Rose-Marie

A Musical Play

Book and Lyrics by Otto Harbach and Oscar Hammerstein 2nd

Rose-Marie debuted on Broadway in 1924. It became one of the longest-running Broadway musicals of the 1920s and was known for its engaging romance, adventure, and lush, melodic score that combined American and European operetta traditions.

Set in the Canadian Rockies, the musical features a love story between Rose-Marie La Flamme, a French Canadian girl, and Jim Kenyon, a miner. Their romance faces challenges due to societal expectations and obstacles, including an accusation of murder against Jim. The story integrates suspense, comedic elements, and the struggle for justice, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty and cultural tension.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Rose-Marie is its use of themes and motifs that blend American musical elements with operetta conventions. The plot embraces romantic escapism and rugged North American scenery, drawing audiences into a distinct setting uncommon in musicals of the era. The musical’s score contributed to its popularity, with the song "Indian Love Call" becoming a major hit, capturing audiences with its haunting melody and romantic lyrics. This song, in particular, became emblematic of the show, embodying the longing and passion of the central love story.

Hammerstein and Harbach's work on Rose-Marie is notable as a precursor to Hammerstein's later successes with Richard Rodgers. It showcases his interest in combining music, lyrics, and narrative to explore complex characters and heightened emotions. 

The musical’s success helped pave the way for operetta-style musicals with American settings, challenging the norm of European locales and stories. Moreover, it demonstrated that musicals could address more substantial themes within a romantic framework, which became a staple of later works. The show's combination of romance, suspense, and high emotional stakes resonated with audiences, ensuring its place in musical theater history and influencing generations of musical storytelling.

 ISBN 979-8302559715 

$12.95

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