Book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble.
Based on the film, 42nd Street and the novel by Bradford Ropes.
Music and lyrics by Al Dubin and Harry Warren.
Licensing Agent: Tams-Witmark.
The original Broadway production opened on 25 August 1980 and was directed and choreographed by Gower Champion.
The production closed on 8 January 1989, running for a total of 3 486 performances.
Mounting a revival of 42nd Street seemed a bit premature--after all, the show had closed in 1989 after nearly nine years on Broadway. But as a giddy love letter to the musical theater, it can't be beat, so we're not going to complain. Inspired by Busby Berkeley's movie, the show includes one great Warren-Dubin number after another, making it a feast of titanium-plated hits that include "You're Getting to Be a Habit with Me," "Dames," "We're in the Money," "Lullaby of Broadway," and, of course, the title song. The leads are on the bland side, but the rest of the cast--most notably Mary Testa, Jonathan Freeman, and 2001 Tony-winner Christine Ebersole--has more than enough spunk to fuel this revival. This is one of the most joyous albums you're likely to hear in a while. Just close your eyes and prepare to be swept into a wondrous world of sassy dames and high-kickin' chorus girls. |
