The Broadway play 'Say, Darling' offers a comedic glimpse into the world of musical theater production. Written by Abe Burrows and Richard and Marian Bissell, this three-act play delves into the intricacies
of adapting a novel into a stage musical. The narrative follows Jack Jordan, a novelist brought to Broadway to transform his bestseller into a musical, providing audiences with an insider's view of the creative process.
The Journey from Novel to Stage
The play 'Say, Darling' is based on Richard Bissell's semi-autobiographical novel, which itself was inspired by his experiences adapting his book '7½ Cents' into the musical 'The Pajama Game.' This meta-narrative adds layers to the story, as it mirrors the real-life challenges Bissell faced in bringing his work to the stage. The play captures the essence of the creative process, highlighting the trials and tribulations of adapting a written work into a live performance.
Jack Jordan, the protagonist, is thrust into the chaotic world of Broadway, where he must navigate auditions, rehearsals, and rewrites. His journey is overseen by veteran producer Richard Hackett, a character loosely based on the legendary George Abbott. The play humorously portrays the tension and collaboration required to bring a musical to life, offering audiences a peek behind the curtain.
Characters and Their Real-Life Inspirations
The characters in 'Say, Darling' are inspired by real-life figures in the theater world. Richard Hackett, the seasoned producer, is modeled after George Abbott, a prominent figure in Broadway history. Meanwhile, Ted Snow, the young co-producer, is thought to resemble Harold Prince, known for his financial acumen and less seasoned show business skills.
These characters add depth to the narrative, as they embody the diverse personalities and expertise required to produce a successful musical. The play's humor and drama stem from the interactions between these characters, each bringing their unique perspective to the production process.
The Original Production and Its Legacy
Directed by Abe Burrows, the original Broadway production of 'Say, Darling' opened in 1958 and ran for 332 performances. Despite its comedic approach, the play was initially mistaken for a musical due to its inclusion of nine original songs. The songs, however, were presented as rehearsal or audition material, emphasizing the play's focus on the behind-the-scenes aspects of musical creation.
The production featured notable performances, including Robert Morse's portrayal of Ted Snow, which earned him a Tony Award nomination. The play's legacy lies in its humorous yet insightful exploration of the complexities of theater production, offering audiences a unique perspective on the art of adaptation.
