The 1964 Broadway musical 'Ben Franklin in Paris' offers a fictionalized account of Benjamin Franklin's time in France during the American Revolution. This production, which ran for 215 performances, was a significant undertaking that brought together a talented creative team and cast. Let's delve into the details of how this musical came to life on the Broadway stage.
The Creative Team
The musical 'Ben Franklin in Paris' was brought to life by a team of talented individuals
who each played a crucial role in its production. The book and lyrics were crafted by Sidney Michaels, while the music was composed by Mark Sandrich, Jr. Notably, two songs were contributed by the renowned Jerry Herman, adding a unique flair to the musical's score. The direction and choreography were handled by Michael Kidd, a respected figure in the theater world, known for his ability to bring dynamic movement and storytelling to the stage.
The production also featured impressive set designs by Oliver Smith, whose work helped transport audiences to 18th-century Paris. Costume design was managed by Motley, ensuring that the characters were dressed in period-appropriate attire that added authenticity to the performance. Lighting design by John Brown further enhanced the visual experience, creating the right mood and atmosphere for each scene.
The Cast and Performances
The cast of 'Ben Franklin in Paris' was led by Robert Preston, who took on the role of Benjamin Franklin. His portrayal of the iconic historical figure was central to the musical's success. Ulla Sallert played Madame la Comtesse Diane de Vobrillac, a character who aids Franklin in his quest for French support. The cast also included Susan Watson as Janine Nicolet, Sam Greene as Captain Wickets, and Franklin Kiser as Temple Franklin, among others.
The musical opened on October 27, 1964, at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre and ran until May 1, 1965. During its run, the production underwent some changes, such as the replacement of Susan Watson with Rita Gardner shortly after opening night. Despite these adjustments, the musical maintained its appeal, drawing audiences with its engaging story and performances.
Musical Direction and Legacy
Musical direction and vocal arrangements for 'Ben Franklin in Paris' were overseen by Donald Pippin, whose expertise ensured that the musical numbers were both entertaining and well-executed. The orchestrations by Philip J. Lang and dance music by Roger Adams further contributed to the musical's vibrant sound.
An original cast recording was released by Capitol Records, which invested $200,000 in the production. This recording helped preserve the musical's legacy, allowing audiences to enjoy its songs long after the final curtain fell. In 2008, San Francisco's 42nd Street Moon theater company revived the musical, introducing it to a new generation of theatergoers.
'Ben Franklin in Paris' remains a notable example of how historical events can be reimagined and brought to life on the stage, thanks to the collaborative efforts of a dedicated creative team and talented cast.
