"The Threepenny Opera," composed by Kurt Weill and written by Bertolt Brecht, is a groundbreaking 1928 "play with music" that offers a biting satire of capitalism and society. This 2007 recording, released by JAY Records, captures the essence of the original stage production, featuring a blend of honky-tonk music and operatic elements that create a unique and engaging listening experience. The album spans 53 minutes and includes 22 tracks, showcasing Weill's distinctive compositional style and Brecht's sharp, witty lyrics. From the iconic "Mack the Knife" to the haunting "Pirate Jenny," each song tells a part of the story, making this not just a collection of songs but a cohesive narrative that critiques and entertains in equal measure. The Threepenny Opera is a landmark work in 20th-century theater, and this recording brings its revolutionary spirit to life.
2007 JAY Productions Ltd.2007 JAY Productions Ltd.
Tracks
PrologueWilliam Duel, John Yap
OvertureOrchestra of The Threepenny Opera, John Yap
The Ballad of Mack the KnifeGerald Price, John Yap
Morning AnthemMartin Wolfson, John Yap
Instead-Of-SongCharlotte Rae, Martin Wolfson, John Yap
Wedding SongBernard Bogin, John Astin, Joseph Beruh, Paul Dooley, John Yap
Pirate JennyLotte Lenya, John Yap
Army SongBernard Bogin, George Tyne, John Astin, Scott Merrill, John Yap
Love SongJo Sullivan, Scott Merrill, John Yap
Ballad of DependencyCharlotte Rae, John Yap
Melodrama / Polly's SongJo Sullivan, Scott Merrill, John Yap
Ballad of the Easy LifeScott Merrill, John Yap
The World Is MeanCharlotte Rae, Jo Sullivan, Martin Wolfson, John Yap
Barbara SongBeatrice Arthur, John Yap
Tango BalladLotte Lenya, Scott Merrill, John Yap
Jealousy DuetBeatrice Arthur, Jo Sullivan, John Yap
How to SurviveCharlotte Rae, Scott Merrill, John Yap
Useless SongMartin Wolfson, John Yap
Solomon SongLotte Lenya, John Yap
Call from the GraveScott Merrill, John Yap
Death MessageScott Merrill, John Yap
Finale: the Mounted MessangerWilliam Duel, John Yap