Composer

:

Burt Bacharach

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Average_duration

:

23:12

Promises, Promises is a musical with music composed by Burt Bacharach, lyrics by Hal David, and a book by Neil Simon. The musical is based on the 1960 film The Apartment, which was directed by Billy Wilder and starred Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine. The musical premiered on Broadway at the Shubert Theatre on December 1, 1968, and ran for 1,281 performances. The plot of Promises, Promises follows Chuck Baxter, a young and ambitious employee at a New York City insurance company who lends his apartment to his married superiors for their extramarital affairs in exchange for a promotion. However, things become complicated when Chuck falls in love with Fran Kubelik, a waitress who is having an affair with Chuck's boss. The musical explores themes of love, infidelity, and the corrupt corporate culture of the 1960s. The music of Promises, Promises is characterized by Bacharach's signature blend of pop, jazz, and soul influences. The score includes such hit songs as "I'll Never Fall in Love Again," "Knowing When to Leave," and the title song, "Promises, Promises." The music is notable for its complex harmonies, intricate melodies, and unconventional song structures. The musical premiered during a time of social and political upheaval in the United States, and its themes of infidelity and corporate corruption resonated with audiences. The show was a critical and commercial success, earning four Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and launching the careers of its stars, Jerry Orbach and Jill O'Hara. Promises, Promises has since become a beloved classic of the musical theatre canon, and its music continues to be performed and recorded by artists around the world. The show's enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of Bacharach's music and the timeless themes of love and betrayal that it explores.

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