The 1965 Broadway musical 'Skyscraper' is a fascinating adaptation of Elmer Rice's 1945 play 'Dream Girl.' This transformation from a dramatic play into a musical comedy highlights the creative process of adapting a story for a different medium. With music by Jimmy Van Heusen and lyrics by Sammy Cahn, 'Skyscraper' brought a new life to Rice's original work, offering audiences a fresh take on the narrative.
From 'Dream Girl' to 'Skyscraper'
Elmer Rice's 'Dream Girl' was a play that
captured the imagination of its audience with its unique storyline and engaging characters. The play focused on the life of an antique shop owner, Georgina, who faced the challenges of urban development in 1960s New York City. This narrative provided a rich foundation for adaptation into a musical format. The transition from play to musical involved not only a change in medium but also a shift in tone, as the story was infused with music and dance to enhance its appeal.
The adaptation process was spearheaded by Peter Stone, who wrote the book for the musical. Stone's work was crucial in maintaining the essence of Rice's original play while integrating the musical elements that would define 'Skyscraper.' The collaboration with Van Heusen and Cahn resulted in a production that retained the core themes of the play while offering a new, vibrant experience for theatergoers.
The Broadway Production
' Skyscraper' opened on Broadway at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on November 13, 1965. Directed by Cy Feuer and choreographed by Michael Kidd, the musical ran for 248 performances, closing on June 11, 1966. The production featured a talented cast, including Julie Harris in her first musical role, alongside Peter Marshall and Charles Nelson Reilly. The musical's storyline, centered around Georgina's efforts to save her brownstone from demolition, resonated with audiences, reflecting the urban development issues of the time.
The musical's success was not only due to its engaging story and performances but also its memorable music. Songs like "Everybody Has a Right to Be Wrong" and "Spare That Building" captured the spirit of the era and added depth to the characters' journeys. The combination of a compelling narrative and lively musical numbers made 'Skyscraper' a notable entry in Broadway history.
Legacy and Revival
Despite facing stiff competition from other popular musicals of the time, 'Skyscraper' left a lasting impact on Broadway. Its nomination for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Actress in a Musical, attests to its quality and appeal. The musical's themes of resilience and determination continue to resonate with audiences, as evidenced by its 2024 Off-Broadway revival.
The revival, directed by Avital Asuleen, brought 'Skyscraper' back to the stage, introducing it to a new generation of theatergoers. This production retained the original book, music, and lyrics, while also restoring two songs that were cut from the original 1965 production. The revival highlighted the enduring charm and relevance of 'Skyscraper,' ensuring its place in the annals of musical theater history.
