Composer

:

Jerome Kern

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

First Performance

:

1914

The Girl From Utah is a musical comedy composed by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Harry B. Smith. The plot revolves around a young woman named Gladys who travels from Utah to New York City in search of adventure and love. Along the way, she meets a wealthy Englishman named Jack who falls in love with her, but she is also pursued by a group of con artists who want to use her for their own gain. The musical was first composed in 1914 and premiered on Broadway on December 14th of that year. It was produced by Charles Frohman and directed by J.C. Huffman. The show ran for 143 performances and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. The musical is divided into two acts and features several memorable songs, including "They Didn't Believe Me," "The Right Girl," and "The Mormon's Prayer." The music is characterized by Kern's signature style, which blends elements of classical music with popular melodies and jazz rhythms. The Girl From Utah is notable for its portrayal of women as strong and independent characters who are not afraid to take risks and pursue their dreams. Gladys, the protagonist, is a prime example of this, as she leaves her small town in Utah to seek adventure and love in the big city. She is not content to simply marry a wealthy man and live a life of luxury; instead, she wants to find true love and happiness on her own terms. The musical also features a diverse cast of characters, including a group of con artists who are portrayed as both cunning and comical. This adds an element of humor to the show and helps to balance out the more serious themes of love and ambition. Overall, The Girl From Utah is a classic musical that showcases Jerome Kern's talent for composing catchy and memorable tunes. Its themes of love, ambition, and independence continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless piece of musical theater.

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