Someone Like You', a musical love story set in the American Civil War was first conceived in the 1970s when Petula Clark was inspired by the rugged landscape of West Virginia. In the 1980s she began creating her own original stage musical with Dee Shipman, an established writer known for her collaboration with Charles Aznavour.

'Someone Like You' enjoyed a successful tour of England throughout the winter months of 1989 and co-starred Petula, Dave Willetts and Clive Carter. Despite positive notices from the critics; the show was fraught with backstage problems and artistic differences resulting in a much-changed production that West End audiences saw in early 1990. On April 25th, 1990 it closed and for Petula Clark the dream that she had pursued for fifteen years was over.

Aside from a handful of recordings that have been issued on various albums the majority of the work from 'Someone Like You' remains unheard, as a complete cast recording of the show was never made. As with so many unsuccessful musical productions, hundreds of fine songs and performances become lost with time.

For this reason it was felt that a complete `record' of Petula Clark and Dee Shipman's compositions needed to be made. In August 2006 Kenny Clayton, the musical director/arranger on the original production, agreed to produce new arrangements for twelve songs from 'Someone Like You'.

The voices selected to showcase these songs for this recording were chosen for their unique vocal talents and qualities. The rich and youthful voice of former Pop Idol finalist and West End star Andrew Derbyshire highlights the contemporary edge to these songs while singer Debi Doss performs the material with clear, crisp intonation, allowing her voice to convey the sentiments of Shipman's lyrics. Finally to create an appropriate bond with the original production, Lewis Rae (who played the role of Andy) was invited to sing on this recording and Leigh Lawson's narration forms a link between the songs.

Additional Details

Label: Sepia Records

Genre: Musical/Broadway

Release Date: 05/08/07

UPC: 5055122180005