This post was highly recommended by David, one of my tens of readers.
I don't recall when I first became aware of Patrick Wilson. I think it might have been his spot-on performance in HBO's spectacular adaptation of Angels in America... his portrayal of the pent-up closeted mormon husband was so perfect that I just assumed he had been cloistered in Salt Lake City his whole life.
Imagine my surprise when I realized that the bulk of his career had been in musical theatre... a genre I don't follow terribly closely (I know, I should turn in my gay card right now). There's something awesome about a muscular corn-fed fair-skinned midwestern blonde boy singing with such simplicity that's kind of intoxicating. Here, he sings "If I Loved You" from Carousel. Just Patrick, his accompanist, a trucker's cap, and a cocktail... now THAT is the way to showcase a truly gifted voice. No frills, no makeup, no lighting... just a small room and a big talent.
My friend Lucy sang for the late Robert Shaw some years ago. His response was "well that was just plain old-fashioned beautiful singing". My sentiments exactly.
Enjoy!
