The Complete Guide to 1940s Broadway Musicals

In the 1940s, Broadway musicals dominated the theatrical scene, captivating audiences with their enchanting music, dazzling choreography, and compelling storylines. This era marked the golden age of American musical theater, producing timeless classics that continue to enchant audiences to this day. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and explore the complete world of 1940s Broadway musicals.

The Birth of Iconic Musicals: A Look Back

The 1940s witnessed the birth of iconic Broadway musicals that would go on to captivate generations of theatergoers. Productions like "Oklahoma!" (1943), "Carousel" (1945), and "South Pacific" (1949) revolutionized the genre, introducing innovative storytelling techniques, groundbreaking choreography, and memorable musical scores that became instant classics.

"Oklahoma!" was the first collaboration between composer Richard Rodgers and librettist Oscar Hammerstein II. It brought a fresh perspective to the musical theater genre by embedding the songs seamlessly into the narrative, rather than allowing them to interrupt the plot. This immersive approach became a hallmark of their subsequent works.

The Complete Book of 1940s Broadway Musicals

by Dan Dietz (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3346 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	610 pages

FREE

Similarly, "Carousel" explored complex themes of love, redemption, and forgiveness, pushing the boundaries of what could be accomplished on stage. It introduced the concept of dance as a storytelling medium, with choreographer Agnes de Mille's groundbreaking ballet sequences adding depth and emotion to the narrative.

"South Pacific" tackled the sensitive topic of racial prejudice and featured an innovative score by Rodgers and Hammerstein that incorporated elements of jazz and traditional Polynesian music. It became an instant hit and went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

The Rise of Leading Ladies and Gentlemen

The 1940s saw the emergence of talented leading ladies and gentlemen who became synonymous with the era's Broadway musicals. These performers captivated audiences with their exceptional vocal talents, impeccable acting skills, and charismatic stage presence.

One such leading lady was Ethel Merman, who became renowned for her powerful and vibrant voice. She starred in several hit musicals of the era, including "Annie Get Your Gun" (1946) and "Call Me Madam" (1950), and her performances became truly iconic.

Another memorable leading lady of the 1940s was Mary Martin, who brought unforgettable performances to productions like "One Touch of Venus" (1943) and "South Pacific." Her angelic voice and natural charm endeared her to audiences, making her a beloved figure in the world of musical theater.

Leading men of the era, such as Alfred Drake, Howard Keel, and John Raitt, also captured the hearts of audiences with their captivating performances. Their powerful voices and charismatic stage presence brought iconic characters to life, securing their places in the annals of Broadway history.

The Legacy of 1940s Broadway Musicals

The legacy of 1940s Broadway musicals continues to influence and inspire modern theater productions. The groundbreaking storytelling techniques, memorable songs, and timeless themes explored in these productions paved the way for future generations of musical theater creators.

Many of these musicals have enjoyed successful revivals and adaptations, proving that their appeal transcends time. The unforgettable melodies of Rodgers and Hammerstein, the breathtaking choreography of Agnes de Mille, and the exceptional performances of leading actors and actresses have left an indelible mark on the world of musical theater.

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The 1940s Broadway musicals will forever be remembered as a golden era in American theater history. They brought groundbreaking innovations to the genre, pushed the boundaries of what could be accomplished on stage, and introduced talented performers who became legendary icons.

Whether you are a long-time musical theater enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Broadway, exploring the complete world of 1940s Broadway musicals is an enchanting journey into a bygone era filled with unforgettable melodies and captivating performances.

The Complete Book of 1940s Broadway Musicals

by Dan Dietz (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3346 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	610 pages

FREE

The debut of Oklahoma! in 1943 ushered in the modern era of Broadway musicals and was followed by a number of successes that have become beloved classics. Shows produced on Broadway during this decade include Annie Get Your Gun, Brigadoon, Carousel, Finian’s Rainbow, Pal Joey, On the Town, and South Pacific. Among the major performers of the decade were Alfred Drake, Gene Kelly, Mary Martin, and Ethel Merman, while other talents who contributed to shows include Irving Berlin, Gower Champion, Betty Comden, Adolph Green, Agnes de Mille, Lorenz Hart, Alan Jay Lerner, Frederick Loewe, Cole Porter, Jerome Robbins, Richard Rodgers, and Oscar Hammerstein II.

In The Complete Book of 1940s Broadway Musicals, Dan Dietz examines every musical and revue that opened on Broadway during the 1940s. In addition to providing details on every hit and flop, this book includes revivals and one-man and one-woman shows. Each entry contains the following information:

• Opening and closing dates

• Plot summary
• Cast members
• Number of performances
• Names of all important personnel, including writers, composers, directors, choreographers, producers, and musical directors
• Musical numbers and the names of performers who introduced the songs
• Production data, including information about tryouts
• Source material
• Critical commentary
• Details about London and other foreign productions

Besides separate entries for each production, the book offers numerous appendixes, such as a discography, film versions, published scripts, Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, and non-musical productions that utilized songs, dances, or background music.

A treasure trove of information, The Complete Book of 1940s Broadway Musicals provides readers with a complete view of each show. This significant resource will be of use to scholars, historians, and casual fans of one of the greatest decades in musical theatre history.