The musical "Jamaica," which premiered on Broadway in 1957, is more than just a theatrical production; it is a work rich in social commentary and satire, set against the vibrant backdrop of a small island community. The narrative centers on the struggle of this community to preserve its identity and way of life against the encroaching tide of American commercialism. This central conflict, articulated through the book by Yip Harburg and Fred Saidy,
and lyrics by Harburg, resonates with timeless themes of cultural preservation versus globalization.
Harold Arlen's music for "Jamaica" plays a crucial role in establishing the musical's tone and thematic underpinnings. It notably parodies the popular calypso music form, a genre that was highly in vogue during the 1950s. This popularity was largely fueled by the widespread success of Harry Belafonte, for whom the musical was originally conceived. The decision to incorporate and parody calypso not only tapped into a contemporary cultural phenomenon but also allowed the musical to engage with its themes in an accessible yet critical manner.
The Sharp Edge of Satire and Blacklisting's Impact
The satire within "Jamaica" is described as unusually pointed, a characteristic that can be traced back to the circumstances surrounding its creation. Yip Harburg, who wrote the lyrics and co-authored the book, was blacklisted in Hollywood at the time the musical was being written. This period of professional adversity may have contributed to the sharp, critical edge found in the musical's commentary. Blacklisting often forced artists to find alternative outlets for their creative expression, and the stage provided a platform where such pointed social observations could be made.
The musical tackles a range of significant topics through its songs and narrative. These include evolution, nuclear energy, and consumerism. The fact that these subjects remain topical today underscores the foresight and enduring relevance of Harburg's and Saidy's work. "Jamaica" used its island setting not merely as an exotic backdrop, but as a microcosm to explore universal issues facing societies grappling with modernization and external influences.
From Belafonte to Horne: Adapting to Talent
While Harry Belafonte was the initial inspiration and intended star for "Jamaica," his withdrawal due to illness necessitated a significant re-tailoring of the production. This pivotal moment led to Lena Horne taking on the lead role of Savannah. The musical was then specifically adapted to highlight Horne's unique talents, demonstrating the flexibility and collaborative nature of Broadway productions. Horne's presence undoubtedly brought a different dynamic to the role and the show as a whole, shaping its final form.
The production, directed by Robert Lewis and produced by David Merrick, featured a strong creative team including choreographer Jack Cole, scenic designer Oliver Smith, costume designer Miles White, and lighting designer Jean Rosenthal. The cast also included Ricardo Montalbán as Koli, Ossie Davis as Cicero, Erik Rhodes as Governor, Adelaide Hall as Grandma Obeah, and Josephine Premice as Ginger, with Alvin Ailey and Nat Horne as principal dancers. This ensemble brought to life a musical that, through its engaging story and critical lens, offered audiences both entertainment and food for thought on pressing societal issues.
