Today we are celebrating this week's breaking news that a classic musical is eying a Broadway return in honor of its 50th anniversary, MAN OF LA MANCHA.
I, Don Quixote Based on the canonical classic by Miguel De Cervantes, DON QUIXOTE, the 1965 musical MAN OF LA MANCHA has a unique trajectory, even in the scheme of Broadway musicals from the last 50 years. The original production was a massive hit in its own time, winning multiple Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Actor In A Musical (Richard Kiley), Best Direction Of A Musical (Joe Layton) and Best Score (Mitch Leigh and Joe Darion) and going on to run for more than 2000 performances in its original mainstage iteration, but it did not come about in the usual way - as if such things even exist in the theatre. Needless to say, the piece has endured and thrived since that time, as well, with MAN OF LA MANCHA being a staple of high schools and community theaters around the world as well as a popular title for revival on Broadway and beyond - to that point, originator of the title role himself, Richard Kiley, returned to the memory musical in 1972 for a new production and also returned again in 1977. Subsequent Don Quixotes to have graced the Great White Way include Raul Julia, who led a 1992 revival co-starring Sheena Easton, as well as a 2002 reboot featuring Brian Stokes Mitchell and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio. Additionally, memorable national tours of the property that have cropped up over the years have included a Hal Linden-led revival in 1988 and a Robert Goulet showpiece production in the late 1990s. Also, some other famous essayers of the eponymous lead have included Placido Domingo, who recorded it for an all-star cast album in 1996, as well as Australian stage superstar Anthony Warlow, not to mentional the original West End production showcasing Keith Michell and original Broadway leading lady Joan Diener. Then, there is the unfortunate 1972 feature film with Peter O'Toole and Sophia Loren - the less said about that misguided iteration of the popular property, the better. So, what has made MAN OF LA MANCHA such a recurring and oft-revived musical and why are actors so drawn to the juicy roles offered by the unquestionably complex but nevertheless audience-pleasing show? With the 50th anniversary looming and rumors of a brand new revival seeking out star headliners currently in the works, now is the ideal time to revisit the many reasons why MAN OF LA MANCHA is a modern musical classic of the finest order.Next, sample the thrilling overture from the original Broadway cast recording.
Now, see Richard Kiley and the original cast on THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW.
Also, Joan Diener joins Jacques Brel for a French-language recording.
Don't miss the trailer for the 1972 film adaptation.
Check out Raul Julia and Sheena Easton in the 1992 revival.
Witness Robert Goulet get a special birthday surprise during the show.
Here is Linda Eder making a major diva moment out of the title song.
Brian Stokes Mitchell made MAN OF LA MANCHA all his own in 2002.
See revival replacement Aldonza/Dulcinea Marin Mazzie stop the show.
Lastly, Colm Wilkinson breathes fiery passion into the score's biggest hit.
As a special bonus, Elvis himself sings "The Impossible Dream".
What is your absolute favorite song from the gem-packed score for MAN OF LA MANCHA? Also, who would you ideally like to see in a big Broadway revival of the familiar tuner? With a score this stacked and a drama this rich, the possibilities for greatness are as endless as your very own dreams.
Photo Credits: Stratford Festival, etc.
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