Anyone Can Whistle 1964 - Articles Page 8

Opened: April 4, 1964

Anyone Can Whistle - 1964 - Broadway History , Info & More

Majestic Theatre (Broadway)
245 West 44th St. New York, NY

A legendary cult show, this wacky, intelligent, highly unconventional musical satire points ahead to Stephen Sondheim's groundbreaking work in the 1970s even as it keeps a foot firmly rooted in the musical theatre's "golden age."brbrAn absurdist fantasy by Arthur Laurents and Stephen Sondheim (two of the authors of "West Side Story" and "Gypsy") "Anyone Can Whistle" tells the story of a corrupt mayoress who fakes a miracle to revitalize her bankrupt town (through the resulting pilgrim trade) and the ill-fated romance between the rational nurse out to expose the fraud and the easy-going doctor determined to enjoy the chaos it brings. In the end, the show delivers a poignant message about the importance of the individual in a conformist society-but not before aiming its still-relevant barbs at government, religion, science and anything else that stands in its way!brbrWith its circus-like atmosphere, "Anyone Can Whistle" features plenty of memorable, lovably cartoonish roles of all sizes. The dazzling, melodic Broadway-style score overflows with the youthful energy of experimentation, consisting of one showstopper after another, including two extensive ballets which provide opportunities for some inspired choreography.

Anyone Can Whistle - 1964 - Broadway Cast

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Anyone Can Whistle - 1964 - Broadway Articles Page 8

Melbourne Recital Centre & Magnormos Present A SONDHEIM TRIPTYCH, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4
by BWW News Desk - Sep 20, 2010


To celebrate Stephen Sondheim's 80th birthday Melbourne Recital Centre and Magnormos are proud to present 'A Sondheim Triptych' to be performed at Elisabeth Murdoch Hall. Sondheim is widely regarded as the most influential writer in Broadway history, with major works including WEST SIDE STORY, GYPSY, A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, COMPANY, SWEENEY TODD, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC and INTO THE WOODS. This is an exclusive opportunity to see three works that are rarely performed, but greatly loved by Sondheim fans across the globe. Come and experience these works, performed live by some of the Australia's top musical theatre talent, in one of Melbourne's most exciting performance venues. These works will be presented in full with concert staging, keeping the focus on Sondheim's brilliant writing and our extraordinary cast.

Sondheim Theatre Marquee Unveiled 9/15
by BWW News Desk - Sep 15, 2010


On Wednesday, September 15th at 6:30PM, the Broadway community will gather alongside Stephen Sondheim as the lights of the newly dedicated Stephen Sondheim Theatre marquee are lit for the first time.

LuPone, Lane & More to Unveil Sondheim Theatre Tomorrow
by Robert Diamond - Sep 14, 2010


Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 15th at 6:30PM, the Broadway community will gather alongside Stephen Sondheim as the lights of the newly dedicated Stephen Sondheim Theatre marquee are lit for the first time.

'Sondheim: The Birthday Concert' PBS Special Gets Nov. 16 Release
by Jessica Lewis - Sep 13, 2010


As BroadwayWorld has reported, The New York Philharmonic's SONDHEIM: The Birthday Concert, which took place on March 15-16, 2010 at Avery Fisher Hall, will be broadcast on THIRTEEN'S Great Performances on PBS on Wednesday, November 24 (check local listings). WNET, Channel 13 in New York City, will air the concert at 9:30 p.m. that evening. Today, it has been revealed that the Image Entertainment will release the program DVD and Blu-Ray on November 16, 2010. The concert includes songs and orchestral pieces from Sondheim musical theater favorites such as Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Merrily We Roll Along, Into the Woods, and Sunday in the Park with George. Today, it has been announced that in addition to the PBS telecast, the concert will be released on DVD in November by Image Entertainment.

Sondheim Theatre Marquee to Be Unveiled 9/15
by Jessica Lewis - Aug 30, 2010


On Wednesday, September 15th at 6:30PM, the Broadway community will gather alongside Stephen Sondheim as the lights of the newly dedicated Stephen Sondheim Theatre marquee are lit for the first time.

Melbourne Recital Centre & Magnormos Present A SONDHEIM TRIPTYCH, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4
by Michelle Wong - Aug 4, 2010


To celebrate Stephen Sondheim's 80th birthday Melbourne Recital Centre and Magnormos are proud to present 'A Sondheim Triptych' to be performed at Elisabeth Murdoch Hall. Sondheim is widely regarded as the most influential writer in Broadway history, with major works including WEST SIDE STORY, GYPSY, A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, COMPANY, SWEENEY TODD, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC and INTO THE WOODS. This is an exclusive opportunity to see three works that are rarely performed, but greatly loved by Sondheim fans across the globe. Come and experience these works, performed live by some of the Australia's top musical theatre talent, in one of Melbourne's most exciting performance venues. These works will be presented in full with concert staging, keeping the focus on Sondheim's brilliant writing and our extraordinary cast.

Photo Coverage: LuPone, Cerveris, McDonald et al. Pay Tribute to Sondheim at Ravinia Gala
by Jessica Lewis - Aug 3, 2010


On Saturday, July 31, stage favorites Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Michael Cerveris and George Hearn teamed up with the Ravina Festival and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in tribute to Stephen Sondheim. Directed by Lonny Price and conducted by Paul Gemignani, the concert featured Sondheim classics from shows such as A Little Night Music, Sunday in the Park with George, Sweeney Todd, West Side Story, Gypsy and more. BroadwayWorld brings you coverage of the concert below.

'Sondheim: The Birthday Concert' PBS Special Gets Nov. DVD Release
by Jessica Lewis - Jul 23, 2010


As BroadwayWorld reported yesterday, The New York Philharmonic's SONDHEIM: The Birthday Concert, which took place on March 15-16, 2010 at Avery Fisher Hall, will be broadcast on THIRTEEN'S Great Performances on PBS on Wednesday, November 24 (check local listings). WNET, Channel 13 in New York City, will air the concert at 9:30 p.m. that evening. The concert includes songs and orchestral pieces from Sondheim musical theater favorites such as Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Merrily We Roll Along, Into the Woods, and Sunday in the Park with George. Today, it has been announced that in addition to the PBS telecast, the concert will be released on DVD in November by Image Entertainment.

PA Shakes' A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM Closes 7/11
by BWW News Desk - Jul 11, 2010


Outrageous situations lead to hilarious complications in the legendary musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opening on the Main Stage at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Friday, June 25. With previews June 23 and 24, Forum continues through July 11. Ticket prices range from $25 to $53.

PA Shakes Launches A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM 6/23
by BWW News Desk - Jun 25, 2010


Outrageous situations lead to hilarious complications in the legendary musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opening on the Main Stage at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Friday, June 25. With previews June 23 and 24, Forum continues through July 11. Ticket prices range from $25 to $53.

PA Shakes Launches A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM 6/23
by BWW News Desk - Jun 23, 2010


Outrageous situations lead to hilarious complications in the legendary musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opening on the Main Stage at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Friday, June 25. With previews June 23 and 24, Forum continues through July 11. Ticket prices range from $25 to $53.

Sondheim & Weidman's ROAD SHOW To Play Menier Chocolate Factory
by Charlie Piane - Jun 17, 2010


Menier Chocolate Factory Theatre's David Babani told the U.K. Daily Mail's Baz Bamigboye that plans are in progress to produce Stephen Sondheim & John Weidman's ROADSHOW at the venue.

PA Shakes Launches A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM 6/23
by Gabrielle Sierra - Jun 9, 2010


Outrageous situations lead to hilarious complications in the legendary musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opening on the Main Stage at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Friday, June 25. With previews June 23 and 24, Forum continues through July 11. Ticket prices range from $25 to $53.

Photo Coverage: New York City Gala - Tribute to SONDHEIM Part 2
by Walter McBride - Apr 29, 2010


Angela Lansbury and Catherine Zeta-Jones, currently starring in the Broadway revival of A Little Night Music, led the all-star cast performing in Stephen Sondheim's 80th birthday celebration on April 26 at New York City Center. Like Lansbury and Zeta-Jones, all of the performers have either originated Sondheim characters or performed them in notable revivals. As a group, the gala's performers have appeared in more than 75 Sondheim shows. The gala, directed by Tony Award winner John Doyle, highlighted numbers from shows for which Sondheim has written both music and lyrics, and featured a full orchestra conducted by Encores! Music Director Rob Berman. The benefit will help fund New York City Center's artistic and education programs. In addition, a portion of the evening's proceeds will go to Young Playwrights Inc, a charity of great importance to Sondheim.

Photo Coverage: New York City Center Gala Honoring SONDHEIM- Part 1
by Walter McBride - Apr 29, 2010


Angela Lansbury and Catherine Zeta-Jones, currently starring in the Broadway revival of A Little Night Music, led the all-star cast performing in Stephen Sondheim's 80th birthday celebration on April 26 at New York City Center. Like Lansbury and Zeta-Jones, all of the performers have either originated Sondheim characters or performed them in notable revivals. As a group, the gala's performers have appeared in more than 75 Sondheim shows. The gala, directed by Tony Award winner John Doyle, highlighted numbers from shows for which Sondheim has written both music and lyrics, and featured a full orchestra conducted by Encores! Music Director Rob Berman. The benefit will help fund New York City Center's artistic and education programs. In addition, a portion of the evening's proceeds will go to Young Playwrights Inc, a charity of great importance to Sondheim.

Photo Flash: Sneak Peek - City Center's Sondheim Celebration
by Jessica Lewis - Apr 28, 2010


Angela Lansbury and Catherine Zeta-Jones, currently starring in the Broadway revival of A Little Night Music, led the all-star cast performing in Stephen Sondheim's 80th birthday celebration on April 26 at New York City Center. Like Lansbury and Zeta-Jones, all of the performers have either originated Sondheim characters or performed them in notable revivals. As a group, the gala's performers have appeared in more than 75 Sondheim shows. The gala, directed by Tony Award winner John Doyle, highlighted numbers from shows for which Sondheim has written both music and lyrics, and featured a full orchestra conducted by Encores! Music Director Rob Berman. The benefit will help fund New York City Center's artistic and education programs. In addition, a portion of the evening's proceeds will go to Young Playwrights Inc, a charity of great importance to Sondheim. BroadwayWorld brings you a sneak peek of the evening below. Stay tuned for complete coverage coming soon!

Lansbury, Esparza & More Celebrate Sondheim at New York City Center Benefit, 4/26
by BWW News Desk - Apr 26, 2010


New York City Center will celebrate Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winner Stephen Sondheim on the occasion of his 80th birthday on Monday, April 26 with a gala celebration featuring stars who have shone in Sondheim musicals including Michael Cerveris, Barbara Cook, Raúl Esparza, Victor Garber, Joanna Gleason, Angela Lansbury, Patti LuPone, Donna Murphy and Bernadette Peters. Directed by Tony Award-winner John Doyle, the evening will highlight shows for which Mr. Sondheim has written both music and lyrics, and will feature a full orchestra conducted by Encores! Music Director Rob Berman. The Benefit will help fund New York City Center's artistic and education programs. In addition, a portion of the evening's proceeds will go to Young Playwrights Inc, a charity of great importance to Mr. Sondheim.

Photo Coverage: Bergdorf Goodman Honors Sondheim with Window Displays
by Jessica Lewis - Apr 21, 2010


Stephen Sondheim is widely acknowledged as the most innovative, most influential, and most important composer and lyricist in modern Broadway history. He is the winner of an Academy Award, numerous Tony Award, multiple Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize. Some of his other accolades include a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kennedy Center Honors (1993), the National Medal of Arts (1996), the American Academy of Arts and Letters' Gold Medal for Music (2006) and a special Tony Awardâfor Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre (2008).

SOUND OFF: Sondheim Palooza Part 2
by Robert Diamond - Apr 20, 2010


Today, we are taking a listen to ANYONE CAN WHISTLE and COMPANY, two of the most genre-bending and revolutionary musicals of the latter twentieth century, both boasting Sondheim's strongest songs of the sixties. These recordings contain some of the most legendary and illustrious Broadway casts of all time and include the names Angela Lansbury, Lee Remick, Bernadette Peters, Elaine Stritch, Raul Esparza, Dean Jones, Larry Kert and Jane Krakowski, just to name a few...

ANYONE CAN WHISTLE Revival Plays The Jermyn Street Theatre Through 4/17
by BWW News Desk - Apr 17, 2010


The Jermyn Street Theatre in London will revive the musical ANYONE CAN WHISTLE as a part of its 2010 season. The production will run March 10th through April 17th, 2010. The show will feature a team of musical direction and arrangements by Tom Attwood, design by Morgan Large, and will be directed by Tom Littler.

STAGE TUBE: Sondheim Presents Lansbury With Award
by Charlie Piane - Apr 14, 2010


Angela Lansbury, the great star of stage, film, and television, was honored April 12 with the first annual Stephen Sondheim Award, given by Virginia's Signature Theatre at a black-tie Gala Benefit at the Embassy of Italy. The Sondheim Award, established by Signature last year in the name of America's most influential contemporary musical theater writer and composer, was presented to the actress by Mr. Sondheim himself.

Angela Lansbury Honored With 'The Stephen Sondheim Award' From Virginia's Signature Theatre
by Charlie Piane - Apr 12, 2010


Angela Lansbury, the great star of stage, film, and television, was honored tonight with the first Stephen Sondheim Award, given by Virginia's Signature Theatre at a black-tie Gala Benefit at the Embassy of Italy. The Sondheim Award, established by Signature last year in the name of America's most influential contemporary musical theater writer and composer, was presented to the actress by Mr. Sondheim himself.

Angela Lansbury Presented With Signature's The Stephen Sondheim Award Tonight
by Gabrielle Sierra - Apr 12, 2010


Angela Lansbury, the great star of stage, film, and television, was honored tonight with the first annual Stephen Sondheim Award, given by Virginia's Signature Theatre at a black-tie Gala Benefit at the Embassy of Italy.

ANYONE CAN WHISTLE Review Roundup
by Jeff Dennhardt - Apr 10, 2010


ANYONE CAN WHISLTE is an experimental satire that takes aim at every target on the American cultural scene of the moment-conformity, psychology, race relations, greed, religion and politics. It divided the critics, thrilled the emerging counter-culture, baffled the masses, and became an instant legend-one that has grown over the years along with Sondheim's reputation. The title song and 'With So Little to Be Sure Of' have survived as cabaret classics, but the rarely heard complete score is a riot of jazzy, show-biz razzmatazz, waltzes, gospel numbers and Broadway pastiche, as full of variety and surprise as the show that gave birth to it.

BWW Interviews: Raul Esparza - Learning How to WHISTLE
by Jena Tesse Fox - Apr 6, 2010


The Tony-nominated actor talks about Sondheim, Encores!, Anyone Can Whistle, creating a character and making a career in New York.

Anyone Can Whistle FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What productions of Anyone Can Whistle have there been?
Anyone Can Whistle has had 9 productions including Broadway which opened in 1964, Broadway which opened in 1964, Off-Broadway which opened in 1974, Off-Off-Broadway which opened in 1980, London Fringe which opened in 2003, Regional (US) which opened in 2003, Regional (US) which opened in 2004, Regional (US) which opened in 2005 and Regional (US) which opened in 2005.
What Tony Awards has Anyone Can Whistle been nominated for?
Best Choreography for Herbert Ross.

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