Looking for a Broadway musical the whole family will enjoy? Then head to the St. James Theatre in New York City and get tickets for Finian's Rainbow. The show features a well-known cast, memorable musical numbers and a timely message of acceptance.
Finian's Rainbow: The Story and Cast
Finian (played by Tony winner Jim Norton) is a charming and optimistic Irishman who comes to the fictional state of MIssitucky with his beautiful daughter, Sharon (Kate Baldwin) in hopes of finding American prosperity.
As the two of them wait for Finian's fortune to grow in the shadow of Fort Knox, they become involved in local happenings. Kate quickly falls for the local heartthrob, Woody (Cheyenne Jackson). Finian tries to outsmart Og, an imported leprechaun (Christopher Fitzgerald).
Meanwhile, native Missituckians are struggling with racial issues. The hard-hearted Senator Rawkins (David Schramm) lords over the community with an intolerant and greedy hand. Local sharecroppers, led by Dottie (Terri White) and Sunny (Guy Davis) wish for wealth and opportunity beyond their reach.
In typical Broadway musical fashion, all problems are resolved before the curtain closes. In the meantime, plenty of magical special effects and clever musical numbers keep the audience happily entertained.
How Are Things in Glocca Morra? and Other Popular Musical Numbers
Finian's Rainbow was written by Yip Harburg, Burton Lane and Fred Saidy. It premiered on Broadway in 1947 and enjoyed several revivals during the 1950s and 1960s. In 1968, it was made into a motion picture starring Fred Astair and Petula Clark.
Audience members may recognize some of the musical's well-known songs. How Are Things in Glocca Morra? is perhaps the most popular tune. A sweet, Irish ballad, it voices an immigrant's longing for home.
Necessity is a knee-slapping Gospel number which showcases Terri White's impressive vocal talent, while sharing the story of poverty in the South. The Begat and The Great Come-and-Get-It Day add further soul and harmony to the plot.
Every love story needs a love song. Old Devil Moon, the catchy, romantic tune performed by Baldwin and Jackson, is a charming high point. And Look to the Rainbow carries a theme of hope throughout the entire show.
A Message of Racial Harmony and Financial Prudence
Written during a time of racial injustice in the United States, Finian's Rainbow gently teaches lessons of acceptance, tolerance and social justice. As the cruel Senator Rawkins learns, quite literally, the importance of treating others as he would like to be treated, the audience is taught the necessity of fairness and equality.
A secondary theme of greed versus generosity is particularly timely in these days of financial uncertainty. As the citizens of Missitucky face a credit crisis, viewers are reminded of the need for frugality.
Finian's Rainbow is a great Broadway musical for audiences of all ages. Tickets are available through March 2010. Viewers will enjoy memorable music, a talented cast of characters and a meaningful social message.
To learn about Broadway discounts, see Broadway Tickets on a Budget.
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