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Candide

Closing: May 17, 1992

Candide - 1992 Off-Broadway History , Info & More

East 13th Street/CSC Theatre
136 East 13th Street New York, NY 10003

Candide, a satirical operetta, takes you on a wild journey exploring optimism in the face of relentless misfortune. Based on Voltaire's 1759 novella of the same name, Candide offers a scathing critique of the philosophy of optimism, particularly the notion that "all is for the best in the best of all possible worlds."

The operetta had its world premiere on Broadway in 1956. The music was composed by Leonard Bernstein, with lyrics primarily by Richard Wilbur, along with contributions from other notable figures like Dorothy Parker and Stephen Sondheim.

The story follows Candide, a young man raised in a sheltered environment who believes everything happens for a reason. He's thrust into a whirlwind of misfortune, encountering war, natural disasters, poverty, and heartbreak.

Through his experiences, Candide grapples with his unwavering optimism, constantly challenged by the harsh realities of the world.

Bernstein's music is a vibrant blend of classical, operatic, and popular styles, reflecting the diverse locations and situations Candide encounters. The witty lyrics employ satire and social commentary, poking fun at philosophical theories, religious hypocrisy, and the follies of human nature. Candide has enjoyed numerous revivals throughout the years, with interpretations that resonate with contemporary audiences. The musical's exploration of optimism, resilience, and the human condition remains relevant, sparking discussions about philosophy, fate, and finding meaning in a seemingly absurd world.


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John Tartaglia, Karla Puno Garcia and More Set for The Muny Season 108 Productions
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 30, 2026


The Muny has selected the seven teams of directors, choreographers, music directors and lead designers whose creative visions will shape the Tony Award-winning theatre’s 2026 season in Forest Park.

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by Stephi Wild - Jan 20, 2026


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It wasn’t until later on in theatre history that revivals began including shows that weren’t initially well received or financially successful in their initial engagements. As musical theatre continued to evolve, and more shows entered the canon, a consensus began to grow about shows being worthy of additional exploration even if they hadn’t been hits the first time around. What about musicals that had been ahead of their time, musicals that had fallen prey to circumstances, early works by writers who became successful later on, and of course, shows that found an audience after closing via their cast recordings?

Who Are the Most Tony-Nominated People of All Time?
by Jennifer Ashley Tepper - May 18, 2025


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by Blair Ingenthron - Aug 11, 2024


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by Sidney Paterra - Jun 14, 2024


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by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 25, 2024


Goodman Theatre has revealed the initial cast for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.

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by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 21, 2024


Jim May, Sokolow Theatre/Dance Ensemble’s founder, is being honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Martha Hill Dance Fund.

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by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 13, 2023


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Delaware County's Beloved Tradition Continues With Hedgerow Theatre's Smash Hit A CHRISTMAS CAROL Comedy Back This Holiday Season
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 8, 2023


Delaware County’s beloved tradition continues with Hedgerow Theatre’s smash hit A Christmas Carol Comedy back this holiday season. Join the holiday spirit with Katie Leamen's fun and festive adaptation of A Christmas Carol featuring Brian Anthony Wilson and Christopher Patrick Mullen.

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by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 11, 2023


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by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 8, 2023


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James Monroe Iglehart-Directed SPELLING BEE And More Announced For TheatreWorks Silicon Valley 53rd Season
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 10, 2023


TheatreWorks Silicon Valley has announced its 53rd season to be presented October 2023 through June 2024.

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by Stephi Wild - Mar 24, 2023


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by Stephi Wild - Feb 26, 2023


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Video: Full Cast and Creative Team Announced for NEW YORK, NEW YORK; Plus Watch a New Trailer!
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The full cast and creative team has been announced for the brand new Kander & Ebb musical, NEW YORK, NEW YORK. Plus, check out a new trailer of the cast in action!

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by A.A. Cristi - Dec 16, 2022


It's a smash hit! Hedgerow Theatre Company continues to spread holiday cheer far and wide in Delaware County. The theatre offers a playful take on a yuletide classic and audiences can't get enough. Hedgerow has SOLD OUT the run of Katie Leamen's A Christmas Carol Comedy, a US Premiere.

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Who Will Win at the 2022 Tony Awards?
by Team BWW - Jun 11, 2022


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by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 18, 2022


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by A.A. Cristi - Oct 27, 2021


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Student Blog: Zodiac Signs of Tony-Nominated Musicals
by Student Blogger: Madison Moore - Mar 22, 2021


The criteria are that these shows have been nominated for Best Musical from the 3rd Tony Awards (the ceremony that started the Best Musical category) in 1949 to the nominations of what will now be the 74th Tony Awards in 2021. I will be determining their signs based upon their Broadway premiere date. With those rules in mind, here we go!

Candide History

Other Productions of Candide

1992   Off-Broadway
Off-Broadway

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