ABOUT THE PLAY

With a full score of jazzy songs and bright dance numbers, Thoroughly Modern Millie took Broadway by storm in 2002 and won many Tony Awards (Including Best Musical) and Drama Desk Awards! The musical is based on the movie of the same name which was produced in 1967 as a comedy film directed by George Roy Hill. Some names you might recognize from the film are Julie Andrews, Mary Tyler Moore, Carol Channing, Beatrice Lillie (in her last film role), Pat Morita and Jack Soo. The screenplay was by Richard Morris who was inspired by a 1956 musical called Chrysanthemum. His effort won him a Writers Guild of America Award for Best American Musical. The film won the Academy Award for Original Music Score (composed by Elmer Bernstein) and a
Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for Channing.

The book for the Broadway musical was also written by Richard Morris, but this time he was joined by Dick Scanlan (also the lyricist). The movie used popular songs from the 1920’s like “Baby face” and “Broadway Baby,” but these have been replaced by original songs written by Jeanine Tesori with original lyrics by Dick Scanlan.

Every character in this play is a delightful bit of cliche, as is the play itself. Small town girl moves to big city to make good by marrying her boss? Okay-It’s a cliche with a twist. The dialogue is cleverly written and the lyrics are thoroughly delightful. The cast has adopted every piece of this show as their own and made sure the characters are loveable and credible. It’s my hope that you enjoy our efforts, tap your toes during the show, and walk out humming your favorite tune!

Kim Silverman