In the world of theater, not every production enjoys a long and successful run. Such was the case with 'The Liar,' a musical comedy that graced Broadway for a mere 12 performances in 1950. With music by John Mundy and lyrics by Edward Eager, this production was based on Carlo Goldoni's 18th-century comedy of the same name. Despite its brief stint, 'The Liar' remains a fascinating piece of Broadway history.
The Production's Beginnings
'Before making its way to Broadway, 'The Liar'
had a two-week try-out at the Forrest Theatre in Philadelphia starting on April 24, 1950. This period was crucial for the production team to refine the show before its official premiere. The musical was produced by Dorothy Willard and Thomas Hammond, with Alfred Drake not only co-writing the book but also directing the production. The choreography was crafted by Hanya Holm, adding a dynamic element to the show.
The scenic and lighting design was the work of Donald Oenslager, while the costumes were designed by Motley. The orchestration was handled by Lehman Engel and Ben Ludlow, with Engel also serving as the musical director. This team of talented individuals worked together to bring 'The Liar' to life on the Broadway stage.
The Broadway Premiere
'On May 18, 1950, 'The Liar' premiered at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City. The opening night cast featured notable actors such as Martin Balsam as Servingman and Walter Matthau as Guard. Other cast members included Melville Cooper, Paula Laurence, and Philip Coolidge, each bringing their unique talents to the production.
Despite the promising team and cast, 'The Liar' struggled to capture the attention of Broadway audiences. The show closed on May 27, 1950, after just 12 performances. This short run was a disappointment for the production team, who had invested significant time and effort into the musical.
Critical Reception
'While 'The Liar' may not have found commercial success, it did receive some critical attention. Richard Watts of The New York Post described the musical as a "tedious and self-conscious antic" and "a very sedate jest." Such reviews likely contributed to the show's early closure, as audiences were not drawn to a production that failed to deliver the expected entertainment value.
In the end, 'The Liar' serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of Broadway. Even with a talented team and a classic source material, success is never guaranteed. The musical's brief run is a testament to the challenges faced by theater productions and the ever-changing tastes of audiences.
