The musical "The Rothschilds," a collaboration between book writer Sherman Yellen, lyricist Sheldon Harnick, and composer Jerry Bock, has a notable production history marked by its original Broadway run and subsequent significant revisions. First premiering on Broadway in 1970, the show garnered critical attention, earning nine Tony Award nominations. Its enduring appeal led to an Off-Broadway revival in 1990, but it was a 2015 reworking that brought
a fresh perspective and structural changes to the beloved story.
The Original Broadway Production and Early Revival
"The Rothschilds" made its debut on Broadway in 1970, introducing audiences to the epic tale of the Rothschild family's rise. This initial production established the musical's core narrative, tracing the family's journey from their humble beginnings in Germany to their establishment of a powerful financial empire and their efforts to secure rights for European Jews. The collaboration between Bock and Harnick on this musical proved to be their last, marking a significant point in their careers.
Following its Broadway run, the musical was successfully revived Off-Broadway in 1990. This revival demonstrated the show's continued relevance and its ability to resonate with audiences two decades after its premiere. The 1990 production featured Robert Cuccioli in the role of Nathan Rothschild, a character he would revisit in a different capacity in a later iteration of the show.
The Transformation into 'Rothschild & Sons'
In 2015, Sheldon Harnick and Sherman Yellen undertook a substantial revision of the musical, resulting in a new version titled "Rothschild & Sons." This revision involved a significant restructuring of the book, transforming the original multi-act show into a single-act production. A key aspect of this reimagining was the incorporation of previously written but unheard songs by Harnick and Bock, enriching the musical's score with new material.
The revised story of "Rothschild & Sons" placed a particular emphasis on Mayer Rothschild's relationships with his sons, offering a more focused exploration of the family dynamics at the heart of their success. This Off-Broadway production was staged by York Theatre at the Theater at St. Peter's, running from October to November 2015. Jeffrey B. Moss directed the production, and Robert Cuccioli, who had played Nathan in the 1990 revival, took on the role of Mayer Rothschild, with Glory Crampton playing Gutele.
Critical Reception and Lasting Impact of the Revision
The "Rothschild & Sons" production received mixed reviews, yet many critics acknowledged its merits. Musical Theatre Review praised Harnick's "clear, concise lyrics" for advancing the plot and commended Moss's "fluid staging" and the "fine performances," particularly Robert Cuccioli's portrayal of Mayer. Victor Gluck described the production as "engrossing and admirable." The New York Times lauded the "rich new production," highlighting the "splendid 18th-century men’s costumes by Carrie Robbins," the "low-key yet opulent scenic design by James Morgan," and the "assertively nuanced lighting by Kirk Bookman." The revised show was not only recorded on JAY Records but also filmed for the archive at Lincoln Center, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations. This reworking was praised for clarifying the show, solidifying its place in musical theater history.
