London Production/Cast Recording 1981

The cast recording of the original London cast was released in the UK in July 1981, and in the US in July 1982. Two versions were released: a two-disc "complete" edition, and a single-disc "highlights" edition. The recording was nominated for Best Cast Show Album at the 25th Annual Grammy Awards, but did not win.

Elaine Paige's rendition of "Memory" from this recording was also released as a single, reaching #6 on the UK Singles Chart in July 1981.

Missing Songs

 * 1) "The Awefull Battle of the Pekes and the Pollicles"

Peak Chart Positions

 * UK Albums Chart: #6
 * US Billboard 200: #86
 * Austria Top 40: #7
 * New Zealand Music Chart: #21

Trivia
There are a few differences between this recording and what was actually performed in the original 1981 London production:
 * The "Mr. Mistoffelees" track was reused from a 1980 recording by Paul Nicholas that had been released while the musical was still in development for promotional purposes.
 * Instead of the Act 2 Reprise of "Memory" that was performed in the stage production, this recording uses the Single Version of "Memory". It thus has slightly altered lyrics and is sung as a solo by Elaine Paige without Sarah Brightman's soprano part.