actress, yet still letting us see inside her unknowingly. It's like the differece between Bernie and Patti doing Gypsy. Different approaches are equally great when delivered well.
I saw her in "A Little Night Music" recently, and her + Elain Stritch were AMAZING. And I don't recall our Petra's name, but she was absolutely brilliant.
Stephen Sondheim has said of this song that he wrote it in short brisk phrases because this is the way one talks when one is really angry (isn't it rich - isn't it queer etc.) he meant it to be sung in anger... the question for the actor is, who is she angry at? herself? her lover? there is a sorrow here for sure.. even though I think the film version is execrable, I've always thought that Elizabeth Taylor captured something that others have missed... it's too bad it wasn't a better film
I sat second row at her show here in Minneapolis back in May (2010), and I had the privilege of getting to meet her and take a photo after the concert.
@denisonM In the time period that "ALNM" occurs, she would have died during child birth if she'd been over 40...however, Desiree has almost always been cast older than logical. Zeta-Jones was more appropriate given the period...but like I said, Peters still LOOKS like she's in her 30s, so she fits it to a T.
@pumpkinheadedmf said "I love how Bernadette Peters is old enough to be Catherine Zeta-Jones' mother, and yet she can still believably replace her in a role."
Actually, Catherine Zeta-Jones is a little too young for this role if you ask me.
@sacredlunatic Trevor Nunn went on record saying that the entire cast (with the exception of Lansbury, obviously), was younger than any previous production of the show. It was intended.
@pumpkinheadedmf I agree. But my question is...WHY THE HELL WASNT SHE ORIGINALLY CAST TO OPEN THE SHOW! did you see Catherine at the TONYS! Her acceptance speech. UGH!
@DavidDSR01 Her Tony performance sucked, but I thought her reaction to winning and her acceptance speech was adorable. I love Zeta-Jones and all the animosity directed by fans at her has been totally unjustified.
Perfection. Bernadette is just LIVING the song...not caring about pitch, not caring about sounding pretty, just getting down the emotions and being there in the moment. I wish they'd done the whole song! It brought tears to my eyes
I saw this today. 3rd row. And it was truly one of the most magical experiences I've ever had. I love Peters to death, but even I wasn't prepared for a performance this EXTRAORDINARY from her. She was hilarious, tender, and heartbreaking.
Elaine Stritch was truly excellent as well; so funny but endearing.
Peters' "Clowns" brought tears to my eyes, and the theatre practically shook from applause. She's really great in this video, but it doesn't do her justice.
this was one of the best performances i have ever seen. i wish that the cd had elaine/bernadette. they should re-record it.... haha. or at least film it for "great Performances", cuz thats what it is.
Only thing that sucks about this video is the fact they didn't use the entire song. :( But Bernadette was, is, and always will be - the fabulous Lady of Broadway!
Saw this yesterday from 5th row center - a transcendent experience. I was never a big fan of Bernadette Peters, but this convinced me of her Broadway greatness. She and Elaine Stritch together are iconic.
I am going on September 12. Judy Dench's version was very sad also, but this looks like it is going to make the hair on the skin stand when it comes at its proper place within the story. I can't wait.
Saw this last week and cried. All the emotion and melodrama she displays fits perfectly into her interpretation of Desiree. It's been running through my head ever since.
Well, Zeta Jones was just - who she Is; A Super ego that has been told she is Beautiful all her life, social climbing and gliding through to collect her award. Bernadette is a true talent, a real and focused actress and a fine singer.
@longshotbrtn Come on-- I mean, yes, Bernadette is the real deal and we all know she's better, but Zeta-Jones is a very talented actress, singer and dancer. I think everyone's hate for her is totally unfounded (except for that Tony's performance).
Fantastic Bernadette - As Always! CZJones did not meld into the cast as a team member at all and instead appeared as 'in a bubble' of her own egotism also her voice was substandard
I just saw this live, and I must say, BP deserves high honors. Her Send in the Clowns was so natural. It's all there--the sadness, tenderness, bitterness, self-awareness. Breathtaking. And she brought something original to the part. I loved how her fatigue of life on the road showed in Glamorous Life, foreshadowing what was to come. A touch melodramatic at times, but hey, the character is an actress. Brava!
I just came from NYC where I saw this show TWICE in one week. Bernadette IS Desiree and the BEST of all the Desirees I've ever heard (on CD) or seen (on stage). This video does not do justice to the outstanding and hearfelt interpretation of Send in the Clowns that Bernadette sang on the live stage. I loved Elaine in her role as well. There's nothing like watching and experiencing these true PROS at their craft. LOVED LOVED LOVED the show.
sooo why wasnt she the original then id understand why bernie won the tony because hahah news flash catherine won it because shes catherine not cause she was the best
I went to go see this show last week, and I can honestly say that her performance of this song is the most moving thing I've ever seen on Broadway. This video doesn't come close to doing it justice. Catherine Zeta-Jones who?
@Selendomono They did the show from December to the end of June...a decent amount of time. I know Catherine has other commitments and such, but wanted to do the show as long as she could. As for Lansbury, I think it's only practical of her at her age to only do shows for a few months, health-wise...probably the same for Stritch.
It's unbelievable how much better Bernadette performs this than Zeta-Jones. Bernadette is so much the definitive Sondheim performer, and if she had been chosen in the first place it would have been wonderful... if.... if...
Got mixed thoughts about Elaine though, she pulls it off, but not in my favorite way. Bernadette is also agewise more adjusted to this role, which ought to be played by someone in her 50's or 60's (Glynis, Judi).
@fountainchain126 I know there's a petition to get a new recording done with Peters and Stritch (I know it'll never happen, but isn't it pretty to think so? lol)...I can't find it, though! =/
But yes, even though I'm a fan of Zeta-Jones, I'm a Bernadette fanatic, and would've loved to see her get another Tony...especially after being robbed of one in '03.
I wish the camera would settle down and let us concentrate on the performance, instead of constantly swooshing around. How irritating and distracting!
I had the pleasure of seeing this last night....and all I can say is that Ms Peters is a real treasure.....her emotional transparency and sorrow while singing this song moved me tremendously......this is what theater (when it's good) is meant to do... many may prefer a more bitter tone but I definitely agree the song is much more powerful with all the raw emotions here........
@iRebekah31 But there's affection in it, too. She still loves him--deeply, perhaps more than ever. (In Dench's concert version, he walks away, and her hand is suspended in the air for a moment, suggesting both the relationship and its loss). There's a whole stew of mixed emotions here, which makes it so rich and so open to a variety of interpretations.
I saw CZJ in this and she was wonderful, she very much deserved her Tony. But it is unfair to compare anyone to Bernadette Peters, they are sure to lose!
I was lucky enough to have seen this last night -- There was not a dry eye in the audience when the song ended.
Bernadette interpreted it beautifully. She has a deep understanding of the role -- far better than CZJ, it appears. Her Desiree was both hilarious and heartbreaking.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
OK. I hope all the people who bitched about Catherine Zeta-Jones are happy now. I HATE Peters in general, and REALLY HATE what she's done to this song, this role, and this show. I've never thought she was that good a singer, but now she's hardly even trying. And as for the cupie doll mugging, sorry...
Sondheim is like one of her closest friends and is on her speed dial. I am sure she consulted with him and got his blessing. He doesn't mince words and would tell her if she was off the mark. No one should be making any assumptions based on a commercial clip. Just as no one should have condemned CZJ's lovely performance based on a Tony clip where she was sick and playing to a barn.
I am sure Sondheim himself coached Catherine and probably Bernadette as well. Bernadette wanted to put her "stamp" on it and it sounds like she did just that. Did Frederick sit on the bed the whole time? I remember him standing. I thought Alex did a great job, and I was happy Catherine gave him some recognition in her Tony acceptance. My friend saw it and says that we relate to the actress playing Desiree based on our own ages, he is Catherine's age and I am Bernadette's. Await cooler daze..
@MrMproft I just saw the performance last night...Frederick actually gets up and stands with his back facing her, in a way of somewhat shame for past behaviors, right after the song cuts off in the video.
I also agree that Bernadette put her own stamp, because her emotion reflected in the song was very unique and makes you view the entire scene very differently.
I saw this Thursday. The scene was heartbreaking and magnificent. Definitely one of the best performances of this song I've ever seen. Also, her "Glamorous Life" was totally different than I have ever seen it played--she played the irony. It was great and really worked with what she did the rest of the evening, and made "SITC" so much more poignant because we realize that she is READY to stop the merry go round and be with him.
I love her interpratation! I prefer an actrice that makes the part her own while respecting the material (like Bernadette Peters or Judy Dench) than a actrice who over acts without puting real feelings into it.
On my first ever trip to NYC I was blessed to see this musical. I am a person who likes historical venues and this was a diferent story. I remember hearing this song as a child now that I am an adult and was excited to see and hear this song. Bernadette and Elaine were AWESOME even though I did want to see CZJ and AL at first. Would love to see another Bernadette and Elaine show. Bravo!! I love NYC
@johnblacklovesmar Oh, but it is. Sondheim is a genius of ambivalence. In many of his songs, there are 2 or 3 emotions, and in this one, there are at least 4 or 5, some at odds with each other: lingering affection (it's in there); self-mockery; regret; anger (at herself and at Fredrik); loss; loneliness. Bitterness, because she realizes too late he's her true love, and at her age, there will not be another. Have you ever felt searing pain, yet at the same time saw humor in the situation?
What a difference! Cubic Zirconium Jones was all "Look! I'm giving a Joan Crawford simulation of emotions I don't feel at all." But with Bernadette it's, "I am feeling more than I dare reveal" -- but Desiree's facade collapses and we see it all.
Someone can be bitter and resigned and have tears in their eyes. someone can also be upset but not angry.They can also grab someone's hand for any number of reasons-sadness, anger, heartbreak, a desire for connection. Human emotions and their expression are very complex. It strikes me as sad that so many people that profess to love theatre completely marry themselves to one persons performance (i.e Glynis) and crystallize that. You really do miss out on a lot operating that way.
@bettyboy72 Hey. We're entitled to our opinions. And in my personal opinion, I don't think Peters acts the song very well. The only reason I bring up Glynis Johns is because acting-wise, she's the best Desiree I've seen yet. I'm not 'marrying' myself to her performance, I just don't think Peters should be sobbing as much as she is during the song. That's my opinion, and I have a right to have it. Thank you.
I think Bernadette is a terrific choice for this role. My favorite actress in the role is still Judi Dench. There's a clip of her on YouTube doing it on a talk show while she was in the Royal Festival Hall production in 1995 or 1996. It's stunning. She even givers her take on the song with the host before she performs.
Oh Bernadette, How I love you!!! This song is so intricate in it's meanings and subtleties. When I heard she was coming into this role, I was so excited! Can't wait to hear the whole thing!!
Naturally, it's a question of personal taste, but I never saw this song as bitter. For me, it was always about an actress realising her mistake and, instead of showing her complete devastation, trying to laugh it off as if it's all a joke played by fate. For me, this is thus probably the best SitC I've seen.
@michaelh242 Yes, it is a matter of taste. For me, Dame Dench's version is definitive. If only she could laugh it off. But this time, she can't, not quite. Now that it matters, now that she knows herself, now that flirtation isn't enough, it's beyond her grasp. It's a symbolic death--of a "coherent" life--echoing the other deaths in the play. That's why, without just the right amount of bitterness here, the whole play would be little more than farce.
All of you must remember Sondheim himself put her in this role. He asked her personally on the phone. There's more than one way to play a character. Bernadette Peters is a Broadway legend for a reason, she finds the truth and that's what she brings to the table.Why would anyone want to see the same interpretation over and over again? This video is only 1:40, so if your gonna base her interpretation on this little snippet, I suggest you go see the show and then make your judgment.
@MzCharmedFan0214 I'm not judging her entire performance based on the 1:40 long video, I'm judging how she sings this song. I think Bernadette Peters is a fantastic actress, and I'm sure she plays the role well- I just don't think she acted this particular scene very well.
Really guys, seriously? You seem to be forgetting Sondheim is THE ONE WHO ASKED HER TO DO THIS. And she's making it her own by making it more sorrowful than bitter, this is the way that works for her and she does it fabulously. I understand your used to the way it's usually done but that doesn't mean it's the only correct way of portraying it. Besides, this video hardly does her justice... go see the show for yourself and you'll eat your words.
@TheatreFanatic4eva You seem to be forgetting that we all have certain opinions and certain thoughts on how the song should be performed. And we are entitled to them.
This year the my choir is doing this song
LittleMissMadie99 3 days ago
Can't say I like her rendition as well as some others I've heard. Can't say that I can't appreciate her fine performance however.
artistphx 1 month ago
OMG! There is no way Bernadette Peters can look that good at 63 without a lot of help. She has no lines on her face.... at all. Oh not to mention she has a birthday coming up in Feb.
rogerskimberlyg444 1 month ago
she is 63???!!! OMG, I thought she was so much younger!
princepeterwolf 1 month ago
@princepeterwolf I looked up her birthday. She will be 64 in February 2011
rogerskimberlyg444 1 month ago
So she is 65 now? wow, I wouldn't give her more than 49 years, she looks and sounds amazing
princepeterwolf 1 month ago
I miss this show so much!
kyle8246 1 month ago
forgive my guy thing,but she is also a uniquely beautiful woman. she looks like someone from the victorian past, melded with a futuristic woman, of an imagined future. if i were steve martin,a former companion of hers,i might have broken the the freakn' banjo, over bela fleck's head ,if it meant, keeping bernadette. but ,alas,i simply speculate.
brainsareus 4 months ago 7
Haven't really cared for her performances in the past decade but this is wonderful. Sorry I missed seeing this live but I think I'll pony up the bucks and get tickets for Follies.
Garmct 5 months ago
@Garmct it was amazing, i saw it! waited on line tkts to get tickets for it but it was well worth it!
laikamq 4 months ago
@Garmct Do it! She was incredible!
typewriterr123456789 4 months ago
word thats a great idea!
uncletibs 6 months ago
Where is the rest
Send in the rest
isthisnametook 6 months ago 31
Bernadette Peters ALL THE WAY!!!! A true Broadway Baby will always stick close to home and Bernadette is home to me!!!! She's one of the greats!
T4Tyson 6 months ago
Catherine Zeta- WHO?
purser132 7 months ago 4
I did this show in my hometown about seven years ago
ishotu747 7 months ago
I saw this production with Angela Lansbury and Catherine Zeta-Jones and absolutely loved it. It's my great regret that it I wasn't able to see Bernadette Peters and Elaine Stritch since I'm sure it they were also wonderful.
picturefan2009 8 months ago
@picturefan2009 I saw both casts, and I'm not going to lie I think I liked Catherine Zeta-Jones' performance a little better. Bernadette Peters was amazing, but I cried when Catherine Zeta-Jones sang Send in the Clowns.
Dalthis555 7 months ago
the only reason to dislike this is that it doesn't have the full song. I really wish it did, Bernadette Peters is amazing!
upload13579 8 months ago
Bernadette Peters is still wonderful, she is a nightingale that flies into your heart
oliver91ist 8 months ago
Why did three people dislike this?
TheMZMtv 8 months ago
three people are clowns
johnpseudonymsmith 8 months ago 7
strange not to see this over done and over acted.
mentaltenant 8 months ago 7
LOVE
cooleo505 9 months ago
Dang! She looks great! And she's in her sixties!
Ignorance96 9 months ago
I love Catherine Zeta-Jones to death, but Bernadette is my woman until the end of time.
ThePeterBluth 10 months ago 4
Peters is one of best Send in the Clown
tuhsiaofu 11 months ago 3
ZEta could'nt match peters EVER!!!!
crackerpopskikay 11 months ago 5
Fuck I wanna see
SHit i'm in a different country!!!
crackerpopskikay 11 months ago
It was adapted for film in 1977, with Harold Prince directing and Elizabeth Taylor, Len Cariou, Lesley-Anne Down and Diana Rigg starring.
NiagaraCub 1 year ago
This show had potential to be made as a film I think.
fatheranthony4pope 1 year ago
@fatheranthony4pope
it was made into a film in the 70's.....eh.
michaeljester 1 year ago
@michaeljester :P
with Lizzy Taylor. What i meant was this production of the show had potential to be made into a film.
fatheranthony4pope 1 year ago
She needs to play Mrs. Lovett now.
yougottagetagimmick 1 year ago 126
@yougottagetagimmick YESAGREEDSOMUCHTOTHEFULLESTEXTENTHUMANLYPOSSIBLE
mramywinehouse 9 months ago
@yougottagetagimmick .....yes.please.yes.she do.
hodel7251 4 weeks ago
Desiree has a real mix of emotions in this song, shes angry, hurt, heartbroken, confused, and its so difficult to convey all of those at once, most actresses just focus on one, but she has all of those and conveys them flawlessly
sweeney60 1 year ago 5
Awesome emotions in this.
YumeNK 1 year ago
Bernadette Peters... *gapes*
BOomeek 1 year ago 3
I love both Catherine and Bernadette in this show! :) I think they both embody what theatre and Broadway are all about; pure talent. I love the simplicity in their performances. There aren't any tricks, wires, explosives set off on stage to make a great show. <3
emopinata12345 1 year ago
No wires. No flying. No stunts. No effects. Just one incredible actress singing a beautiful song. This is Broadway theater. Everything else is Vegas.
chefwilla 1 year ago 3
joy
companythemusical 1 year ago
so beautiful and wonderful and everything. I want this on repeat for the rest of my life.
(still do not understand why I can't think both versions are good, though.)
fireplacecat77 1 year ago
Desiree--an over-the-hill seductress--faces her age and the reality of her empty life in this song. Ms Peters is superb in this role. BRAVO!! BRAVO!! BRAVO!!
trp3141592 1 year ago
A true class act.
caterrachel 1 year ago
Oh. My. God. If I have one dying wish, it is to have Bernadette Peters sing this song at my funeral.
larkincole 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Can anyone else hear the pitch issues?
JETsop2 1 year ago
@JETsop2 It's not about the pitch. Bernadette *could* sing this song perfectly on pitch, absolutely beautifully (as evidenced by her incredible resume), but she said that she and Sondheim did choose a lower key, to be less sung. Moreover, at this point in the show, she's soooo emotional and caught up in the scene, she's choking on her own tears.
Although, for what it's worth, I saw her in the show twice, and she was on pitch during both performances, so who knows, lol.
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago 4
How can you talk of her "replacing Catherine Zeta -Jones"? Bernadette is absolutely the best!
ellemuliarchyk 1 year ago
I saw this show last week. I want to see it again. Of all those who have sung Send in the Clowns, no one compares with Bernadette Peters. The audience was deeply, emotionally touched; even my male companion was wiping away tears. Bravo for American's First Lady of the Theatre - Bernadette Peters.
maggiemagful 1 year ago
It's amazing because if Bernadette played this role originally she would have won the Tony with more votes than Catherine. By a mile!
thomasswayne 1 year ago
I was so stunned by this. I had never heard this kind of interpretation of this song. Is this out on DVD? Will it ever be? God, I hope so!
carlos3765 1 year ago
She better get a Tony for this!
jameslingham 1 year ago
@jameslingham She can't. Catherine Zeta-Jones won the Tony for this role back in June 2010. Bernadette replaced her.
broadwayboundguy 1 year ago
I saw this a week ago and I didn't realize how breathtaking it was until now. From now on, it will never cease to bring me to tears.
kachuncamia 1 year ago
This is absolutely beautiful and breathtaking
iliketacooz92 1 year ago
Comment removed
kachuncamia 1 year ago
wait i'm confused who got the role zeta jones or peters? why are there videos of them doing this with the same actor on teh same set???
LiverandOnions55 1 year ago
@LiverandOnions55 The both did the role: Ms Peters replaced Ms Jones in the role on Broadway. This kind of thing happens from time to time, it's just a cast change. :)
ElphabaEmerald182 1 year ago
What a wonderful beautiful woman. Pretty face, beautiful voice and personality.. What more can anyone ask for? I never realized how great Bernadette is when i was younger, we get to appreciate great talents as we get older. I guess we get wiser.. lol
Thanks for posting this.
stevescissors 1 year ago
Amazing. She is so great in this. Seeing this show last month, w/Bernadette and Elaine Strich was truly one the highlights of 10 years of Broadway shows for me. This caliber of acting and singing is so rare and wonderful.
psalm7325 1 year ago
I was in tears when I saw this live.
kipioneer 1 year ago 3
she should have recieved the Tony Award rather than CZJ..
lumobachster 1 year ago 3
@lumobachster that is the feeling of many theater critics - B'way likes to show that it can still attract A-List stars like CZJ, but she pales in comparison to Bernadette Peters' performance.
rick99960 1 year ago
Bernadette Peters is AMAZING!!!! I LOVE HER!!!!!
vanvanvanessaa 1 year ago
"send in the clowns' is when you go down when you are riding a bull and shit goes down and the bull charges you. It is a distraction and a help aid when all goes to hell. That is how I always saw it anyway.
ellishadow 1 year ago
@ellishadow That's what I thought too. Here they are in two different places, there out in the open, and where are the clowns to "distract" "ease the tension."
ykaiilah 1 year ago
This was the single most beautiful moment I ever saw on Broadway. I never even understood the song until I heard Bernadette's interpretation of it.
truelori 1 year ago 2
@truelori ditto. CZJ didn't move me with her live performance of this song. But I've seen the show twice with Bernadette. Absolutely amazing.
eelw22 1 year ago 2
Seriously, who is more beautiful then Bernadette? Love that woman.
settings99 1 year ago
@settings99
I loved her in Animaniacs
pepelepew2006 1 year ago
@pepelepew2006 say what??!?! what character?
settings99 1 year ago
@settings99
Rita the cat
pepelepew2006 1 year ago
LOVE HER
RABCKO 1 year ago
Bernadette just extended till January 9, 2011!
entertainer1987 1 year ago 2
after the tenderness of C Z-J's performance, Bernie would have been a cookiecutter copycat. This is wonderful. And more the way I've always wished to hear it. It's melodrama yet honest, precisely what you would expect from the character...a washed up yesterday's news diva clinging to her youth and fame...always the actress, yet still letting us see inside her unknowingly. It's like the differece between Bernie and Patti doing Gypsy. Different approaches are equally great when delivered well.
tommytune79 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
bernadette... is.... amazing! end of story, shes a genius, get over it <3
911Sway 1 year ago
bernadette... is.... amazing! end of sroy, shes a genius, get over it <3
911Sway 1 year ago
I saw her in "A Little Night Music" recently, and her + Elain Stritch were AMAZING. And I don't recall our Petra's name, but she was absolutely brilliant.
shanazbowman 1 year ago
@shanazbowman Leigh Ann Larkin- and yes, she was great :)
TheatreFanatic4eva 1 year ago
BRB CRYING MY EYES OUT.
Bernadette is flawless.
RENThead12 1 year ago 2
Stephen Sondheim has said of this song that he wrote it in short brisk phrases because this is the way one talks when one is really angry (isn't it rich - isn't it queer etc.) he meant it to be sung in anger... the question for the actor is, who is she angry at? herself? her lover? there is a sorrow here for sure.. even though I think the film version is execrable, I've always thought that Elizabeth Taylor captured something that others have missed... it's too bad it wasn't a better film
forthton 1 year ago
OMFG I'm dying....
*books flights to New York*
asmileisspecial 1 year ago
Bernadette is to Sondheim as Liza is to Kander & Ebb-- a perfect marriage of composer/lyricist and performer.
Capricaquarius89 1 year ago 2
I sat second row at her show here in Minneapolis back in May (2010), and I had the privilege of getting to meet her and take a photo after the concert.
The single greatest experience of my life.
You MUST see this woman live.
PearlyPaige 1 year ago
omgomgomgomgomgomg.... now my favorite rendition
Melensko 1 year ago
I love how Bernadette Peters is old enough to be Catherine Zeta-Jones' mother, and yet she can still believably replace her in a role.
pumpkinheadedmf 1 year ago 132
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TheatreFanatic4eva 1 year ago
@pumpkinheadedmf Catherine Zeta Jones was far too young for the role. Bernadette is the perfect age.
TheCherryBomber1 1 year ago
@TheCherryBomber1 Welllll, technically, not really...since a 62 year-old wouldn't have a 14 year-old daughter, lol....
Not that Bernadette looks a day over 35....she and Catherine look the same, age-wise.
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago
@boynamedalexxx actually there are many women who have babies in their late 40s, so it's possible. Kelly Preston for example.
denisonM 11 months ago
@denisonM In the time period that "ALNM" occurs, she would have died during child birth if she'd been over 40...however, Desiree has almost always been cast older than logical. Zeta-Jones was more appropriate given the period...but like I said, Peters still LOOKS like she's in her 30s, so she fits it to a T.
boynamedalexxx 11 months ago
@pumpkinheadedmf : Yes, indeed. Moreover, Bernadette Peters' performance blew CZJ's performance many, many miles out to sea.
ganesh64 1 year ago 3
@pumpkinheadedmf said "I love how Bernadette Peters is old enough to be Catherine Zeta-Jones' mother, and yet she can still believably replace her in a role."
Actually, Catherine Zeta-Jones is a little too young for this role if you ask me.
sacredlunatic 1 year ago 3
@sacredlunatic Trevor Nunn went on record saying that the entire cast (with the exception of Lansbury, obviously), was younger than any previous production of the show. It was intended.
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago 4
@pumpkinheadedmf Believe it or not, Cathrine played an INCREADIBLY young Dessere. Most time, She's portayed older than Bernadette.
Boonedaba 1 year ago
@pumpkinheadedmf I agree. But my question is...WHY THE HELL WASNT SHE ORIGINALLY CAST TO OPEN THE SHOW! did you see Catherine at the TONYS! Her acceptance speech. UGH!
DavidDSR01 1 year ago 6
@DavidDSR01 Her Tony performance sucked, but I thought her reaction to winning and her acceptance speech was adorable. I love Zeta-Jones and all the animosity directed by fans at her has been totally unjustified.
boynamedalexxx 10 months ago 2
@pumpkinheadedmf you would never guess from looking at her 63/64 years old and still hot and her hair
PinkCowgirl925 1 year ago 3
@pumpkinheadedmf And thank god she did! can you believe Zeta-Jones won a tony for that?
gardengnome14 1 year ago
@pumpkinheadedmf and she's way better than czj :p
toughcookie5454 5 months ago
Perfection. Bernadette is just LIVING the song...not caring about pitch, not caring about sounding pretty, just getting down the emotions and being there in the moment. I wish they'd done the whole song! It brought tears to my eyes
Bway2be 1 year ago 3
I saw this today. 3rd row. And it was truly one of the most magical experiences I've ever had. I love Peters to death, but even I wasn't prepared for a performance this EXTRAORDINARY from her. She was hilarious, tender, and heartbreaking.
Elaine Stritch was truly excellent as well; so funny but endearing.
Peters' "Clowns" brought tears to my eyes, and the theatre practically shook from applause. She's really great in this video, but it doesn't do her justice.
SEE IT NOW!
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago 3
this was one of the best performances i have ever seen. i wish that the cd had elaine/bernadette. they should re-record it.... haha. or at least film it for "great Performances", cuz thats what it is.
iX3titleofshow 1 year ago 2
Only thing that sucks about this video is the fact they didn't use the entire song. :( But Bernadette was, is, and always will be - the fabulous Lady of Broadway!
bwaycraz3d84 1 year ago
Saw this yesterday from 5th row center - a transcendent experience. I was never a big fan of Bernadette Peters, but this convinced me of her Broadway greatness. She and Elaine Stritch together are iconic.
jrlexjr 1 year ago 2
I just saw it a few days ago!! IT WAS INCREDIBLE!! Love the entire cast!
peanut251 1 year ago
Saw this Sunday August 15th; and I sobbed. Bernadette Peters was AMAZING! No regrets at all for picking this show on my student budget.
michiness42 1 year ago
i wish i could go see it
LitaWhistleDog 1 year ago
I am going on September 12. Judy Dench's version was very sad also, but this looks like it is going to make the hair on the skin stand when it comes at its proper place within the story. I can't wait.
syburgess 1 year ago
Going Wednesday and can't wait !
woonsocketrocket 1 year ago
I really wish we coulda afforded to go see this show. money sucks.
BettyHuttonFan 1 year ago
Saw this last week and cried. All the emotion and melodrama she displays fits perfectly into her interpretation of Desiree. It's been running through my head ever since.
shortrest 1 year ago
Someone needs to post a full video of her singing this live..........she needs to do it on like The View or something!!!!!
fountainchain126 1 year ago
Well, Zeta Jones was just - who she Is; A Super ego that has been told she is Beautiful all her life, social climbing and gliding through to collect her award. Bernadette is a true talent, a real and focused actress and a fine singer.
longshotbrtn 1 year ago
@longshotbrtn Come on-- I mean, yes, Bernadette is the real deal and we all know she's better, but Zeta-Jones is a very talented actress, singer and dancer. I think everyone's hate for her is totally unfounded (except for that Tony's performance).
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago 4
I wish I could see this. Zeta-Jones was a mess, like a cross between Zsa Zsa Gabor and Lucille Ball. but not as good.
Bernadette's the real deal.
bonfid 1 year ago
Fantastic Bernadette - As Always! CZJones did not meld into the cast as a team member at all and instead appeared as 'in a bubble' of her own egotism also her voice was substandard
longshotbrtn 1 year ago
I'm going to see this on Sunday September 5th!!
LitesofBway 1 year ago
I just saw this live, and I must say, BP deserves high honors. Her Send in the Clowns was so natural. It's all there--the sadness, tenderness, bitterness, self-awareness. Breathtaking. And she brought something original to the part. I loved how her fatigue of life on the road showed in Glamorous Life, foreshadowing what was to come. A touch melodramatic at times, but hey, the character is an actress. Brava!
noahsdad61 1 year ago
I just came from NYC where I saw this show TWICE in one week. Bernadette IS Desiree and the BEST of all the Desirees I've ever heard (on CD) or seen (on stage). This video does not do justice to the outstanding and hearfelt interpretation of Send in the Clowns that Bernadette sang on the live stage. I loved Elaine in her role as well. There's nothing like watching and experiencing these true PROS at their craft. LOVED LOVED LOVED the show.
tressy120 1 year ago
OMG!!!!! AMAZING!!!! BRAVO!!<3
Puppies140 1 year ago
wish i lived closer to NYC so i could see this ....
RobbnCO 1 year ago
@RobbnCO I drove 9 hours in each direction to watch BP. Do it, trust me.
absoftitanium 1 year ago
sooo why wasnt she the original then id understand why bernie won the tony because hahah news flash catherine won it because shes catherine not cause she was the best
LukeWittz 1 year ago
I went to go see this show last week, and I can honestly say that her performance of this song is the most moving thing I've ever seen on Broadway. This video doesn't come close to doing it justice. Catherine Zeta-Jones who?
teobugbee1 1 year ago
Does anyone know why Zeta Jones and Lansbury left the cast so early? It hasnt even been a year I dont think
Selendomono 1 year ago
@Selendomono They did the show from December to the end of June...a decent amount of time. I know Catherine has other commitments and such, but wanted to do the show as long as she could. As for Lansbury, I think it's only practical of her at her age to only do shows for a few months, health-wise...probably the same for Stritch.
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago
It's unbelievable how much better Bernadette performs this than Zeta-Jones. Bernadette is so much the definitive Sondheim performer, and if she had been chosen in the first place it would have been wonderful... if.... if...
Got mixed thoughts about Elaine though, she pulls it off, but not in my favorite way. Bernadette is also agewise more adjusted to this role, which ought to be played by someone in her 50's or 60's (Glynis, Judi).
Aquired2 1 year ago
@Aquired2 "and if she had been chosen in the first place it would have been wonderful... if.... if..."
thanks for the chuckle!
artofpoetry 1 year ago
There really are no words for how much I adore this <3
rachlovesmoony 1 year ago
i LOVE THIS! Bernadette is great!
cooleo505 1 year ago
This is beautiful. Absolute perfection imo. Catherine, take a leaf out of this one's book!!! :-)
If Bernadette originated this role in the revival, she would have won the Tony, and would have deserved it more than Ms Zeta-Jones.
It would have been lovely to have a decent recording with Peters as Desirée
fountainchain126 1 year ago
@fountainchain126 I know there's a petition to get a new recording done with Peters and Stritch (I know it'll never happen, but isn't it pretty to think so? lol)...I can't find it, though! =/
But yes, even though I'm a fan of Zeta-Jones, I'm a Bernadette fanatic, and would've loved to see her get another Tony...especially after being robbed of one in '03.
boynamedalexxx 1 year ago
I wish the camera would settle down and let us concentrate on the performance, instead of constantly swooshing around. How irritating and distracting!
munkyb 1 year ago
I had the pleasure of seeing this last night....and all I can say is that Ms Peters is a real treasure.....her emotional transparency and sorrow while singing this song moved me tremendously......this is what theater (when it's good) is meant to do... many may prefer a more bitter tone but I definitely agree the song is much more powerful with all the raw emotions here........
nycubanpete 1 year ago 23
@nycubanpete AMEN. (:
TheatreFanatic4eva 1 year ago
amazing...as always!
onabat52 1 year ago
SOOOOOO much better than CZJ omg so much better
Lucybelle93 1 year ago
what night was this recorded? I went one night and there were cameras... the third performance actually
ARReith 1 year ago
@iRebekah31 But there's affection in it, too. She still loves him--deeply, perhaps more than ever. (In Dench's concert version, he walks away, and her hand is suspended in the air for a moment, suggesting both the relationship and its loss). There's a whole stew of mixed emotions here, which makes it so rich and so open to a variety of interpretations.
noahsdad61 1 year ago
I saw CZJ in this and she was wonderful, she very much deserved her Tony. But it is unfair to compare anyone to Bernadette Peters, they are sure to lose!
isisgsd 1 year ago
I love it! I love her and I wish I could go see her. I knew she would be great in the role. I hope they realize we need a recording of this.
Dangay13 1 year ago
I was lucky enough to have seen this last night -- There was not a dry eye in the audience when the song ended.
Bernadette interpreted it beautifully. She has a deep understanding of the role -- far better than CZJ, it appears. Her Desiree was both hilarious and heartbreaking.
AtLastOnTheGround 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
OK. I hope all the people who bitched about Catherine Zeta-Jones are happy now. I HATE Peters in general, and REALLY HATE what she's done to this song, this role, and this show. I've never thought she was that good a singer, but now she's hardly even trying. And as for the cupie doll mugging, sorry...
Cristopher1970 1 year ago
Sondheim is like one of her closest friends and is on her speed dial. I am sure she consulted with him and got his blessing. He doesn't mince words and would tell her if she was off the mark. No one should be making any assumptions based on a commercial clip. Just as no one should have condemned CZJ's lovely performance based on a Tony clip where she was sick and playing to a barn.
bettyboy72 1 year ago
I am sure Sondheim himself coached Catherine and probably Bernadette as well. Bernadette wanted to put her "stamp" on it and it sounds like she did just that. Did Frederick sit on the bed the whole time? I remember him standing. I thought Alex did a great job, and I was happy Catherine gave him some recognition in her Tony acceptance. My friend saw it and says that we relate to the actress playing Desiree based on our own ages, he is Catherine's age and I am Bernadette's. Await cooler daze..
MrMproft 1 year ago
@MrMproft I just saw the performance last night...Frederick actually gets up and stands with his back facing her, in a way of somewhat shame for past behaviors, right after the song cuts off in the video.
I also agree that Bernadette put her own stamp, because her emotion reflected in the song was very unique and makes you view the entire scene very differently.
singaling44 1 year ago
I saw this Thursday. The scene was heartbreaking and magnificent. Definitely one of the best performances of this song I've ever seen. Also, her "Glamorous Life" was totally different than I have ever seen it played--she played the irony. It was great and really worked with what she did the rest of the evening, and made "SITC" so much more poignant because we realize that she is READY to stop the merry go round and be with him.
InTheHeart 1 year ago
I love her interpratation! I prefer an actrice that makes the part her own while respecting the material (like Bernadette Peters or Judy Dench) than a actrice who over acts without puting real feelings into it.
magoini 1 year ago 2
On my first ever trip to NYC I was blessed to see this musical. I am a person who likes historical venues and this was a diferent story. I remember hearing this song as a child now that I am an adult and was excited to see and hear this song. Bernadette and Elaine were AWESOME even though I did want to see CZJ and AL at first. Would love to see another Bernadette and Elaine show. Bravo!! I love NYC
nero12307 1 year ago
I saw it yesterday, and I have never thought of the song as bitter....resigned, rueful, yes but bitter, no.
johnblacklovesmar 1 year ago
@johnblacklovesmar Oh, but it is. Sondheim is a genius of ambivalence. In many of his songs, there are 2 or 3 emotions, and in this one, there are at least 4 or 5, some at odds with each other: lingering affection (it's in there); self-mockery; regret; anger (at herself and at Fredrik); loss; loneliness. Bitterness, because she realizes too late he's her true love, and at her age, there will not be another. Have you ever felt searing pain, yet at the same time saw humor in the situation?
noahsdad61 1 year ago
What a difference! Cubic Zirconium Jones was all "Look! I'm giving a Joan Crawford simulation of emotions I don't feel at all." But with Bernadette it's, "I am feeling more than I dare reveal" -- but Desiree's facade collapses and we see it all.
Goomgam 1 year ago 2
Glynis Johns would be proud.
autopolydidact 1 year ago
Someone can be bitter and resigned and have tears in their eyes. someone can also be upset but not angry.They can also grab someone's hand for any number of reasons-sadness, anger, heartbreak, a desire for connection. Human emotions and their expression are very complex. It strikes me as sad that so many people that profess to love theatre completely marry themselves to one persons performance (i.e Glynis) and crystallize that. You really do miss out on a lot operating that way.
bettyboy72 1 year ago 9
@bettyboy72 Hey. We're entitled to our opinions. And in my personal opinion, I don't think Peters acts the song very well. The only reason I bring up Glynis Johns is because acting-wise, she's the best Desiree I've seen yet. I'm not 'marrying' myself to her performance, I just don't think Peters should be sobbing as much as she is during the song. That's my opinion, and I have a right to have it. Thank you.
VRNProductions 1 year ago
The performance this number deserves unlike the last effort....
I can't wait to see her again.
deeppowderboi 1 year ago
I think Bernadette is a terrific choice for this role. My favorite actress in the role is still Judi Dench. There's a clip of her on YouTube doing it on a talk show while she was in the Royal Festival Hall production in 1995 or 1996. It's stunning. She even givers her take on the song with the host before she performs.
lcowles 1 year ago 2
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violinist391 1 year ago
Oh Bernadette, How I love you!!! This song is so intricate in it's meanings and subtleties. When I heard she was coming into this role, I was so excited! Can't wait to hear the whole thing!!
ijanthony 1 year ago 2
Naturally, it's a question of personal taste, but I never saw this song as bitter. For me, it was always about an actress realising her mistake and, instead of showing her complete devastation, trying to laugh it off as if it's all a joke played by fate. For me, this is thus probably the best SitC I've seen.
michaelh2424 1 year ago 33
@michaelh242 Yes, it is a matter of taste. For me, Dame Dench's version is definitive. If only she could laugh it off. But this time, she can't, not quite. Now that it matters, now that she knows herself, now that flirtation isn't enough, it's beyond her grasp. It's a symbolic death--of a "coherent" life--echoing the other deaths in the play. That's why, without just the right amount of bitterness here, the whole play would be little more than farce.
noahsdad61 1 year ago
@michaelh2424 I couldnt agree more. I dont see this song and moment as a bitter, angry moment. More of a sentimental regret.
cdftaurus 1 year ago
All of you must remember Sondheim himself put her in this role. He asked her personally on the phone. There's more than one way to play a character. Bernadette Peters is a Broadway legend for a reason, she finds the truth and that's what she brings to the table.Why would anyone want to see the same interpretation over and over again? This video is only 1:40, so if your gonna base her interpretation on this little snippet, I suggest you go see the show and then make your judgment.
MzCharmedFan0214 1 year ago 6
@MzCharmedFan0214 I'm not judging her entire performance based on the 1:40 long video, I'm judging how she sings this song. I think Bernadette Peters is a fantastic actress, and I'm sure she plays the role well- I just don't think she acted this particular scene very well.
VRNProductions 1 year ago
Really guys, seriously? You seem to be forgetting Sondheim is THE ONE WHO ASKED HER TO DO THIS. And she's making it her own by making it more sorrowful than bitter, this is the way that works for her and she does it fabulously. I understand your used to the way it's usually done but that doesn't mean it's the only correct way of portraying it. Besides, this video hardly does her justice... go see the show for yourself and you'll eat your words.
TheatreFanatic4eva 1 year ago 64
@TheatreFanatic4eva You seem to be forgetting that we all have certain opinions and certain thoughts on how the song should be performed. And we are entitled to them.
VRNProductions 1 year ago