Passion, a musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, is a tale of love, obsession, and transformation set against the backdrop of Risorgimento-era Italy. The musical's journey from concept to Broadway is a fascinating story of artistic vision and collaboration. Adapted from Ettore Scola's film Passione d'Amore and Iginio Ugo Tarchetti's novel Fosca, Passion explores themes of beauty, power, and the complexities of human emotion.
The Genesis of Passion
The idea for Passion
began when Stephen Sondheim watched the film Passione d'Amore in 1983. He was struck by the story's potential for musical adaptation, particularly the unconventional love story between the soldier Giorgio and the ailing Fosca. Sondheim envisioned a musical that would challenge traditional narratives and delve into the depths of human passion. He approached James Lapine, a collaborator known for his romantic sensibilities and interest in different cultures, to write the book and direct the production.
Lapine was initially working on adapting Muscle, a memoir by Sam Fussell, for the stage. However, as he and Sondheim developed Passion, they realized the story's richness warranted a full-length musical rather than a companion piece. The collaboration between Sondheim and Lapine was marked by a shared enthusiasm for exploring the unusual and the intense, leading to the creation of a musical that would push boundaries and provoke thought.
Bringing Passion to Broadway
Passion premiered on Broadway at the Plymouth Theatre on May 9, 1994, after 52 previews. Directed by James Lapine, the production featured Jere Shea as Giorgio, Donna Murphy as Fosca, and Marin Mazzie as Clara. The musical's design elements, including scenic design by Adrianne Lobel and costume design by Jane Greenwood, contributed to its evocative portrayal of 19th-century Italy. Despite its relatively short run of 280 performances, Passion made a significant impact, winning the Tony Award for Best Musical.
The role of Fosca was initially offered to Patti LuPone, who declined to star in Sunset Boulevard in the West End. This decision led to Donna Murphy's acclaimed performance, which became a defining aspect of the Broadway production. Passion's success on Broadway was a testament to the power of Sondheim and Lapine's collaboration and their ability to create a musical that resonated with audiences despite its unconventional themes.
Legacy and Impact
Passion's influence extended beyond its Broadway run, with subsequent productions in London and revivals in various locations. The musical's exploration of intense emotions and complex relationships has continued to captivate audiences worldwide. Maria Friedman's portrayal of Fosca in the original London production earned her an Olivier Award, further cementing the musical's legacy.
The story of Passion's journey from concept to Broadway highlights the importance of artistic vision and collaboration in creating groundbreaking theater. Sondheim and Lapine's willingness to explore unconventional themes and challenge traditional narratives resulted in a musical that remains a powerful exploration of love and obsession. Passion's legacy endures as a testament to the transformative power of theater and the enduring impact of Sondheim's work.
