Let's dive into the world of musical theater and explore a fascinating development in the upcoming production of 'Meet Me in St. Louis' at The Muny. This heartwarming musical, set against the backdrop of the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, has received a special touch with a brand new song penned by none other than Oscar winner Mark Sonnenblick.
The Song and Its Significance
Titled 'That's Enough of That,' this original composition is a delightful addition to the musical's second act. It's written for the character Katie Connelly, the Smith family's beloved housekeeper, who will be brought to life by the talented Tony winner, Beth Leavel. The song captures a moment when Katie steps in to offer some witty advice to the frustrated eldest Smith daughters, Esther and Rose, as they navigate the challenges of a changing world.
A Creative Challenge
Sonnenblick, a multi-award-winning songwriter, shares his excitement about the opportunity to contribute to such an iconic musical. He expresses the honor and inspiration he feels, especially when writing for an actress of Leavel's caliber. The song aims to capture Katie's warm humor and heart, ensuring it fits seamlessly into the musical's narrative.
The Evolution of 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
What makes this production even more intriguing is its evolution over the years. Since its first stage edition in 1960, 'Meet Me in St. Louis' has seen the addition of over 25 songs not featured in the original film version. The 2018 script, with revisions by Gordon Greenberg, will be used for this summer's production, marking the ninth time the musical has been staged at The Muny.
A Musical Journey
Sonnenblick's recent co-writing credits include seven songs for 'KPop Demon Hunters,' earning him critical acclaim and a spot at the top of the Billboard Hot 100. His musical, 'Midnight at The Never Get,' starring Ben Platt and directed by David Cromer, is currently enjoying a successful run in London. Leavel, a Tony winner herself, has a long history with The Muny, having appeared in numerous productions over the years.
The Creative Team
The upcoming production is directed by Maggie Burrows, with choreography by Sarah Meahl and music direction by conductor Paul Byssainthe Jr. The talented cast includes Broadway stars Patti Murin and Colin Donnell, alongside Katerina McCrimmon, Stan Brown, and many more. The musical's creative team includes Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin for music and lyrics, with additional contributions from Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, and others.
A Classic Revived
The 1944 film version of 'Meet Me in St. Louis' starred Judy Garland and featured iconic songs like 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' and 'The Trolley Song.' The upcoming production promises to be a delightful blend of classic charm and modern creativity.
Deeper Analysis
The addition of a new song to a beloved musical like 'Meet Me in St. Louis' showcases the ongoing evolution of theater. It's a testament to the creative vision of The Muny's artistic team and their commitment to enhancing the audience experience. This production, with its blend of classic storytelling and contemporary creativity, promises to be a highlight of the summer theater season.
Conclusion
As an avid theatergoer and commentator, I'm thrilled to see the continued innovation and creativity within the industry. The addition of Sonnenblick's song to 'Meet Me in St. Louis' is a perfect example of how theater can evolve and adapt while still honoring its rich history. It's these kinds of collaborations and artistic choices that keep the theater world vibrant and exciting.
