Composer

:

Jerome Kern

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Compose Date

:

1917

First Performance

:

Aug 28, 1917

'Leave It to Jane' is a musical comedy with music composed by Jerome Kern and lyrics by Guy Bolton and P.G. Wodehouse. The plot revolves around the football rivalry between two small colleges, Atwater and Bingham, and the efforts of a group of students to win the annual game. The show premiered on January 28, 1917, at the Longacre Theatre in New York City. The musical is set in the fictional town of Atwater, where the local college is preparing for its annual football game against rival school Bingham. The students of Atwater are determined to win the game, and they enlist the help of Jane Witherspoon, a clever and resourceful young woman who is known for her ability to get things done. Jane comes up with a plan to recruit a star player from Bingham, but her efforts are complicated by the arrival of a group of wealthy alumni who want to take over the college and turn it into a finishing school for young ladies. The music of 'Leave It to Jane' is characterized by Kern's signature blend of catchy melodies and sophisticated harmonies. The show features several memorable songs, including "Cleopatterer," a comic number about a girl who thinks she's the reincarnation of Cleopatra, and "The Crickets Are Calling," a romantic ballad sung by the show's leading couple. 'Leave It to Jane' was a success when it premiered in 1917, and it went on to have a successful run on Broadway. The show was notable for its use of a large ensemble cast, which included both professional actors and local college students. It also featured elaborate dance numbers and colorful costumes, which helped to make it a popular choice for audiences of the time. In terms of movements, 'Leave It to Jane' is part of the larger tradition of musical comedy that emerged in the early 20th century. The show reflects the optimism and energy of the time, as well as the growing interest in sports and college life. It also showcases Kern's talent for creating memorable melodies and witty lyrics, which would become hallmarks of his later work. Overall, 'Leave It to Jane' is a charming and entertaining musical that showcases the talents of its composer and lyricists. Its catchy tunes and clever plot make it a classic example of the musical comedy genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal.

More....