In the world of theater, not every production enjoys a long and prosperous run. Such was the case with the musical "Donnybrook!" which opened on Broadway in 1961. Despite its promising elements, the show closed after just 68 performances. This article delves into the production's brief stint on Broadway, examining the factors that contributed to its short-lived journey.
The Opening Night
"Donnybrook!" made its debut on Broadway at the 46th Street Theatre on May 18,
1961. The musical was directed and choreographed by Jack Cole, a notable figure in the world of dance and theater. The production featured a talented cast, including Art Lund as John Enright, Joan Fagan as Ellen Roe Danaher, Eddie Foy Jr., Susan Johnson as Kathy Carey, and Philip Bosco as Will Danaher. The sets and costumes were designed by Rouben Ter-Arutunian, adding a visual flair to the production.
The musical was based on the 1952 film "The Quiet Man," with music and lyrics by Johnny Burke and a book by Robert E. McEnroe. The story followed John Enright, an Irish-American prizefighter who returns to Ireland, vowing never to fight again after killing a man in the ring. He falls in love with Ellen Roe, a spirited Irish maiden, but faces opposition from her brother, Will, who sees John as a coward.
Challenges and Changes
Despite the promising premise and experienced team, "Donnybrook!" faced challenges from the start. The original actress cast as Ellen, Kipp Hamilton, had to leave the production due to a respiratory ailment, and Joan Fagan stepped in as her stand-by. Such changes can often disrupt the momentum and chemistry of a production, potentially impacting its success.
The musical's score included a variety of songs, from ballads like "He Makes Me Feel I'm Lovely" and "I Have My Own Way" to lively numbers such as the title song "Donnybrook" and "Sez I." However, even with a diverse musical lineup, the show struggled to capture the audience's attention and maintain strong ticket sales.
The Curtain Falls
After just 68 performances and two previews, "Donnybrook!" closed on July 15, 1961. The reasons for its short run could be attributed to several factors, including competition from other shows, the challenges faced during production, and perhaps a storyline that didn't resonate as strongly with audiences as anticipated.
While "Donnybrook!" may not have enjoyed a long run on Broadway, it remains a part of theater history as an example of the unpredictable nature of the stage. The production's brief journey serves as a reminder of the many elements that must align for a show to succeed in the competitive world of Broadway.
