Composer

:

Sigmund Romberg

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1945

Average_duration

:

23:40

Up in Central Park is a musical comedy with music composed by Sigmund Romberg and book and lyrics by Herbert Fields and Dorothy Fields. The musical premiered on Broadway at the New Century Theatre on January 27, 1945, and ran for 504 performances. The plot of the musical is set in New York City in the 1870s and revolves around the corrupt political machine of Boss Tweed. The story follows the romance between John Matthews, a young newspaper reporter, and Mary O'Brien, a poor Irish immigrant who works as a maid in the Tweed household. John is investigating the corruption of Tweed and his associates, while Mary is caught up in the political intrigue and becomes a pawn in their schemes. The musical features several memorable songs, including "Close as Pages in a Book," "The Night Is Young and You're So Beautiful," and "A Girl Is a Curious Thing." Romberg's music is characterized by lush melodies and sweeping orchestrations, which capture the romantic and nostalgic atmosphere of the period. Up in Central Park was a commercial success and received positive reviews from critics. The musical was notable for its elaborate sets and costumes, which recreated the look and feel of 19th-century New York City. The production also featured a large ensemble cast, including several notable performers such as Deanna Durbin, Dick Haymes, and Adolph Green. The musical was divided into two acts and several movements, each of which featured different musical numbers and scenes. The first act focused on the political machinations of Boss Tweed and his associates, while the second act centered on the romance between John and Mary. The musical culminated in a dramatic confrontation between John and Tweed, which exposed the corruption of the political machine and led to Tweed's downfall. Overall, Up in Central Park is a charming and nostalgic musical that captures the spirit of 19th-century New York City. Romberg's music is a highlight of the production, and the elaborate sets and costumes add to the overall spectacle of the show. The musical remains a beloved classic of the Broadway stage and continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences today.

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