Michael Crawford in Concert (1998)

It's easily one of the freshest, sharpest and most enjoyable films of this year.

All of these films share one commonality, that being a kind of emotional center that humanizes a cast of monsters.

It’s sentimental, ridiculously long and only occasionally funny

Worth seeing just to witness how winsome it is.

I have always loved Michael since the first time I heard him in 6th grade English when we studied Phantom. This concert shows Michael in all his excellence.He sings to perfection as always, tells stories between songs that are humorous but touching.Sings a lovely Irish piece dedicated to his late Grandmother, Edith Kathleen O'Keath "Nan" as he called her.Caught this on PBS when it first showed, and had to tape it while it was showing! I got the DVD when it came out, and I still watch it! I have all of Michael's CD's, his VHS "Touch Of Music In The Night" and truly love them all!! Mike is a true sincere genius in all he does! God bless you Michael!

I've been obsessed with this TV concert since I was in the 8th grade. The DVD (which I still adore) is a frequent flyer in my apartment. Incidentaly, the only way to calm down my bird is to put on the DVD and place her in front of the television. Seriously, though, any fan of Michael Crawford, or even of The Phantom of the Opera, should watch, if not own, a copy of this show. It truly showcases Michael's broad vocal range and broad stylistic range.

What's Michael Crawford got that many of us would like to have? In this 1998 concert Crawford gives an intriguing performance, starting off with a standing audience ovation after his very first number.The first time I became aware of this performer was his Cornelius Hackl in the film version of "Hello, Dolly." I recall rather wondering how he managed to get cast, as he sang the lovely "It Only Takes a Moment" in the park scene. It was certainly not a beautiful voice I was hearing--somewhat raspy, a bit unfocused, and ordinary. I attributed its effectiveness to an extension of his well- played Cornelius character, but I was not at all impressed with his natural vocal instrument. Now, thirty years later he appears in this vocal concert, with full orchestra, chorus, splashy lighting and theatrical effects. Since the 1969 film he's won numerous awards and gained a devoted following from his famous original title role in "Phantom of the Opera."The voice has gained some strength and control, yet it's basically the same instrument heard back in the late 60s. What he does appear to have is an astute sense of theatre, timing, keen ear, and other attributes of professionalism.He also sings with his whole heart, and puts everything he's possibly got into the moment. His fervent desire to communicate enhances his diction and projection, and he obviously loves his craft.The audience responds lovingly and enthusiastically to a well-conceived format and "package." Perhaps his basic "ordinary" instrument is in tune with these times of electronic enhancement; perhaps there's something here that's not overwhelming--a kind of kid-next-door up there making good. Whatver the case, this performer is making the most of what he's been given to work with. All one can say is, more power, Mr. Crawford.

Michael Crawford, as well as being an amazing singer, is also full of charisma and enthusiasm, as evidenced in this wonderful concert! He sings all sorts of show tunes (including Phantom of the Opera, of course) as well as inspirational, gospel and mainstream pop songs. Try to catch this special if PBS ever reruns it. It truly is "special"!