Sutton Foster's Dazzling 'The Music Man': A Broadway Revival with Hugh Jackman

Sutton Foster and Hugh Jackman: A Broadway Dream Team in 'The Music Man'

The 2022 Broadway revival of 'The Music Man' was more than just a show; it was a cultural event. Starring the incomparable Sutton Foster as Marian Paroo and the charismatic Hugh Jackman as Harold Hill, this production captivated audiences and reignited a love for classic musical theatre. This article delves into the magic of this revival, exploring Foster's exceptional performance, Jackman's star power, and the enduring appeal of 'The Music Man' on the Broadway stage. We will examine how this dynamic duo brought fresh life to beloved characters, the critical reception, and the show's impact on the Broadway landscape.

The Enduring Appeal of 'The Music Man'

'The Music Man,' with music and lyrics by Meredith Willson, tells the story of Harold Hill, a con man who arrives in River City, Iowa, promising to form a boys' band. He plans to swindle the townspeople and skip town, but his plans are complicated when he falls in love with Marian Paroo, the town librarian and piano teacher. The show is a celebration of small-town America, hope, and the transformative power of music.

Several factors contribute to the show's enduring appeal:

• Classic Score: The musical is filled with memorable and catchy tunes, including "Seventy-Six Trombones," "Ya Got Trouble," "Till There Was You," and "The Wells Fargo Wagon."
• Charming Story: The story is heartwarming and relatable, exploring themes of love, redemption, and community.
• Iconic Characters: Harold Hill and Marian Paroo are complex and engaging characters, each with their own motivations and flaws.
• Nostalgia: For many, 'The Music Man' evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.

Sutton Foster: A Marian Paroo for a New Generation

Sutton Foster is a two-time Tony Award-winning actress known for her incredible talent, versatility, and infectious energy. Her portrayal of Marian Paroo in 'The Music Man' was hailed as a triumph, showcasing her vocal prowess, acting depth, and comedic timing. Foster brought a fresh perspective to the character, portraying Marian as a strong, independent woman who is both intelligent and vulnerable.

Foster's Marian was not simply a librarian waiting to be swept off her feet. She was a woman with her own dreams and desires, who challenged Harold Hill and forced him to confront his own flaws. Foster's nuanced performance highlighted Marian's intelligence, wit, and deep-seated compassion, making her a relatable and inspiring character for modern audiences.

Key Elements of Sutton Foster's Performance

• Vocal Excellence: Foster's soaring soprano voice brought new life to Marian's songs, particularly "Till There Was You," which she delivered with heartfelt emotion. Her control and clarity were praised by critics and audiences alike.
• Acting Depth: Foster masterfully portrayed Marian's complex emotions, from her initial skepticism of Harold Hill to her gradual falling in love with him. She brought a vulnerability to the role that made Marian all the more endearing.
• Comedic Timing: Foster's comedic skills were on full display in 'The Music Man,' particularly in her interactions with Harold Hill and the townspeople of River City. She had a knack for delivering lines with a perfect blend of wit and charm.
• Connection with Hugh Jackman: The chemistry between Foster and Jackman was palpable, adding an extra layer of magic to their performances. Their scenes together were filled with sparks, making their romance believable and captivating.

Hugh Jackman: A Broadway Legend as Harold Hill

Hugh Jackman is a global superstar known for his roles in films like 'X-Men' and 'The Greatest Showman,' as well as his numerous Broadway appearances. He is a charismatic and dynamic performer with a natural stage presence. His portrayal of Harold Hill in 'The Music Man' was a masterclass in charm and showmanship.

Jackman brought a playful energy to the role, capturing Harold Hill's infectious enthusiasm and deceptive charm. He also brought a depth to the character, hinting at the loneliness and insecurity that lies beneath Harold's confident facade. Jackman's performance was both entertaining and thought-provoking, reminding audiences that even the most charismatic con men can have a change of heart.

Highlighting Hugh Jackman's Performance

• Infectious Energy: Jackman's energy was contagious, captivating audiences from his first entrance. He brought a sense of excitement and enthusiasm to the stage that was impossible to resist.
• Charismatic Charm: Jackman perfectly embodied Harold Hill's charm and showmanship, convincing the audience (as well as the townspeople of River City) that he was a true musical genius.
• Physicality: Jackman is a physically gifted performer, and he used his physicality to great effect in 'The Music Man.' His dance moves were energetic and precise, and he moved around the stage with confidence and grace.
• Vocal Prowess: While not known primarily as a singer, Jackman held his own vocally, delivering Harold Hill's songs with style and conviction. He brought a unique timbre to the role that set him apart from previous Harold Hills.

The Chemistry Between Foster and Jackman

One of the most remarkable aspects of the 'The Music Man' revival was the undeniable chemistry between Sutton Foster and Hugh Jackman. Their connection was palpable, making their characters' romance believable and captivating. They played off each other beautifully, creating a dynamic and engaging stage partnership.

Their shared history undoubtedly contributed to their chemistry. They had worked together previously in a concert version of 'Chess,' so they already had a foundation of trust and respect. This allowed them to take risks and experiment with their performances, resulting in a truly special and memorable stage partnership.

Impact of Their Chemistry

• Enhanced Believability: Their chemistry made their characters' romance more believable, drawing the audience into their story.
• Increased Engagement: Their dynamic interactions kept the audience engaged and invested in their characters' journeys.
• Added Layer of Magic: Their connection added an extra layer of magic to the production, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
• Positive Critical Reception: Critics frequently praised the chemistry between Foster and Jackman, recognizing it as a key element of the show's success.

Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Broadway Revival

Reviving a classic musical like 'The Music Man' requires a delicate balance between honoring the original and bringing something new to the table. The creative team behind the 2022 revival faced the challenge of updating the show for a modern audience while preserving its timeless appeal. This involved careful consideration of the set design, costumes, choreography, and overall tone of the production.

The revival featured a lavish set design that evoked the small-town atmosphere of River City, Iowa. The costumes were colorful and period-appropriate, adding to the show's visual appeal. The choreography, by Warren Carlyle, was energetic and dynamic, showcasing the talent of the ensemble cast. The director, Jerry Zaks, skillfully balanced the show's comedic and dramatic elements, creating a production that was both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

Key Creative Team Members

• Director: Jerry Zaks
• Choreographer: Warren Carlyle
• Set Designer: Santo Loquasto
• Costume Designer: Paul Tazewell
• Lighting Designer: Natasha Katz
• Sound Designer: Scott Lehrer

Critical Reception and Audience Response

The 'The Music Man' revival received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising Foster and Jackman's performances, the lavish production values, and the show's enduring appeal. Audiences flocked to see the show, making it one of the biggest hits of the 2022 Broadway season. The show's success proved that classic musicals can still resonate with modern audiences when they are brought to life with talent, creativity, and a deep respect for the source material.

Despite the generally positive reception, some critics raised concerns about the show's length and the pacing of certain scenes. Others questioned whether the revival brought enough new to the table, arguing that it was too faithful to the original. However, these criticisms were largely overshadowed by the overwhelming praise for Foster and Jackman's performances and the show's overall entertainment value.

Examples of Critical Praise

• "Sutton Foster is simply luminous as Marian Paroo, bringing a fresh perspective to the character." - *The New York Times*
• "Hugh Jackman is a force of nature as Harold Hill, captivating audiences with his charm and energy." - *Variety*
• "The chemistry between Foster and Jackman is electric, making their romance believable and captivating." - *The Hollywood Reporter*

The Economic Impact of 'The Music Man' on Broadway

'The Music Man' revival was a significant economic driver for the Broadway community. Its immense popularity translated to impressive box office numbers, contributing significantly to the overall revenue of the Broadway theatre industry during its run. The show created numerous jobs for performers, musicians, stagehands, and other theatre professionals.

Beyond the direct economic impact, 'The Music Man' also helped to boost tourism in New York City. Visitors from around the world came to see the show, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. The show's success demonstrated the enduring appeal of Broadway and its ability to attract tourists and generate revenue.

Economic Benefits of the Revival

• High Box Office Gross: The show consistently grossed millions of dollars per week, making it one of the highest-grossing shows on Broadway.
• Job Creation: The production employed hundreds of people, providing jobs for performers, musicians, and behind-the-scenes professionals.
• Tourism Boost: The show attracted tourists from around the world, supporting local businesses and boosting the New York City economy.
• Revitalization of Broadway: The show's success helped to revitalize the Broadway community after the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the resilience and enduring appeal of live theatre.

The Music Man's Legacy and Influence

'The Music Man' has had a lasting impact on American culture, inspiring numerous revivals, adaptations, and tributes. The show's iconic songs and characters have become ingrained in the collective consciousness, and its themes of love, hope, and community continue to resonate with audiences today.

The revival starring Sutton Foster and Hugh Jackman further cemented 'The Music Man's' place in Broadway history. Their performances brought the show to a new generation of audiences, ensuring that its legacy will continue to endure for years to come. The revival served as a reminder of the power of live theatre to transport, entertain, and inspire.

The Enduring Legacy of 'The Music Man'

• Iconic Songs: The show's songs, such as "Seventy-Six Trombones" and "Till There Was You," have become standards in the American songbook.
• Memorable Characters: Harold Hill and Marian Paroo are beloved characters who have been portrayed by countless actors over the years.
• Themes of Hope and Community: The show's themes of hope, community, and the transformative power of music continue to resonate with audiences today.
• Influence on Musical Theatre: 'The Music Man' has influenced countless other musicals, inspiring composers and lyricists to create their own stories of small-town America and the power of music.

Sutton Foster: A Broadway Icon

Sutton Foster's portrayal of Marian Paroo solidified her status as a true Broadway icon. Her talent, versatility, and infectious energy have made her one of the most beloved and respected performers in the theatre world. She continues to inspire aspiring performers and delight audiences with her remarkable performances.

Foster's career is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a genuine love for the craft. She has consistently challenged herself with diverse roles, showcasing her range and versatility. Her performances are always characterized by a deep understanding of her characters and a commitment to bringing them to life in a meaningful and authentic way.

Hugh Jackman: Bridging Film and Stage

Hugh Jackman's performance in 'The Music Man' demonstrated his ability to seamlessly transition between film and stage. He is a true triple threat, excelling as an actor, singer, and dancer. His presence on Broadway brought a new level of excitement and attention to the theatre community.

Jackman's dedication to his craft and his willingness to take risks have made him one of the most admired and respected performers in the entertainment industry. He continues to inspire audiences with his talent, charisma, and genuine passion for performing.

The Magic of Broadway: A Timeless Art Form

The 'The Music Man' revival served as a reminder of the magic of Broadway and the power of live theatre to connect with audiences. In a world of digital entertainment and virtual experiences, Broadway offers a unique and irreplaceable form of entertainment that is both immersive and emotionally resonant. The shared experience of watching a live performance creates a sense of community and connection that is unlike anything else.

The enduring appeal of Broadway is a testament to the power of storytelling, music, and human connection. As long as there are stories to be told and audiences to be entertained, Broadway will continue to thrive and inspire.

In conclusion, the 2022 Broadway revival of 'The Music Man,' starring Sutton Foster and Hugh Jackman, was a triumph. It showcased the incredible talents of these two performers, the enduring appeal of the classic musical, and the magic of Broadway. The production left a lasting impact on the Broadway landscape, demonstrating the power of live theatre to entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences.

Further Exploration and Resources

• Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) entry for 'The Music Man' revival
• Sutton Foster's Official Website
• Hugh Jackman's Official Website
• Articles and reviews from reputable publications like *The New York Times*, *Variety*, and *The Hollywood Reporter* (search specific show reviews)