Composer

:

Stephen Sondheim

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1971

Average_duration

:

85:07

"Follies" is a musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Goldman. The musical was first composed in 1971 and premiered on Broadway in 1971. The story is set in a dilapidated Broadway theater, which is about to be demolished. The theater was once the home of the "Weismann Follies," a famous revue that ran from the 1910s to the 1930s. The show follows a group of former "Weismann Follies" performers who reunite for one last time before the theater is torn down. The musical is divided into two acts, with the first act taking place in the present day and the second act taking place in the past. The former performers gather in the theater, reminiscing about their past and the glory days of the "Weismann Follies." As they reminisce, they begin to confront the harsh realities of their lives and the choices they made. The show explores themes of regret, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The music of "Follies" is characterized by Sondheim's signature complex melodies and intricate lyrics. The show features several iconic songs, including "Losing My Mind," "I'm Still Here," and "Broadway Baby." The score also includes several pastiche numbers, which pay homage to the music of the 1920s and 1930s. The original Broadway production of "Follies" was directed by Harold Prince and starred a cast of Broadway legends, including Dorothy Collins, Alexis Smith, and John McMartin. The show received critical acclaim and was nominated for eleven Tony Awards, winning seven, including Best Original Score and Best Direction of a Musical. Since its premiere, "Follies" has become a beloved classic of the musical theater canon. The show has been revived several times on Broadway and in the West End, and has been produced in regional theaters around the world. The musical's enduring popularity is a testament to Sondheim's masterful score and Goldman's poignant book, which continue to resonate with audiences today.

More....