Facts about Harmony: A New Musical
Oct 24, 2023
Harmony: A New Musical is a stage musical with original music by Barry Manilow and book and lyrics by Bruce Sussman. The musical tells the true story of the Comedian Harmonists, an ensemble of six young men in 1920s Germany who rose to international fame with their signature blend of sophisticated close harmonies and uproarious stage antics.
Barry and Bruce have been developing this musical for nearly 3 decades. In 2022, the musical opened Off-Broadway, and is now (FINALLY) playing on Broadway at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre.
Here are some interesting facts about Harmony: A New Musical:
- The musical is based on the true story of the Comedian Harmonists, a vocal sextet that was formed in Berlin in 1927. The group consisted of three Jewish men and three non-Jewish men, and they quickly became one of the most popular musical acts in Germany. However, their success came to an end in 1933 when the Nazis came to power. The group was forced to disband, and several of its members were persecuted by the Nazi regime.
- The musical features an original score by Barry Manilow, one of the most successful singer-songwriters of all time. Manilow wrote the score specifically for the musical, and it includes some of his most iconic songs, such as “Could It Be Magic” and “Mandy.”
- The musical has been praised for its uplifting story and its heartwarming message of tolerance and acceptance. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for harmony and understanding.
- The production is directed and choreographed by Tony Award-winner Warren Carlyle.
- The cast includes Broadway favorites like Sierra Boggess (Phantom of the Opera), Julie Benko (Funny Girl), and Chip Zien (Into the Woods).
- As of October 18, 2023, 20 company members made their Broadway debut with Harmony.
- The musical will officially open at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on Broadway on November 13, 2023.
If you are looking for a musical that is both entertaining and inspiring, then be sure to check out Harmony: A New Musical. It is a story that will stay with you long after you leave the theater.