What's Happening?
In 1976, the Broadway musical 'Rex' opened, featuring music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, with Nicol Williamson starring as Henry VIII. A young Glenn Close made her Broadway debut in the production as Princess Mary. Despite the notable
talent involved, including Rodgers, a celebrated composer, and Harnick, known for 'Fiddler on the Roof,' the show did not achieve success. Critics found the book and overall staging to be weaker than the musical's credentials suggested. The production ran for only 48 regular performances after 14 previews, indicating a significant commercial failure. This marked an early career experience for Close, who would later become a highly acclaimed performer in both Broadway and Hollywood.
Why It's Important?
The failure of 'Rex' highlights the unpredictable nature of Broadway success, even when backed by established talent and compelling historical subjects. Richard Rodgers was a legendary composer, and Sheldon Harnick had a proven track record with 'Fiddler on the Roof.' The casting of Nicol Williamson, an acclaimed stage actor, and the debut of Glenn Close, who would become a major star, further underscore the high expectations surrounding the production. Its short run demonstrates that a strong creative team and a dramatic historical figure like Henry VIII do not guarantee commercial viability. This case serves as a reminder that the confluence of various elements, including critical reception of the book and staging, is crucial for a musical's longevity and financial success on Broadway. For emerging actors like Glenn Close, such experiences, even in a flop, can provide valuable early career exposure and development.
What's Next?
While 'Rex' itself had a brief run, its legacy is primarily tied to the early career of Glenn Close. For Close, this experience was a stepping stone, and she went on to achieve significant acclaim in subsequent Broadway productions and Hollywood films. The musical's failure did not impede her career trajectory. For the broader Broadway landscape, 'Rex' serves as a historical example of how even productions with strong pedigrees can struggle, influencing future decisions regarding investment in new shows and the assessment of creative elements beyond just the music and lyrics. The show's short run means there are no direct 'next steps' for the production itself, but its story contributes to the ongoing narrative of Broadway's challenges and triumphs.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of 'Rex' delves into the deeper implications of creative risk-taking in the performing arts. Despite the seemingly perfect combination of a dramatic historical figure (Henry VIII), a legendary composer (Richard Rodgers), and a celebrated lyricist (Sheldon Harnick), the musical failed to resonate with audiences and critics. This suggests that the 'book' or narrative structure of a musical is as vital as its musical score and performances. The production's inability to translate its strong individual components into a cohesive and engaging theatrical experience underscores the complex alchemy required for Broadway success. Furthermore, it illustrates that even the most promising projects can falter, providing a cautionary tale for producers and creators in the highly competitive world of live theater. The fact that Glenn Close emerged from this early setback to become a celebrated actress also highlights the resilience and talent required to navigate the industry.
