"Follow the Girls" was a musical that captured the spirit of its time, becoming a major hit during World War II. With music and lyrics by Dan Shapiro, Milton Pascal, and Phil Charig, the show was a sensation on both Broadway and the West End. Its storyline, centered around a burlesque striptease queen at a servicemen's club, provided a light-hearted escape for audiences during a tumultuous period.
Broadway Triumph
The Broadway production of "Follow the Girls" opened
on April 8, 1944, at the New Century Theatre. Produced by Albert Borde and directed by Harry Delmar, the show was choreographed by Catherine Littlefield. It quickly became a hit, transferring to the 44th Street Theatre and then the Broadhurst Theatre, where it completed an impressive 888-performance run. The cast featured notable names such as Jackie Gleason, Danny Aiello, Walter Long, and Gertrude Niesen, who brought the lively characters to life.
The musical's success can be attributed to its engaging mix of songs, dance numbers, and comedy routines, which provided a much-needed distraction from the war. The plot, though considered thin, served as a perfect backdrop for the entertainment, allowing audiences to enjoy the performances without the burden of heavy storytelling.
West End Reception
Following its success in New York, "Follow the Girls" made its way to London's West End. Presented by Jack Hylton, the production opened on October 25, 1945, at His Majesty's Theatre. The show ran for 572 performances, proving that its appeal was not limited to American audiences. The West End cast included Arthur Askey and Evelyn Dall, who brought their own charm to the production.
The London production maintained the same spirit of entertainment and escapism that had made it a hit in the United States. The combination of humor, music, and dance resonated with British audiences, who were also seeking relief from the war's impact.
International Reach
The success of "Follow the Girls" extended beyond the United States and the United Kingdom. An Australian production was presented by J. C. Williamson's, starring Don Nicol and Lois Green. It opened at the Theatre Royal in Sydney on October 12, 1946, and later moved to Melbourne and Perth. This international reach demonstrated the universal appeal of the musical's light-hearted and entertaining nature.
In conclusion, "Follow the Girls" was more than just a musical; it was a cultural phenomenon that provided joy and laughter during a challenging time. Its success on Broadway, the West End, and internationally highlights the power of theater to uplift and entertain, even in the darkest of times.
