Composer

:

Jerome Kern

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1918

First Performance

:

Feb 1, 1918

Oh Lady! Lady! is a musical comedy with music composed by Jerome Kern and lyrics by P.G. Wodehouse and Guy Bolton. The plot revolves around the romantic entanglements of a wealthy American widow, Lady Roxdale, who is pursued by a group of suitors, including a French count, an English lord, and an American millionaire. The musical was composed in 1918 and premiered on Broadway at the Princess Theatre on January 21, 1919. It ran for 219 performances and was later revived in 1926 and 1933. The score of Oh Lady! Lady! features some of Kern's most memorable songs, including "Bill," "The Siren's Song," and "The Night Boat." The music is characterized by Kern's signature blend of operetta and jazz, with lush melodies and sophisticated harmonies. The plot of Oh Lady! Lady! is a classic romantic comedy, with mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and a happy ending. Lady Roxdale, played by Irene Bordoni in the original production, is a wealthy widow who is courted by three suitors: the French count de St. Malo, the English lord Hawcastle, and the American millionaire Jim Blake. Lady Roxdale is initially drawn to the count, but when she discovers that he is actually a con artist, she turns to Lord Hawcastle. However, when Jim Blake arrives on the scene, Lady Roxdale realizes that he is the man she truly loves. The musical is divided into two acts, with several musical numbers in each. The first act features the introduction of the main characters and their romantic entanglements, while the second act focuses on the resolution of these conflicts and the eventual happy ending. Overall, Oh Lady! Lady! is a charming and entertaining musical comedy that showcases Jerome Kern's musical genius and the wit and humor of P.G. Wodehouse and Guy Bolton's lyrics. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and enduring charm.

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