First You Dream: The Music of Kander and Ebb

First You Dream: The Music of Kander and Ebb is a compelling 2015 musical documentary honoring the musical genius of John Kander and Fred Ebb. Directed by Michael Kantor and David Stern, and performed by a vibrant ensemble that includes Kate Baldwin, Heidi Blickenstaff and James Clow, this glittering celebration of Kander and Ebb is not to be missed by any musical theater aficionado.

This movie intricately blends live performance footage, heartwarming storytelling, and personal interviews, painting a portrait of the musical legends and their exceptional Broadway careers. Kander and Ebb are widely recognized as the powerhouse duo behind multiple grand-slam Broadway hits like 'Cabaret', 'Chicago', and 'Kiss of the Spider Woman'. Their musical compositions, known for capturing the deeper human emotion and experiences, have left an indelible mark on the landscape of musical theater.

The performances in the movie are delivered by six of Broadway’s finest performers, selected to bring to life the rich tapestry of Kander and Ebb's music. The cast includes Kate Baldwin, a Tony-nominated actress known for her work in "Finian's Rainbow," and "Hello, Dolly!" She brings her compelling vocals and emotional depth to the music of Kander and Ebb, creating an unforgettable viewing experience. James Clow, an accomplished actor hailing from Broadway with a prominent career in musical theatre, contributes his rich, baritone voice and heartfelt performances – capturing the raw emotion in Kander and Ebb’s music. Heidi Blickenstaff, who gained fame from her appearances in [title of show] and "Something Rotten!", also displays her impressive range, treating fans to a splendid and engaging performance.

The movie starts on a high note, delivering one stellar performance after another. Individual performances showcase the classic songs from renowned Broadway shows, recognizing the breathtakingly beautiful scores that Kander and Ebb have conceived. As a testament to the duo's ability to create deeply moving and memorable tunes, the performances in this film range from the energetic and invigorating to the profoundly poignant. Each song has been carefully chosen and cleverly arranged, capturing the spirit and depth of Kander and Ebb’s music, helping the viewer to understand and appreciate the unique and seminal contributions of this dynamic duo.

Between the live performances, First You Dream delves into the unique partnership of John Kander and Fred Ebb, unearthing fascinating insights into their collaboration process and examining the themes and trends in their work. The movie expertly strings together the narrative by using archival footage, personal interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses that weave into the fabric of the performances. It provides an insider's view into the theatre world, drawing back the curtain to reveal the hard work that goes into creating a Broadway musical.

Through these personal anecdotes and historical details, the movie explores the extraordinary contribution of Kander and Ebb to Broadway's golden age and their unflinching commitment to their unique voice, despite the changing musical landscape. First You Dream is a beautifully crafted movie that hits all the right notes in telling a profound story about two of the most prolific and influential composers in American musical theater history.

First You Dream is not just another tribute to famous songwriters. It's a nuanced and intimate exploration of the unequalled partnership between Kander and Ebb, two very different personalities united by the common vision they held for musical theater. The backstage drama, professional triumphs, and personal hurdles they faced in their extraordinarily successful career - all form a part of this tale. It also takes a close look at how their music has had a significant impact on the wider world of entertainment.

This film excels in offering viewers a rich understanding of the history and legacy of Kander and Ebb, painting a majestic and spellbinding homage to their work. Tight direction, stellar performances from Broadway's best, combined with remarkable music and fascinating insights from the music industry's luminaries, make First You Dream: The Music of Kander and Ebb an enchanting and enriching viewing experience.

In conclusion, First You Dream: The Music of Kander and Ebb is a captivating exploration that takes audience members on a musical journey through the work of two musical legends. Its mix of memorable performances and insightful commentary makes it an essential watch for fans of Kander and Ebb, and all who appreciate the art of the musical theatre.