Composer

:

George Gershwin

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Show Tune

Compose Date

:

1924

Average_duration

:

2:54

Oh, Lady Be Good is a musical comedy with music composed by George Gershwin and lyrics by Ira Gershwin. The plot revolves around the story of a brother and sister, Dick and Susie Trevor, who are down on their luck and trying to make a living in New York City. When they inherit a fortune from an unknown relative, they embark on a series of misadventures that lead them to Paris, where they encounter a cast of colorful characters and fall in love. The musical was composed in 1924 and premiered on Broadway on December 1, 1924, at the Liberty Theatre. It was directed by Edgar MacGregor and choreographed by Sammy Lee. The original cast included Fred and Adele Astaire, who were making their Broadway debut. The musical features several memorable songs, including the title song "Oh, Lady Be Good," "Fascinating Rhythm," and "The Half of it, Dearie, Blues." The music is characterized by Gershwin's signature blend of jazz, blues, and classical music, and the lyrics are witty and clever, reflecting the humor and sophistication of the era. The musical was a commercial success and ran for 330 performances on Broadway. It was also adapted into a film in 1928, starring Adele Astaire and Robert Montgomery. The success of Oh, Lady Be Good helped establish George and Ira Gershwin as leading figures in the world of musical theater. The musical is divided into two acts and features several dance numbers, including a tap dance solo by Fred Astaire in the song "Fascinating Rhythm." The plot is lighthearted and comedic, with a focus on the romantic entanglements of the characters. Overall, Oh, Lady Be Good is a classic example of the musical comedies of the 1920s, featuring memorable music, witty lyrics, and a charming and entertaining plot. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Gershwin brothers' music and the enduring legacy of the golden age of musical theater.

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