Composer

:

Roger Miller

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1985

Average_duration

:

45:43

"Big River" is a musical adaptation of Mark Twain's classic novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." The music and lyrics were composed by Roger Miller, with a book by William Hauptman. The musical premiered on Broadway on April 25, 1985, at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre and ran for 1,005 performances. The plot follows the adventures of Huck Finn and his friend Jim, a runaway slave, as they travel down the Mississippi River on a raft. Along the way, they encounter a variety of characters, including the Duke and the King, two con men who join them on their journey. Huck struggles with his conscience as he grapples with the morality of helping Jim escape to freedom. The music of "Big River" is a blend of country, bluegrass, and gospel, with catchy tunes and clever lyrics. The show features several standout numbers, including "Muddy Water," "River in the Rain," and "Waitin' for the Light to Shine." One of the unique characteristics of "Big River" is its use of a minimalistic set and props, allowing the music and performances to take center stage. The show also features a diverse cast, with actors of different races and ethnicities playing multiple roles. "Big River" was a critical and commercial success, winning seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, and Best Book of a Musical. The show has since been revived several times, including a 2003 production that starred country music legend, Reba McEntire. Overall, "Big River" is a timeless musical that captures the spirit of Mark Twain's classic novel while adding its own unique flair. With its catchy music, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, it remains a beloved favorite of theatergoers around the world.

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