I worked as an usher at the Palace Theatre for Les Mis and would hear this every night and Ruthie Henshall gave an identically perfect performance of this song each and every time. It was always flawless. She's amazing.
@@sashap1547 it was, I loved it. The Palace Theatre was a nice atmospheric place to work as well. I used to stand behind the sound engineers desk and watch him working the massive mixer, he turned everyone's mics up and down in real time and looked like he was playing an instrument. After there I went to usher at the RSC Barbican Center, Comedy of Errors was on at the time which was a lot of fun to see. They designed that production in a very trippy colourful way.
@@elliottgreenwood5543 It was a mixer desk which only did volume. Every singer was miked-up with a tiny head mic, they had to turn them up and down so the only thing which came through the system was those singing at the time. The moment someone stopped singing their fader came down and someone else's was pushed up. There was no auto-tune or processing of any kind going on.
"...gone when autumn came" is not anger. It is the deepest sorrow. Notice that shortly thereafter, she says that still she dreams he'll come back to her. It is love...with a deeply broken heart.
Les Miserables is a story after the fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. 2 things actually depicts who the guy is. Either he got killed and was never able to get back or he was just really messing with the girl who trusted him so much
The roughness of her voice used in "but he was gone when Autum came" and "so different from this hell I'm living" really helps hit home the anger and hurt she must feel! It's my favourite part of the performance!
Hands down. I can't believe some people have the audacity to claim that Anne Hathaway is better than this simply because of her acting. Ruthie exhibits such intense emotion and Beauty in her voice that one weaps
The growling, then the soft singing, the falsetto, the belting... this definitely took an enormous vocal control.... Her performance is superb and so moving
I hate to be one of those nerds but females (I say females because this excludes trans women) cannot go into falsetto. They just go into head voice when they open their glottis. But I agree, this is an earth shattering performance
I suppose being young and inexperienced its not outwith the way of things for a young woman to be duped by an older asswipe....regardless, she dreams he will return...thats just ...really.....he'll come to me....fantine was obviously a bit short of a centime....love the song though, i thought the rendition of i dreamed a dream by Miss Hathaway was outstanding...a bit grotty and beautiful....Russel Crowe was shit...destroyed the film...anyway...love from Scotland...x. Joe
Absolutely the best rendition of this song. The emotion in her voice lets you the listener understand the pain she is feeling. Anyone can sing a song, but only a true artist can sing a song where the listener feels the pain and joy in a song. Bravo to this lady. She absolutely killed this song!
@@thomashayes5597 I agree. I've just watched about 5 renditions of this song by different women and I look to see who is 'feeling' the words. In this one, Ruthie is feeling it vocally but outwardly is glass, no expression. Lea Salonga expresses emotion not only vocally, but visually. Even Susan Boyle (the least professional among them) showed more visual emotion.
@@nyrockchicxx ...Anne Hathaway has more emotion than Lea Salonga. Ruhtie's rendition is the most heartwreanching, most heartbreaking there is. Period. There's no need for visual expression, voice does it all. How it breaks at certain moments, how it strengthens at others. Perfection.
No disrespect, but what do you expect? These people are career professionals with DECADES of training, study, performing and practice; but they do deserve a mention.
2:23 "As they turn your dream to shame".... that weak sound on the word "turn" in contrast to the strong previous line "as they tear your hope apart", just melts my heart... so beautiful!!! WHY IS NOBODY TALKING ABOUT THIS?
The emotions portrayed are simply unreal... outstanding performance. And yes when she whispers the word “ turn”, I feel the tears coming down my checks.
Les Miserables is a story after the fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. 2 things actually depicts who the guy is. Either he got killed and was never able to get back or he was just really messing with the girl who trusted him so much
In my opinion, this is not only the greatest song in the entire music theater canon, it is one of the great songs of mankind. And this performance is utterly breathtaking.
I had the luck to work with Ruthie. She is every inch a lady and a hard working woman. When our cast had to spend Christmas on tour she arranged a party and gifts. A true class act. And every bit as stunning and talented as you’d think. A true star ❤
2:56 I know some people would think her voice sounded raspy and not as elegant as the rest of the song, but I feel like it shows true anger and I believe it showed more emotion.
As a singer It seems like she's letting the rasp out and it comes out a bit strong and unkempt but in the end when she brings the rasp in again it's more balanced. Sometimes when you sing you have to test the waters and make adjustments as you go. Going from clean tone to raspy tone is hard, the energy in your voice builds up as you sing in a clean voice and it's easy to let it out all at once.
This is my favorite version of the song, so perfectly performed to the lyrics. Since she sings this song every night, I’m not surprised she’s got such amazing command of every single nuance.
Lea and Ruthie are both wonderful singers. Lea has a golden voice and very emotive, and theatrical. BUT I think I would Go for Ruthie's version. Why? If I close my eyes and just listen to her, she doesn't seem to be performing onstage, she's like singing to herself about her hardships. You would imagine her as a lady with an unkempt look and a torn dress with tears on her cheeks. Her voice quality and the raspiness is that of a fading beauty, suffering, crying and feeling hopeless. She's a perfect Fantine. Lea is the perfect Eponine with a lovely, innocent, dreamy voice.
I clicked on your comment to see what the three responses were because I didn't get it...until I read the third one that KittyWhiteCat NA posted and THEN I fucking laughed my ass off!! Second line should read, "OMG, he was gone when Autumn came". ('Autumn' is a NAME, by capitalizing it, the meaning is clear!)
Every singer I've heard singing this has been great. . Comparisons are useless, all have their great versions. The only clear winner is the song itself.
I used to rent this VHS almost monthly from Blockbuster and would rewind Ruthie over and over before I could let the tape continue. Coming from a small town in New Mexico of 7,000 people I was always assured the 10th Anniversary concert would be there for me when I wanted to watch… I’ll never stop loving this version with all my heart. This is to me is the epitome of story telling through song at its apex.
@@jacobryanpaul2897 Welcome back! With all the ups and downs I'm going to guess you have enough great memories of NYC to last you a life time. I'm also going to guess that you'll be living in Albuquerque instead of the 7,000 pop. town you originally came from here in NM. PS: I was originally lead to this particular video because of comparing different versions. Heads up on a young lady (only 20years old) that sings a killer version of I Dreamed A Dream. Her name is Lucy Thomas. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. Take Care!
This is the definitive I Dreamed A Dream. Her voice perfectly encapsulates the sadness, the regret, the pain, and the longing of a life that could have been.
Absolutely no one who has ever performed this can compare to this flawless rendition of the song. No one can ever equal Ruthie Henshall. I listen to all the others, and then return to Ruthie. Bravo, Ruthie. You will live in history!
There’s an increasing trend in musical theater that in order to express emotion, one must sing as poorly as possible. Ruthie Henshall delivers the most beautiful and heart wrenching rendition of this stone ever performed with impeccable technique and breath support.
There really is no performance of this song that is better than this one! I haven’t heard one that is better for before or after this recording. Ruthie Henshall is a legend and this moment is one of her greatest of all time!
"Now life has killed the dream....... I dreamed." The lyrics to this song are so good -- and so tragic, and Ruthie is the best I've ever heard singing it.
Live on theater you'd have had company. Watching this on orchestra seats there wasn't a dry eye, and I recall a lady one over from me just literally holding back her wailing
I think this is the best version of this song because Ruthie manages to make it sound sorrowful and heart-broken, but not whiny nor pathetic. She keeps control over her voice, as did Fantine keep her pride and dignity no matter what.
Heard the song enough times, but never really listened. First time I ever really listened was when Ruthie sang this. First time I ever really listened to the lyrics too, and those last two lines just had me crying real deep.
There was a time when men were kind When their voices were soft And their words inviting There was a time when love was blind And the world was a song And the song was exciting There was a time Then it all went wrong I dreamed a dream in times gone by When hope was high and life worth living I dreamed, that love would never die I dreamed that God would be forgiving Then I was young and unafraid And dreams were made and used and wasted There was no ransom to be paid No song unsung, no wine untasted But the tigers come at night With their voices soft as thunder As they tear your hope apart As they turn your dream to shame He slept a summer by my side He filled my days with endless wonder He took my childhood in his stride But he was gone when autumn came And still I dream he'll come to me That we will live the years together But there are dreams that cannot be And there are storms we cannot weather I had a dream my life would be So different from this hell I'm living So different now from what it seemed Now life has killed the dream I dreamed
September 2024 and we’ve just been to Les Mis at the Sondheim theatre in London. Fantine was played by Katie Hall and we were very impressed by her I dreamed a dream, almost as good as Ruth’s!
This performance is haunting. I grew up watching this. I always thought she was older here due to the way she sings this. The emotion in her voice is way beyond her years. It’s my favourite ever performance of this song. No one can touch her. Stunning.
I retired as a deputy sheriff last year April when I retired. I told myself I was gonna start to get more culture or arts saw my first play, wicked and loved it. I bought tickets for me and a guy that I am seeing to see Les Miserables. I told him when this song comes on not to laugh when I start crying looking forward to seeing this place in East Lansing, Michigan.
No other version can ever beat this one. Ruthie not only sings marvelously, she makes you feel the rush and the pain of the lyrics with her amazing control of her own voice. The best ever.
Got to see her in NYC. Met her after the show and she was SO generous! She was with her mom and baby and spent about 20 minutes talking and introducing me to her family and even let me hold the baby. The most down to earth and genuine person! And of course by far one of the BEST voices in the world!!!❤
Her slow creep into the vibrato during the word "stride" immediately before the incredible shift in the Autumn line is what really gets me. I feel that her vibrato is more "tasteful" than other performances. The intensity of that section is just unmatched by the majority of other performances.
This is quite literally the most devastatingly beautiful performance I’ve personally seen. I can’t properly articulate what this video has done to me. I’ve watched it before and I have always remembered it being an immensely emotional experience. But, Jesus Christ. I would sit through 50 musicals just to see a single song on par with this. This is the pinnacle of what makes being a human being magical. Absolutely beautiful.
As a little girl, i absolutely loved this series. It has stayed with me all my life. I am 63 now. I would love to see it again. I grew up and have spent my life in the UK. Thank you Australia. 😢❤😊
Toxodos That was the best part. You completely feel for her at that point where you know they lied to her and destroyed her with that one line and the way she conveyed it.
This is still the best delivery of this solo, in my opinion. Ruthie was prime for this performance. She's like a medalist for this here, and no one... not even herself, has topped it since.
Ruthie Henshall catches the Pain and the desperation of her Character , Fantine . This rendition of I HAD A DREAM is absolutely fantastic and beautiful .
Here's my opinion, since there are people out there comparing Ms. Ruthie and Ms. Lea. I believe Ruthie's voice fits perfectly with Fantine. Her voice is what a 'woman who's fate is to become a prostitute for the sake of her daughter's support' would have. On the other hand, Lea's voice is, for me, "too clean" (ykwim?) for the role of Fantine. I think her technically profound voice and the innocence in her voice is well suited for a role like Eponine's (imo). Nevertheless, I think both have done an amazing job supporting the role, but I'd go with Ms. Ruthie's voice for Fantine. The texture of her voice and her vocal tonality just screams Fantine.
Anne cried and we cried, and Ruthie not crying made us all cry. Anne was in a play, Ruthie was in a concert. And even in both contexts the weight is equal and well delivered. (!!!!)
Ruthie was the real deal. Raw, unedited talent. This woman can sing damn it! Anne was good, but she had mixers, producers and autotune. Ruthie just has her RAW voice! She is amazingly talented.
In my opinion they were very different. Anne was crying all the way showing she couldnt resist anymore. Ruthie is a lit stronger showing melancholy while remembering her story. No need of crying.
Anne's performance was what made the play an actual product of art. I never watched a musical with moving performance until I watched Anne did her part there. And everybody I know who've watch it agrees. Les Mis with Anne in it has been the best musical ever.
Anne showed those who watched that she couldn't handle the weight that she was carrying anymore and she showed us the vulnerability. I think that even though Ruthie sang very beautifully, Anne made people realize that there are actual women who suffer the same fate as Fantine and in that moment, she carried the same pain as them.
Its a friendly reminder that we do live in a better of time. Victor Hugo the original writer changed hearts based on real life experience during those times. I salute the french people. They have a powerful soul.
For me, Ruthie was the total package. Every rendition of this song and performance were very spectacular...but Ruthie had it all, the perfect voice for the emotion needed during that very moment of the scene. The perfect gestures and facial expressions, her acting skills, they're superb. She didn't just brought us the best performance, but the moment, the feelings and the Fantine herself. :'(
Arriving home at night time, looking at the stars and the endless darkness of the night.. thinking about all the things that couldn't be... all the dreams that were broken, and wondering about the meaning of everything... Yet, life waits for no one and you must keep up on going. Pain never goes away, we just learn to live with it.
At 3:45 , her transition from mix chest to head voice was sooooo perfect it's actually not noticeable. I can't believe no one is talking about that. Ruthie has so much musicality and technicality as well as all the members of the cast. You can't really beat the "DREAM CAST"
Of all the versions of this song I’ve heard (and there have been many), this is by far my personal favourite. True, many other female vocalists have been technically very competent, but Miss Henshall puts her heart and spirit into every word she sings. She conveys genuine emotion and pathos while bringing the character of Fantine to life. I especially appreciate the fact that she didn’t attempt to rush through her performance, but gives the audience the opportunity to reflect on each word. Truly an outstanding achievement.
What is it about humanity and You Tube comments? Why is it so difficult to appreciate both Ruthie Henshall and Anne Hathaway and what they bring to the song? Their performances are totally different and BOTH move me. We created music, theater, art, etc to connect to our emotions. That, I think, it what makes us human, all of us.
I don’t even like Theater and musicals, but, more often than not, I find myself listening to this performance. It’s hauntingly beautiful and really please me. 🙌🏼
What I love about this song is how you don’t have to see the musical to understand. It’s sad with or without context & it’s relatable. When I’m really sad I play this song 😭
Me: I should really go to sleep My stupid brain: Hey why don’t you listen to this song on repeat and cry your eyes out and then wake up with a massive headache? Y’know, feel something. Me, already sobbing: I TOLD YOU I DON’T LIKE HAVING EMOTIONS WHY DO YOU TORTURE ME LIKE THIS
I woke up with bits of this song coursing round my brain. I needed to hear it. Ms Henshall does not disappoint. I have long hoped that Helene Fischer would sing this song. For no other reason that she has been my favourite singer for ten years. Instead, she now spends her time f***ing about on a trapeze. Ye gods. Three months ago, the trapeze attacked her, and spoiled one of the most beautiful faces which I had ever seen. In time, the scar will no doubt fade. But insofar as this is a song about lost possibilities, (as, I suppose, are many), I have thought about it often, in connection with Helene Fischer. Already an old man, I shall go to my grave with huge gaps in my musical pleasure. Huge gaps in what might have been.
+Dave Browne I didn't say it as a ironic.and I never slit my wrists even if I'm depressed.you should not worry about something like that you are too self-conscious.
![Lea Salonga - On My Own (Les Misérables) [720p]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/VjfmP7h3gBw/mqdefault.jpg)
![Lea Salonga - On My Own (Les Misérables) [720p]](/img/tr.png)
Ruthie is my favorite Fantine... EVER! 💕😭👏👏👏
💕
😮@@Sharon-kr1ui
Same here!
I worked as an usher at the Palace Theatre for Les Mis and would hear this every night and Ruthie Henshall gave an identically perfect performance of this song each and every time. It was always flawless. She's amazing.
So you got paid and watched performances for free?
Why would anyone pay for tickets when they could just apply for a job? lol
Best.job.ever
@@sashap1547 it was, I loved it. The Palace Theatre was a nice atmospheric place to work as well. I used to stand behind the sound engineers desk and watch him working the massive mixer, he turned everyone's mics up and down in real time and looked like he was playing an instrument. After there I went to usher at the RSC Barbican Center, Comedy of Errors was on at the time which was a lot of fun to see. They designed that production in a very trippy colourful way.
She was autotuned everyone knows. Lol.
@@elliottgreenwood5543 It was a mixer desk which only did volume. Every singer was miked-up with a tiny head mic, they had to turn them up and down so the only thing which came through the system was those singing at the time. The moment someone stopped singing their fader came down and someone else's was pushed up. There was no auto-tune or processing of any kind going on.
2024. returning to listen, l still think this the best version ever.
It is the best version ever. She is unmatched.
@@hiskidkeller no question
Best version ever.
Came back here to say the same. I’ve heard other versions, but Ruthie’s to me is still the best.
In tears. Agreeing
"...gone when autumn came" is not anger. It is the deepest sorrow. Notice that shortly thereafter, she says that still she dreams he'll come back to her. It is love...with a deeply broken heart.
Les Miserables is a story after the fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. 2 things actually depicts who the guy is. Either he got killed and was never able to get back or he was just really messing with the girl who trusted him so much
Yes... the irony. You don't feel anger but so deep sorrow that almost seems like anger.
Yes!!! Sorrow ( if he died maybe) or maybe disappointment (if he was just messing with her feelings)
Time stamp?
Exactly, is desperation and sorrow!!!!
The roughness of her voice used in "but he was gone when Autum came" and "so different from this hell I'm living" really helps hit home the anger and hurt she must feel! It's my favourite part of the performance!
It's one of the most titular parts of singing. It requires feeling
Same man
Serendipity
Agree. I keep looping it on those lines
Absolutely class
The best version, hands down. Such passion in her voice.
It's 2023 and this still remains as the best version of this song by a million miles. The famous "autumn" line is still unmatched.
Hands down. I can't believe some people have the audacity to claim that Anne Hathaway is better than this simply because of her acting. Ruthie exhibits such intense emotion and Beauty in her voice that one weaps
I agree completely.
In its entirety, the 10th anniversary Albert version still the best.
@@primalcritters Not even close. Ruthie out performed every other person who ever attempted this song. It truelly was the dream cast.
@@primalcrittersdo they really. What an insult to Ruthie Henshaw. This will forever be my favorite rendition of this song.
Totally!
The growling, then the soft singing, the falsetto, the belting... this definitely took an enormous vocal control.... Her performance is superb and so moving
I hate to be one of those nerds but females (I say females because this excludes trans women) cannot go into falsetto. They just go into head voice when they open their glottis. But I agree, this is an earth shattering performance
Agreed; Not just vocal control but a beautiful talent as far as imagination!
She never employed falsetto?
“But he was GONE when autumn came...” so much anger. Way to go
No anger...he was gone..
She should be happy she got knocked up and he left her...
Anger is not good for the body health though
I suppose being young and inexperienced its not outwith the way of things for a young woman to be duped by an older asswipe....regardless, she dreams he will return...thats just ...really.....he'll come to me....fantine was obviously a bit short of a centime....love the song though, i thought the rendition of i dreamed a dream by Miss Hathaway was outstanding...a bit grotty and beautiful....Russel Crowe was shit...destroyed the film...anyway...love from Scotland...x. Joe
I mean, autumn seems to enjoy their time in bed more, can't blame him.
Absolutely the best rendition of this song. The emotion in her voice lets you the listener understand the pain she is feeling.
Anyone can sing a song, but only a true artist can sing a song where the listener feels the pain and joy in a song.
Bravo to this lady. She absolutely killed this song!
nothing can compare to this.nothing
Personally, I think Lea Salonga displays a more extensive range of emotions in her rendition, although Ruthie's is also perfection.
@@thomashayes5597 I agree. I've just watched about 5 renditions of this song by different women and I look to see who is 'feeling' the words. In this one, Ruthie is feeling it vocally but outwardly is glass, no expression. Lea Salonga expresses emotion not only vocally, but visually. Even Susan Boyle (the least professional among them) showed more visual emotion.
no I think it should be sung _sec_ without attempts at emotional articulation
the chord progression does all the work that needs to be done here
@@nyrockchicxx ...Anne Hathaway has more emotion than Lea Salonga. Ruhtie's rendition is the most heartwreanching, most heartbreaking there is. Period. There's no need for visual expression, voice does it all. How it breaks at certain moments, how it strengthens at others. Perfection.
This performance is the the epitome of trusting the music to tell the story.
well yes its a musical
@@boppob1343 Is it? Brand new information that is.
Susan Boyle smashed this performance
is really is the the
An epic performance
No one ever sang it better than her. Perfection.
So is nobody gonna note how phenomenal the orchestra is?
They are amazing
Beautiful
noted
No disrespect, but what do you expect? These people are career professionals with DECADES of training, study, performing and practice; but they do deserve a mention.
True, but to be honest it really isn’t the hardest piece to play.
2:23 "As they turn your dream to shame".... that weak sound on the word "turn" in contrast to the strong previous line "as they tear your hope apart", just melts my heart... so beautiful!!! WHY IS NOBODY TALKING ABOUT THIS?
Here during quarantine
The emotions portrayed are simply unreal... outstanding performance. And yes when she whispers the word “ turn”, I feel the tears coming down my checks.
Les Miserables is a story after the fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. 2 things actually depicts who the guy is. Either he got killed and was never able to get back or he was just really messing with the girl who trusted him so much
Totally agree
I hear ya
Her voice when she growls. I'm in love with everything. Best Fantine, hands down.
Nusra Rozely was she the original cast?
Clement Ng unfortunately she wasn't the original fantine, someone else was but Ruthie is far better
It's AMAZING!!
Nusra Rozely
Patti LuPone was the original Fantine in the London cast.
In my opinion, this is not only the greatest song in the entire music theater canon, it is one of the great songs of mankind. And this performance is utterly breathtaking.
No dance moves , No gymnastics , No lights flashing , just a Pure unmatchable voice filled with emotion \\ Ruthie Henshall is fantastic
I had the luck to work with Ruthie. She is every inch a lady and a hard working woman. When our cast had to spend Christmas on tour she arranged a party and gifts. A true class act. And every bit as stunning and talented as you’d think. A true star ❤
Great to know about her!
2:56 I know some people would think her voice sounded raspy and not as elegant as the rest of the song, but I feel like it shows true anger and I believe it showed more emotion.
it's so raw! she rips you apart!!
Yes, it's meant to show the pain she felt.
it's flawless
As a singer It seems like she's letting the rasp out and it comes out a bit strong and unkempt but in the end when she brings the rasp in again it's more balanced. Sometimes when you sing you have to test the waters and make adjustments as you go. Going from clean tone to raspy tone is hard, the energy in your voice builds up as you sing in a clean voice and it's easy to let it out all at once.
this was beautiful!
This is my favorite version of the song, so perfectly performed to the lyrics. Since she sings this song every night, I’m not surprised she’s got such amazing command of every single nuance.
This is the epitome of "less is more". No flailing, no syrupy pathos, just singing and letting the emotion find its own path.
Apsolutely. Because she holds lack it all wells up
Also, the orchestra did amazing!
“He took my childhood in his stride” That line always hits so hard for me, especially the way she delivers it…
“So different from this hell I’m living…”
The way she sang that line (as well as the rest of the song) was pure mastery.
The way she hits, "but he was gone when autumn came." It hits you nerves differently. RESPECT.
unreal. she's a wizard
You mean a witch?
a wizard lol?
A witch you mean-
@卩ㄩ丂丂ㄚ 丂ㄥ卂ㄚ乇尺 9000 bruh what-
_"You're a wizard Harry..."_
Lea and Ruthie are both wonderful singers. Lea has a golden voice and very emotive, and theatrical. BUT I think I would Go for Ruthie's version. Why? If I close my eyes and just listen to her, she doesn't seem to be performing onstage, she's like singing to herself about her hardships. You would imagine her as a lady with an unkempt look and a torn dress with tears on her cheeks. Her voice quality and the raspiness is that of a fading beauty, suffering, crying and feeling hopeless. She's a perfect Fantine. Lea is the perfect Eponine with a lovely, innocent, dreamy voice.
Agree, she does the most moving version ever.
Exactly, it's the gutwrenchting feeling she portrays
I cry each time I hear Ruthie sing this touching song.
Exactly! Some performers are singing to hit every note perfectly, some other to convey emotion.
I think you nailed it.
*"But he was gone when autumn came"*
Omg he was gone when autumn came
Violett Bellerose hi from Mexico 🇲🇽
But he'd come again, every Spring for the Summer.
Hey this is a sad song how dare you make me laugh
I clicked on your comment to see what the three responses were because I didn't get it...until I read the third one that KittyWhiteCat NA posted and THEN I fucking laughed my ass off!! Second line should read, "OMG, he was gone when Autumn came".
('Autumn' is a NAME, by capitalizing it, the meaning is clear!)
omg they were roommates
Ruthie took this song, and made it hers . The gold standard for Fantine.
Every singer I've heard singing this has been great. . Comparisons are useless, all have their great versions. The only clear winner is the song itself.
gruntz99
B
I
N
G
O
👏🏿
Magnificent!
The song itself... And Ruthie Henshall obviously. 😉
Worst being Lea Salonga. Too extra by far.
Too bad Ruthie can't sing anymore. :-(
Her diction, her enunciation, is amazing! So crystal clear.
+Rupert Lescott LOL The Broadway style is stupid. But the girl is perfect.
+Rupert Lescott agreed. other versions tend to run the words and tune together.
yess she is so lovely!
+Rupert Lescott To me, she's the Fantine
Rupert Lescott Thats one way to be a quality vocalist. Her hands by her side help keep her diaphram relaxed. All keys for high end sound.
Flawless performance. No one has ever topped this version.
I used to rent this VHS almost monthly from Blockbuster and would rewind Ruthie over and over before I could let the tape continue. Coming from a small town in New Mexico of 7,000 people I was always assured the 10th Anniversary concert would be there for me when I wanted to watch… I’ll never stop loving this version with all my heart. This is to me is the epitome of story telling through song at its apex.
Good taste in music....greetings from a different part of NM (Santa Fe). 👍
@@nwicconsultants6640 I just moved back to NM after 16 years in NYC. Uncanny and welcome timing! :-)
@@jacobryanpaul2897 Welcome back! With all the ups and downs I'm going to guess you have enough great memories of NYC to last you a life time. I'm also going to guess that you'll be living in Albuquerque instead of the 7,000 pop. town you originally came from here in NM.
PS: I was originally lead to this particular video because of comparing different versions. Heads up on a young lady (only 20years old) that sings a killer version of I Dreamed A Dream. Her name is Lucy Thomas. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. Take Care!
This is the definitive I Dreamed A Dream. Her voice perfectly encapsulates the sadness, the regret, the pain, and the longing of a life that could have been.
OMG ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!!? THIS IS THE SIMPLY AMAZING!!! THE PASSION IS PIERCING!
The way she said "So much different from this hell I'm living" chilling..
In my opinion she will always be the best Fantine ever.
A fact
💯
Absolutely no one who has ever performed this can compare to this flawless rendition of the song. No one can ever equal Ruthie Henshall. I listen to all the others, and then return to Ruthie. Bravo, Ruthie. You will live in history!
No one can compare to her base on your preference, not all will agree with you.
I agree with you
Susan Boyle
@@22especget in!
Watch Lea Salonga
There’s an increasing trend in musical theater that in order to express emotion, one must sing as poorly as possible. Ruthie Henshall delivers the most beautiful and heart wrenching rendition of this stone ever performed with impeccable technique and breath support.
There really is no performance of this song that is better than this one! I haven’t heard one that is better for before or after this recording. Ruthie Henshall is a legend and this moment is one of her greatest of all time!
It sucks when you wake up one day and realize this song is your life.
I hope you're in a better place, year on
it would be amazing to find out how many of us feel that way
Straight to my heart, "this hell I'm living" is now my reality
I am 32 year old man standing in my kitchen cooking dinner hearing this for the first time…. Crying…. I’m not cutting onions
"Now life has killed the dream....... I dreamed." The lyrics to this song are so good -- and so tragic, and Ruthie is the best I've ever heard singing it.
First time? Oh man! Envious of that 😁
❤❤❤
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Live on theater you'd have had company. Watching this on orchestra seats there wasn't a dry eye, and I recall a lady one over from me just literally holding back her wailing
I think this is the best version of this song because Ruthie manages to make it sound sorrowful and heart-broken, but not whiny nor pathetic. She keeps control over her voice, as did Fantine keep her pride and dignity no matter what.
Beautiful rendition. The last two lines always choke me up.
Heard the song enough times, but never really listened. First time I ever really listened was when Ruthie sang this. First time I ever really listened to the lyrics too, and those last two lines just had me crying real deep.
There was a time when men were kind
When their voices were soft
And their words inviting
There was a time when love was blind
And the world was a song
And the song was exciting
There was a time
Then it all went wrong
I dreamed a dream in times gone by
When hope was high and life worth living
I dreamed, that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving
Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used and wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung, no wine untasted
But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
As they turn your dream to shame
He slept a summer by my side
He filled my days with endless wonder
He took my childhood in his stride
But he was gone when autumn came
And still I dream he'll come to me
That we will live the years together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms we cannot weather
I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living
So different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed the dream
I dreamed
Not all heros wear capes! Thank you!
Thank you Jasmine.
The whimper in her voice when she sang "as they turn your dream" was just heart wrenching.
When she sings the story is told so heartbreakingly. She isn’t focused on herself and her talent. She transports you into her heart.
September 2024 and we’ve just been to Les Mis at the Sondheim theatre in London. Fantine was played by Katie Hall and we were very impressed by her I dreamed a dream, almost as good as Ruth’s!
This has been the gold standard of this song for about 20 years now. Ruthie owns this.
yes. she. does.
james brown Joe crocker utube
Amen to that.
Ruthie doesn't play Fantine; she IS Fantine.
This performance is haunting. I grew up watching this. I always thought she was older here due to the way she sings this. The emotion in her voice is way beyond her years. It’s my favourite ever performance of this song. No one can touch her. Stunning.
I retired as a deputy sheriff last year April when I retired. I told myself I was gonna start to get more culture or arts saw my first play, wicked and loved it. I bought tickets for me and a guy that I am seeing to see Les Miserables. I told him when this song comes on not to laugh when I start crying looking forward to seeing this place in East Lansing, Michigan.
This is by far and away the best version of this ever performed.
No other version can ever beat this one. Ruthie not only sings marvelously, she makes you feel the rush and the pain of the lyrics with her amazing control of her own voice.
The best ever.
This is almost surreal. This is the greatest rendition of this song in my opinion.
Got to see her in NYC. Met her after the show and she was SO generous! She was with her mom and baby and spent about 20 minutes talking and introducing me to her family and even let me hold the baby. The most down to earth and genuine person! And of course by far one of the BEST voices in the world!!!❤
Ruthie Henshall for the winner of Im A Celeb 2020!
Yes she is amazing. I hope she wins Im A Celeb.
yes she is amazing on there. you can tell she is really down to earth
This is the finest performance of this magnificent song....
She was almost going out yesterday 😭😭😭😭
@@cocomontresebeast2210 noo it said "IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER"
Means that it could have been anyone who had less votes as her
Her slow creep into the vibrato during the word "stride" immediately before the incredible shift in the Autumn line is what really gets me. I feel that her vibrato is more "tasteful" than other performances. The intensity of that section is just unmatched by the majority of other performances.
This is quite literally the most devastatingly beautiful performance I’ve personally seen. I can’t properly articulate what this video has done to me. I’ve watched it before and I have always remembered it being an immensely emotional experience.
But, Jesus Christ. I would sit through 50 musicals just to see a single song on par with this. This is the pinnacle of what makes being a human being magical. Absolutely beautiful.
As a little girl, i absolutely loved this series. It has stayed with me all my life. I am 63 now. I would love to see it again. I grew up and have spent my life in the UK. Thank you Australia. 😢❤😊
I don't care what anyone says..Ruthie sings this the best. she makes the song that much more beautiful!
I agree, when I saw her perform this she made it her song 190%!
my heart breaks along with her voice, when she sings "but he was gone when autumn came"
Brilliant performance
Toxodos That was the best part. You completely feel for her at that point where you know they lied to her and destroyed her with that one line and the way she conveyed it.
agreed. can't define the chills everytime
The emotion is completely shown. superb!
This is still the best delivery of this solo, in my opinion. Ruthie was prime for this performance. She's like a medalist for this here, and no one... not even herself, has topped it since.
Indeed. I don't think it's humanly possible to sing this any better.
Ruthie Henshall catches the Pain and the desperation of her Character , Fantine . This rendition of I HAD A DREAM is absolutely fantastic and beautiful .
I absolutely agree with you!
100% agree. The best version I have ever heard.
Here's my opinion, since there are people out there comparing Ms. Ruthie and Ms. Lea.
I believe Ruthie's voice fits perfectly with Fantine. Her voice is what a 'woman who's fate is to become a prostitute for the sake of her daughter's support' would have.
On the other hand, Lea's voice is, for me, "too clean" (ykwim?) for the role of Fantine. I think her technically profound voice and the innocence in her voice is well suited for a role like Eponine's (imo).
Nevertheless, I think both have done an amazing job supporting the role, but I'd go with Ms. Ruthie's voice for Fantine. The texture of her voice and her vocal tonality just screams Fantine.
Anne cried and we cried, and Ruthie not crying made us all cry. Anne was in a play, Ruthie was in a concert. And even in both contexts the weight is equal and well delivered. (!!!!)
Anne crying all through the song ruined the beauty of the music. She ruined the song. Ruthie was perfect.
Ruthie was the real deal. Raw, unedited talent. This woman can sing damn it! Anne was good, but she had mixers, producers and autotune. Ruthie just has her RAW voice! She is amazingly talented.
In my opinion they were very different. Anne was crying all the way showing she couldnt resist anymore. Ruthie is a lit stronger showing melancholy while remembering her story. No need of crying.
Anne's performance was what made the play an actual product of art. I never watched a musical with moving performance until I watched Anne did her part there. And everybody I know who've watch it agrees.
Les Mis with Anne in it has been the best musical ever.
Anne showed those who watched that she couldn't handle the weight that she was carrying anymore and she showed us the vulnerability. I think that even though Ruthie sang very beautifully, Anne made people realize that there are actual women who suffer the same fate as Fantine and in that moment, she carried the same pain as them.
Ruthie Henshall is perfect.
Derukugi2 She was the best Fantine casted so far.
+Chibi Lychee " Cast "
Raoul Carggarglin Oh, you're right. "Casted" isn't even word.... Fail on my end... -_-()
Brings me to tears everytime! Both from memories and the beauty of the lyrics!
😢
Its a friendly reminder that we do live in a better of time. Victor Hugo the original writer changed hearts based on real life experience during those times. I salute the french people. They have a powerful soul.
This is what perfection sounds like
This is so powerful, I can't even put my words together...
I love how you describe it like that. I can't either. But I can feel it.
Gettalife that’s what great music is supposed to do. I have goosebumps.
You did a good job trying.
@@deanndrakaydee123 Because it comes straight from the marrow. Articulated from the soul into flesh made timeless from the ineffable!
When her voice breaks out of sorrow (especially at 2:57), I feel all the anguish she's going through... It's moving
+Walter Palazzin Also at 3:24 she is the best.
Walter Palazzin this is 'drive' not break
Actually, I think she can reproduce that sound and make her voice break that way. It's the skill of her vocal cords plus long training....
Got chills as I heard her. Amazing.
Walter Palazzin x
This is exactly the way this song is supposed to sound.
Perfect. Iconic. No other version tops this.
For me, Ruthie was the total package. Every rendition of this song and performance were very spectacular...but Ruthie had it all, the perfect voice for the emotion needed during that very moment of the scene. The perfect gestures and facial expressions, her acting skills, they're superb. She didn't just brought us the best performance, but the moment, the feelings and the Fantine herself. :'(
Not acting skills , she lived the song
This song is not fit in lea salonga voice. But you can try ruthie if her voice can fit Mulan song 🤣
Ruthie's rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" always makes me cry. I can feel the broken heartedness.
The way she sang “But he was gone when autumn came” is otherworldly…you could really feel it bro was gone Lol😂 What an incredible songbird.
All the women who I have watched sing this song were excellent but Ruthie has done it the best my view of course..
Arriving home at night time, looking at the stars and the endless darkness of the night.. thinking about all the things that couldn't be... all the dreams that were broken, and wondering about the meaning of everything... Yet, life waits for no one and you must keep up on going. Pain never goes away, we just learn to live with it.
❤
Go to jw.org and search "what is the purpose of life". You'll find satisfying answer.
@@eveevanderwalt3995 No you won't.
@@eveevanderwalt3995 42?
I want this printed on one of my tshirts
watched all versions. this is by far the one thas got me in tears
Demi lovato let it go
I love it when a singer performs with all his/her heart and soul... You can really feel her pain in this. Breath-taking performance.
+Andressa Lopes She is perfect, and should have married me.
The mixture of emotions from heartbreak, to anger , to despair gives this song the emotional impact this song deserves. Well done. Ruthie!!
I just actually listen to this beautiful song over and over again did some research crying with love now
何年経っても、色々なキャストを生で見ても、私にはこの方のファンテーヌが一番です。この一曲だけで涙が溢れてくる。
ファンテーヌの心の傷、苦悩、自分への失望、それでも夢を見てしまう純粋さ、あどけなさ、愚かさ、そして彼女の人生の儚さ、全てが一曲に表現されていて、心が揺さぶられる。
こんなファンテーヌを生で見たい。でも、この動画を見れただけで、幸せです。ずっとずっと大好きなファンテーヌです。
At 3:45 , her transition from mix chest to head voice was sooooo perfect it's actually not noticeable. I can't believe no one is talking about that. Ruthie has so much musicality and technicality as well as all the members of the cast. You can't really beat the "DREAM CAST"
Thank you for saying this. I am unschooled, but it was obvious, and hugely impressive. I couldn't put it to words. Flawless. Be well!
Of all the versions of this song I’ve heard (and there have been many), this is by far my personal favourite. True, many other female vocalists have been technically very competent, but Miss Henshall puts her heart and spirit into every word she sings. She conveys genuine emotion and pathos while bringing the character of Fantine to life. I especially appreciate the fact that she didn’t attempt to rush through her performance, but gives the audience the opportunity to reflect on each word. Truly an outstanding achievement.
What is it about humanity and You Tube comments? Why is it so difficult to appreciate both Ruthie Henshall and Anne Hathaway and what they bring to the song? Their performances are totally different and BOTH move me. We created music, theater, art, etc to connect to our emotions. That, I think, it what makes us human, all of us.
This shows how wonderful and extraordinary human beings can be. Amazing.
The best version ever
But there are dreams that cannot be, and there are storms we cannot weather 💔😔
I don’t even like Theater and musicals, but, more often than not, I find myself listening to this performance. It’s hauntingly beautiful and really please me. 🙌🏼
I was the same. Didn't care for musicals. But if you ever get the opportunity. I highly highly recommend seeing this live. Its mind blowingly good!!
This is perfection, and perfection should never have the applause cut out.
What a great singer. Her voice is unbelievably gorgeous. I especially love the scratchy parts. Just fabulous.
The single greatest rendition of this song ever....period
What I love about this song is how you don’t have to see the musical to understand. It’s sad with or without context & it’s relatable. When I’m really sad I play this song 😭
I’m 31 and I feel like she just sang my emotions. It’s crazy how we get so caught up in life we don’t even notice the moment our dreams die
a powerful performance !!!! Great show !!!
You are still the best of all the Fantines in Le Miserables! I absolutely love your voice and performance!!
Ruthie owns this song like no other. Love it.
Me: I should really go to sleep
My stupid brain: Hey why don’t you listen to this song on repeat and cry your eyes out and then wake up with a massive headache? Y’know, feel something.
Me, already sobbing: I TOLD YOU I DON’T LIKE HAVING EMOTIONS WHY DO YOU TORTURE ME LIKE THIS
Wow I thought it was just me
*That moment when you cry so much you give yourself a headache*
literally doing this rn
Oh oh
Me right this second at one in the morning
I woke up with bits of this song coursing round my brain.
I needed to hear it.
Ms Henshall does not disappoint.
I have long hoped that Helene Fischer would sing this song.
For no other reason that she has been my favourite singer for ten years.
Instead, she now spends her time f***ing about on a trapeze.
Ye gods.
Three months ago, the trapeze attacked her, and spoiled one of the most beautiful faces which I had ever seen.
In time, the scar will no doubt fade.
But insofar as this is a song about lost possibilities, (as, I suppose, are many), I have thought about it often, in connection with Helene Fischer.
Already an old man, I shall go to my grave with huge gaps in my musical pleasure. Huge gaps in what might have been.
This is marveous because she has a godlike voice and she makes every single word come to play - she tells the story with timeless perfection.
Bravo! Her voice is undoubtedly amazing.when I'm depressed, I listen to this song.
+Dave Browne I didn't say it as a ironic.and I never slit my wrists even if I'm depressed.you should not worry about something like that you are too self-conscious.
Noelia A when I'm depressed I listen to Falco's Rock Me Amadeus- more uplifting!
3:45 i love the switch from chest to falsetto/head voice.. it makes it more emotional 😪
A pure and beautiful rendition.