Schmigadoon!'s Pastiche Score: A Deep Dive into Musical Theatre Gene-Splicing
In the latest issue of American Theatre, editor-in-chief Rob Weinert-Kendt examines the Broadway version of Schmigadoon!, developed for Apple+ TV by Cinco Paul and Ken Daurio. Paul characterizes his work as "pastiche rather than parody," with the intention of capturing the essence of classic Golden Age musicals. The score includes tracks such as "Baby Talk," reminiscent of "Do-Re-Mi" from The Sound of Music, and "Tribulation," which draws parallels to "Ya Got Trouble" from The Music Man. Paul acknowledges influences from musical legends like Rodgers & Hammerstein and Kander & Ebb, with styles ranging from the 1930s to the 1970s, referencing shows like Guys and Dolls and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. The heartfelt nature of "Tribulation" is crucial to the show's impact.
Key facts
- Schmigadoon! is a Broadway musical adapted from the Apple+ TV series co-created by Cinco Paul and Ken Daurio.
- The show's premise involves everyday people trapped in an old-timey musical.
- Cinco Paul wrote the book, lyrics, and music for the stage version.
- The score includes 11 new songs written for the stage.
- Paul describes his compositional style as 'pastiche rather than parody.'
- Specific song references include 'Do-Re-Mi' (The Sound of Music), 'Ya Got Trouble' (The Music Man), and 'You'll Never Walk Alone' (Carousel).
- The show's musical influences span from the 1930s to the 1970s, including Rodgers & Hammerstein, Frank Loesser, Adler & Ross, Charles Strouse, and Kander & Ebb.
- Paul experienced 'the anxiety of influence' with the ballad 'Suddenly,' which he feared was an unconscious theft.
Entities
Artists
- Cinco Paul
- Ken Daurio
- Alex Brightman
- Sara Chase
- Ann Harada
- Ana Gasteyer
- Rob Weinert-Kendt
- Jackson McHenry
Institutions
- American Theatre
- Apple+
Locations
- Broadway
- New York City
- United States