'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' is a musical adaptation of Betty Smith's novel, which made its debut on Broadway in 1951. With music by Arthur Schwartz and lyrics by Dorothy Fields, the musical brought to life the story of an immigrant family in early 20th-century Brooklyn. Despite its relatively short run, the production left a lasting impression on audiences and the theater community.
The Making of a Musical
The musical 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' was crafted by George Abbott
and Betty Smith, who collaborated on the book, while Dorothy Fields provided the lyrics and Arthur Schwartz composed the music. The story, based on Smith's autobiographical novel, centers around the Nolan family, capturing the struggles and dreams of a working-class family in Brooklyn. The musical opened at the Alvin Theatre on April 19, 1951, and ran for 267 performances before closing on December 8 of the same year.
The production was directed by George Abbott, who also produced it alongside Robert Fryer. The choreography was handled by Herbert Ross, adding a dynamic visual element to the storytelling. The cast featured notable performances, including Shirley Booth as Aunt Cissy, Johnny Johnston as Johnny Nolan, and Marcia Van Dyke as Katie. Van Dyke's portrayal earned her a Theatre World Award, highlighting the strong performances that characterized the show.
Challenges and Changes
While the musical was well-received by audiences, it faced challenges that impacted its success. One significant issue was the prominence of Shirley Booth's role as Aunt Cissy. Originally a secondary character in the novel, Cissy's role was expanded to showcase Booth's comedic talents. This shift in focus detracted from the central narrative of Johnny and Katie's crumbling marriage, which was intended to be the heart of the story.
Critics noted that the script was tailored too much to accommodate Booth, which led to a diminished emphasis on other characters, particularly young Francie, through whose eyes the novel's plot unfolds. This imbalance in character focus was seen as a misstep, contributing to the musical's relatively short run on Broadway.
Legacy and Revivals
Despite its initial challenges, 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' has seen revivals and adaptations that have kept its story alive. In 2003, the Goodspeed Opera House mounted a revised production that returned Aunt Cissy to a supporting role, allowing the central narrative to shine. Additionally, an Encores! staged concert production at New York City Center in 2005 featured Emily Skinner as Cissy, Jason Danieley as Johnny, and Sally Murphy as Katie.
The musical's original cast recording remains available, preserving the music and performances that captivated audiences in 1951. While 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' may not have achieved long-term success on Broadway, its story and music continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring its place in the annals of musical theater history.
