I'm trying to find some information on the demonstration album of 'Aspects of Love' which was recorded in 1988 and featured Maria Friedman, Claire Moore and Gary Bond. I know it has never been commercially released but was this version done before or after the Sydmonton presentation of the same year, with Susannah Fellowes, Michael Ball and Dinsdale Landen?

I'm also curious as to why Gary Bond didn't perform at Sydmonton as George - all I can think of is a diary clash as he was appearing on stage in Wales during 1988.

I've tried to add as much information on the Aspects demo as I can on my Gary Bond website but it would be nice to be able to clarify on the Sydmonton issue.

Just bumping this to see if anyone can help. I'm going to contact the Really Useful Group about this and several other ALW/GB related items that I need more info on but just in case anyone here can shed light on this concept album ... thanks

the demo was done before the sydmonton fest.
bond did not play george in sydmonton because of his age -- george is nearly 80 when he dies; bond was substantially younger and while that is fine on record ALW & co wanted an older actor to play the role on stage.

fun fact if you haven't actually heard the demo: "george" is actually named "james" for whatever reason.

Thanks. I don't call an eight year age difference between GB and DL 'substantial' but that's interesting. Sadly no I haven't heard the demo. Is it pretty much the same as 1988 Sydmonton re dialogue and songs?

It is also ironic that after Roger Moore pulled out of playing George in Aspects the role went to the rather too young Kevin Colson - and of course the most recent revival had Dave Willetts who is in his 50s. Gary Bond finally played the role on stage when he was 53. IMO we have never had age appropriate casting for this role - even Dinsdale Landen was only 56 at Sydmonton ...

that was the reasoning of ALW and the producers, anyway. considering the story takes place over a nearly 20-year time period, the casting is always going to be awkward. Wish I could have seen GB actually play the role. I haven't heard the demo in years but I seem to recall it being mostly similar to Sydmonton. I like your GB website. He was always my favorite joseph.