Why Did the Broadway Musical Anastasia Set the Story in Paris Rather Than Copenhagen?

Have you ever wondered why the Broadway musical Anastasia choose to set its enchanting tale in Paris instead of Copenhagen, the historical home of Grand Duchess Maria Feodorovna and the setting of the 1956 film adaptation? The answer to this question lies in the intricate details and creative choices made by the producers and writers involved in the production.

1. Maintaining a Favorite Song

A key reason behind this decision is the iconic song “Paris Holds the Key to Your Heart.” This melody is deeply ingrained in the hearts of many fans of the franchise, and its exclusion would have amounted to a significant loss. By choosing Paris, the producers ensured the preservation of this fan-favorite track while still staying true to the Anastasia spirit. This choice not only satisfied the audience but also underscored the musical's commitment to maintaining beloved elements from both the 1956 film and the 1997 animation.

2. The Romance of Paris

The romantic allure of Paris is another crucial factor in this choice. When the stage musical of Anastasia was first announced, Terrence McNally, the celebrated playwright, mentioned that the production adapted the “fairy tale” of Anastasia. Unlike the 1956 and 1997 films, the Broadway version was produced without the pretense of the real Anastasia's survival. The musical presents an alternate fantasy world where the Grand Duchess is alive, and this alternate reality requires a setting that enhances the dreamy and ethereal atmosphere.

Paris, with its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and romantic ambiance, fits perfectly into this narrative. The city’s iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-élysées, serve as a backdrop for a fairy-tale adventure. The romance of Paris adds a layer of enchantment to the story, emphasizing the escapism that Anastasia represents. The glamorous and whimsical nature of Paris aligns well with the musical’s focus on fantasy and adventure.

The Departure from Historical Accuracy

It is important to note that while the Broadway musical takes creative liberties, it does so with a nod to historical context. The setting of Paris as opposed to Copenhagen is a deliberate choice. Copenhagen, as a historical setting, would have provided a more grounded and realistic backdrop. However, the producers chose to dismiss the realism in favor of enhancing the fantasy. Maria Feodorovna, the historical Grand Duchess, did indeed live in Copenhagen, but her presence in a realist setting would have detracted from the magical atmosphere of the musical.

Conclusion

The choice to set Anastasia in Paris rather than Copenhagen is a carefully considered decision that serves both practical and thematic purposes. By maintaining the beloved song and enhancing the romantic and fantastical elements of the story, the producers capitalized on the potential of the Broadway stage. The adaptation's artistic license, while maintaining ties to historical sources, ensures that the narrative remains engaging and appealing to a wide audience of fans and newcomers alike. Whether you find yourself transported by the songs or captivated by the visual beauty of Paris, the choice of setting adds depth to the adaptation and enhances its appeal as a modern-day staging of the beloved Anastasia story.