Rediscovering Drew Sarich: A Mesmerizing Performance at Hollywood in Vienna 2022

Rediscovering Drew Sarich: A Mesmerizing Performance at Hollywood in Vienna 2022

The other day, while casually scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon a video that immediately caught my attention. It was a performance by Drew Sarich, an artist I have admired for years. The moment I pressed play, I was transported into a world of theatrical magic. The song? Poor Unfortunate Souls from The Little Mermaid. The power in his voice, the intensity of his expression—it all reminded me of just how brilliant he is. And let’s be honest, this song is already a masterpiece on its own, but in Sarich’s hands, it became something extraordinary.

Hollywood in Vienna 2022: Poor Unfortunate Souls

Hollywood in Vienna is an annual celebration of film music, bringing together some of the most talented musicians and vocalists in the industry. In 2022, Drew Sarich took the stage to perform Poor Unfortunate Souls, Ursula’s iconic villain song from Disney’s The Little Mermaid. But this was no ordinary cover—Sarich infused it with a theatrical edge that gave the character a fresh, electrifying new life. His ability to blend his deep, dramatic tone with the playful wickedness of the song made it absolutely spellbinding.

As the performance began, Sarich didn’t immediately start on stage. Instead, he emerged from among the audience, his presence commanding attention from the very first note. The moment his deep, rich voice filled the concert hall, all eyes turned toward him. With a sly smirk and a dramatic glint in his eyes, he slowly and gracefully made his way toward the stage, sliding effortlessly into the character of Ursula. His movements were calculated, his charisma undeniable. He interacted with the audience, pulling them into the spell of the song before stepping onto the grand stage under the dazzling lights.

His outfit was nothing short of stunning—a deep, shimmering ensemble that captured the essence of Ursula’s dark yet mesmerizing aura. Paired with bold, theatrical makeup that highlighted his expressive features, Sarich embodied the sea witch with flair. Every gesture, every smirk, and every flick of his wrist added to the dramatic flair, making it an unforgettable performance.

For those unfamiliar with Drew Sarich, he is a powerhouse performer in musical theatre, known for his roles in Tanz der Vampire, Les Misérables, Rocky – The Musical, and Jesus Christ Superstar, among many others. He has a way of completely embodying every role he takes on, and his performance at Hollywood in Vienna was no exception.

What stood out the most in this performance was his commitment to storytelling. Every word, every note dripped with mischievous charm, making it impossible to look away. He didn’t just sing the song—he became Ursula. The audience was captivated, and so was I, even through a screen.

Who is Drew Sarich?

Drew Sarich is an American musical theatre actor and singer known for his deep, expressive voice and versatility on stage. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Sarich has built an impressive career performing in major productions across the United States and Europe. His notable roles include Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, the title role in Rocky – The Musical, Count von Krolock in Tanz der Vampire, and Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar. Fluent in multiple languages, Sarich has performed extensively in both English and German, making him a beloved figure in international musical theatre. Beyond the stage, he is also a talented songwriter and musician, having released his own original music.

Drew Sarich, American actor and singer

Fun Facts about Drew Sarich & Hollywood in Vienna

  • Drew Sarich has performed in multiple languages, including English, German, and French, making him a truly international musical star.
  • Hollywood in Vienna has been hosting legendary performances since 2007, celebrating the artistry of film music with live orchestra arrangements.
  • Poor Unfortunate Souls was originally sung by Pat Carroll in Disney’s The Little Mermaid (1989), and it remains one of the most beloved villain songs in Disney history.
  • Ursula's character was inspired by the drag queen Divine, which explains the song’s theatrical flair—something Sarich amplified brilliantly in his performance.
  • Drew Sarich played the title role in Rocky – The Musical in Germany, proving he can take on both villainous and heroic roles with equal intensity.
  • Sarich is also an accomplished musician and has released his own music, showcasing his versatility beyond the musical theatre stage.

Lyrics: Poor Unfortunate Souls

I admit that in the past I've been a nasty
They weren't kidding when they called me, well, a witch
But you'll find that nowadays
I've mended all my ways
Repented, seen the light and made a switch
True? Yes

And I fortunately know a little magic
It's a talent that I always have possessed
And here lately, please don't laugh
I use it on behalf
Of the miserable, lonely and depressed
(Pathetic)

Poor unfortunate souls
In pain
In need
This one longing to be thinner
That one wants to get the girl
And do I help them?
Yes, indeed

Those poor unfortunate souls
So sad, so true
They come flocking to my cauldron
Crying, "Spells, Ursula please!"
And I help them
Yes, I do

Now it's happened once or twice
Someone couldn't pay the price
And I'm afraid I had to rake 'em 'cross the coals
Yes, I've had the odd complaint
But on the whole I've been a saint
To those poor unfortunate souls

You'll have your looks!
Your pretty face!
And don't underestimate the importance of body language! Ha!

The men up there don't like a lot of blabber
They think a girl who gossips is a bore
Yes, on land it's much preferred
For ladies not to say a word
And, after all, dear, what is idle prattle for?

Come on, they're not all that impressed with conversation
True gentlemen avoid it when they can
But they dote and swoon and fawn
On a lady who's withdrawn
It's she who holds her tongue who gets her man

Come on, you poor unfortunate soul
Go ahead!
Make your choice!
I'm a very busy woman
And I haven't got all day
It won't cost much
Just your voice!

You poor unfortunate soul
It's sad
But true
If you want to cross a bridge, my sweet
You've got to pay the toll
Take a gulp and take a breath
And go ahead and sign the scroll!
Flotsam, Jetsam, now I've got her, boys
The boss is on a roll
This poor unfortunate soul!

//
Lyrics transcribed by Disneyclips.com

Music and Lyrics by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman
Performed by Pat Carroll as Ursula
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