Memory

the power of her voice at 1:28

This IS how Grizabella is supposed to be... This is how Andrew Loyd Wright wanted it to be... It was his vison based on Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats... I love Elaine and Betty's singing... they are both very different...I like them both either way

Betty's got it going on! Not only is her singing flawless (I played that "Touch Me!" like 1000 times over and over again), but I actually prefer her faded-diva portrayal of Grizabella to Paige's hopeless one. Absolutely amazing performance by Betty.

the lyrics to the song lend themselves to the way elaine acted the character. regardless of what her character is 'supposed' to be

Agree with Glennsa. Betty's performance shows she still has her pride and dignity.

DivaBehavior has nailed it on the head here. You have to understand the true character of Grizabella in order to truly appreciate the power of Betty's performance. Grizabella is not supposed to be old and pathetic...she is proud and despite an old coat...she's beautiful still. Betty just got it bang on!

You don't understand -- Grizabella isn't some forlorn, beggar-woman looking cat. Elaine Paige is magnificent, but her portrayal was misguided. Griz is still proud and still knows that she is beautiful and the Glamour Cat even if the others don't see it. Betty captures the subtle elegance and undying spirit of Grizabella; Elaine plays a withered away and hopeless Grizabella.

I picture Grizabella as scrawny and Betty delivers that for me. her makeup enhances her stunning bone structure in a way that makes her authentically feline. this Grizabella's pain is tucked away in a private place but she allows a glimpse of it. the power of her voice, especially when rising from a crouch, is amazing. brava!

go Betty!