Let's dive into the world of musical theater and explore a fascinating development in the upcoming production of 'Meet Me in St. Louis' at The Muny. This heartwarming musical, set against the backdrop of the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, has seen a unique addition with a new song penned by none other than Oscar winner Mark Sonnenblick.
The Song and Its Significance
Titled 'That's Enough of That,' this new composition is a testament to Sonnenblick's talent and a refreshing addition to the musical's narrative. The song is written for the character Katie Connelly, the Smith family's beloved housekeeper, who will be brought to life by the talented Tony winner, Beth Leavel. Arranged and orchestrated by Greg Anthony Rassen, the song is set to be a highlight of the musical's second act, offering a moment of wry advice from Katie to the frustrated eldest Smith daughters.
A Challenge and an Honor
Sonnenblick, in his own words, describes the task of writing for a musical as beloved as 'Meet Me in St. Louis' as both an honor and a challenge. The same sentiment applies to writing for an actress of Leavel's caliber. The songwriter hopes that the new song captures Katie's warm humor and heart, seamlessly integrating into the musical's existing narrative.
The Evolution of 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
What makes this production particularly fascinating is its evolution over the years. Since its first stage edition in 1960, 'Meet Me in St. Louis' has seen the addition of over 25 songs not featured in the film version. The 1944 film, a jukebox musical of its time, had only four original songs, with the rest being popular known tunes. The Muny's artistic director, Mike Isaacson, notes that the revised book by Gordon Greenberg for the 2018 production highlighted the need for a new second-act number for Katie. The opportunity to collaborate with Sonnenblick, one of today's most exciting songwriters, is a testament to the musical's ongoing evolution.
Sonnenblick's Success and Impact
Mark Sonnenblick's recent co-writing credits for 'KPop Demon Hunters' have earned him critical acclaim and commercial success, including an Academy Award and a Grammy Award. His musical, 'Midnight at The Never Get,' currently playing in London, showcases his talent and versatility. Sonnenblick's addition to 'Meet Me in St. Louis' is a significant development, bringing fresh energy to a beloved classic.
The Cast and Creative Team
Beth Leavel, a Tony winner for her performance in 'The Drowsy Chaperone,' is a seasoned veteran of The Muny, having appeared in numerous productions over the years. The upcoming production is directed by Maggie Burrows, with choreography by Sarah Meahl and music direction by conductor Paul Byssainthe Jr. The creative team's expertise and experience promise a high-quality production.
A Musical's Journey
'Meet Me in St. Louis' has a rich history, with its book being revised multiple times over the decades. The 2018 script, with additional material by Greenberg, will be used for this summer's production, the ninth at The Muny. This ongoing evolution showcases the musical's adaptability and its ability to stay relevant and engaging for modern audiences.
A Deeper Look
What many people don't realize is that the process of adding new songs to an established musical is a delicate balance. It requires a deep understanding of the original work and a creative vision that enhances, rather than detracts from, the existing narrative. Sonnenblick's addition of 'That's Enough of That' is a testament to his skill and the trust placed in him by The Muny's artistic team.
Conclusion
The upcoming production of 'Meet Me in St. Louis' at The Muny promises to be a captivating experience, offering a blend of classic musical theater and fresh, contemporary elements. Sonnenblick's new song, 'That's Enough of That,' is a testament to the ongoing evolution of this beloved musical, and a reminder of the power of collaboration and creativity in the world of theater. It's a privilege to witness the ongoing journey of this musical, and I, for one, am excited to see how it continues to evolve and captivate audiences.
