Stages Live [CD/DVD]

On , classical crossover star brings his Grammy-nominated 2015 album, , to a delighted studio audience, showcasing his wide vocal range on a collection of his favorite stage and screen inspirations. Recorded for PBS in late 2015, features classics from Les Miserables ("Bring Him Home"), The Phantom of the Opera ("All I Ask of You"), Carousel ("If I Loved You" and "You'll Never Walk Alone"), The Wizard of Oz ("Over the Rainbow"), and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ("Pure Imagination"). As a bonus, both the CD/DVD combo and the CD/Blu-Ray set also include guest appearances by on album highlight "All I Ask of You," as well as Tony Award-winning singer and actress on the moving "If I Loved You." 's voice remains controlled, strong, and full of vigor and power, especially in the context of the two duets. Fans of the studio album will note:"Gold Can Turn to Sand" and the duet of "Old Devil Moon" with are not found on either version ( is the sole singer of "Old Devil Moon" on the DVD-only performance), while "Finishing the Hat" and "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" are not included on the CD. Despite those differences, the collection remains a showcase to 's range, talent, and lasting popularity. ~ Neil Z. Yeung