"The Goodbye Girl" musical made its Broadway debut in 1993, bringing a beloved Neil Simon story to the stage with a new musical dimension. This production, based on Simon's 1977 film screenplay, embarked on a journey that included out-of-town tryouts and a significant change in its creative leadership before ultimately opening in New York City. The musical aimed to capture the charm and humor of its source material, featuring a talented cast and a score
by Marvin Hamlisch and David Zippel.
From Chicago Tryouts to Broadway Premiere
The path to Broadway for "The Goodbye Girl" musical began with out-of-town tryouts at the Shubert Theatre in Chicago. These previews ran from December 29, 1992, to January 30, 1993, serving as a crucial period for refining the production. During this time, a significant change occurred behind the scenes: director Gene Saks was replaced by Michael Kidd. This kind of directorial shift is not uncommon in the development of a new Broadway show, as producers often seek to optimize the creative vision during the tryout phase.
Further adjustments were made during the Chicago run, including the creation of a new opening song specifically for Bernadette Peters, who played Paula, and Tammy Minoff, who played her daughter Lucy. This song was designed to be an exuberant piece about their hopeful move to California from New York City, with the intention of helping the character of Paula appear more lighthearted, as she had been perceived as a "drip" in the first act. Despite these mid-production changes, ticket sales for the Chicago tryouts were described as "brisk," and the musical secured a substantial $10 million advance for its upcoming Broadway engagement, indicating strong initial interest from audiences and investors.
A Star-Studded Broadway Engagement
Following its Chicago tryouts, "The Goodbye Girl" musical officially opened on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre on March 4, 1993. The production featured a notable cast, with Bernadette Peters starring as Paula McFadden and Martin Short making his Broadway debut in the role of Elliot Garfield. Their performances were central to the musical's presentation, bringing the lead characters from the original film to life on the stage.
Supporting cast members included Carol Woods as Mrs. Crosby, Susann Fletcher as Donna Douglas, Tammy Minoff as Lucy, Lisa Molina as Melanie, and Erin Torpey as Cynthia. The musical was directed by Michael Kidd, who had taken over during the Chicago tryouts, and choreographed by Graciela Daniele. The show ran for 188 performances and had 23 previews before closing on August 15, 1993. The Marquis Theatre, a prominent venue in the heart of the theater district, provided the setting for this highly anticipated adaptation.
The Musical's Legacy and Reception
While the Broadway run of "The Goodbye Girl" concluded after 188 performances, its journey extended beyond New York. Original cast recordings were released for both the Broadway and later West End productions, allowing audiences to experience the musical's score. However, critical commentary on the London cast recording noted that it represented an "unnecessary revision," with a "skimpier new score" that did not improve upon the original. The loss of all three of Bernadette Peters' solos in the London version was particularly highlighted as inexplicable.
Despite some of the challenges and criticisms, the musical received recognition within the industry. David Zippel, the lyricist, earned a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics, and the production itself was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical. These nominations underscore the effort and talent involved in bringing "The Goodbye Girl" to the Broadway stage, cementing its place in the history of musical theater adaptations.
