Composer

:

Stephen Sondheim

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1970

Average_duration

:

59:49

"Company" is a musical composed by Stephen Sondheim, with a book by George Furth. The musical was first performed on Broadway in 1970 and has since become a classic of the genre. The plot revolves around Bobby, a single man in his thirties, and his relationships with his married friends. The show is structured as a series of vignettes, each one exploring a different aspect of Bobby's life and the lives of his friends. The music of "Company" is characterized by Sondheim's signature style, which is marked by complex harmonies, intricate lyrics, and a sophisticated sense of humor. The score includes such classic songs as "The Ladies Who Lunch," "Being Alive," and "Another Hundred People." "Company" premiered on Broadway on April 26, 1970, at the Alvin Theatre (now the Neil Simon Theatre). The original production was directed by Harold Prince and starred Dean Jones as Bobby. The show was a critical and commercial success, running for 705 performances and winning six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The musical is divided into two acts, each consisting of a series of vignettes. The first act introduces Bobby and his friends, who are all married couples. Each vignette explores a different aspect of their relationships, from the joys of marriage to the frustrations and disappointments that come with it. The second act focuses on Bobby's own struggles with commitment and his fear of being alone. One of the most notable characteristics of "Company" is its non-linear structure. The show does not follow a traditional narrative arc, but instead presents a series of loosely connected scenes that explore different themes and ideas. This structure allows the show to delve deeply into the complexities of modern relationships and to explore the many different ways in which people connect with one another. Another key characteristic of "Company" is its use of humor. Sondheim's lyrics are often witty and ironic, and the show's characters are portrayed with a sense of humor that is both affectionate and satirical. This humor helps to lighten the show's more serious moments and makes it accessible to a wide range of audiences. In conclusion, "Company" is a classic of the musical theater genre, known for its complex music, sophisticated lyrics, and non-linear structure. The show explores the complexities of modern relationships with humor and insight, and its timeless themes continue to resonate with audiences today.

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