Fading Legs of Broadway: Why Some Musical Hits Have Disappeared from the Stage

Throughout the history of Broadway, certain musicals have left a lasting impact, only to fall by the wayside. This article explores why some famous Broadway musicals are no longer being performed on Broadway, and what factors contribute to their untimely disappearance. Whether due to their strong reliance on a particular era, a unique star’s absence, or structural issues within the show itself, these musicals leave behind a rich legacy that continues to influence the theatrical landscape.

Period Pieces: Musical Hits Rooted in Time

One category of musicals that have faced challenges in reviving is those that are tied so deeply to their original time period. For instance, How to Succeed..., Hair, Rent (in its next revival), and Bye Bye Birdie fall into this category. These musicals are so entrenched in the time they were created in that any attempt to re-stage them would require a meticulous recreation of that era to provide context for a contemporary audience. As a result, these musicals are often available only in the form of 'period pieces'—productions that hark back to their original settings. This attachment to a specific era can make it difficult to bring them to the stage without a substantial loss of meaning or impact.

Star Vehicles and Unique Stars

Another factor that can prevent the revival of certain Broadway hits is their strong dependence on a specific star. Shows like Mame, Annie Get Your Gun, Hello Dolly, and Funny Girl are all examples of musicals that were performance vehicles for particular stars. When these stars depart, the shows can no longer effectively capture the magic that made them so successful. Even when stars do come back, as in the cases of Hello Dolly and Funny Girl—both revived with star power—these productions often have short runs due to the expiration of the star's contract. The absence of a star capable of carrying the show can lead to a less successful revival, even with improved production values.

Lady in the Dark: A Case Study of a Show That Never Revived

Works like Lady in the Dark exemplify a category of musicals that, while once celebrated, are unlikely to see a revival. This show’s success is heavily dependent on its star and its ability to draw in the audience. Moreover, Lady in the Dark is so firmly rooted in its time period that its themes and values may come across as dated to modern audiences. Its heavy reliance on a particular era and the untranslatable nature of its themes further complicate efforts to revive it.

Troubled Shows and Unfulfilled Potential

A third category of musicals that have struggled to find a place on Broadway in subsequent revivals includes shows with high-musical merit but problematic books or structures. For instance, Pal Joey and On a Clear Day have faced multiple unsuccessful revivals, highlighting the challenges of reimagining these works to meet the expectations of contemporary audiences. These musicals’ scores are often considered classic and beloved, yet the narrative and plot structure can be difficult to adapt.

Classical Composers and Disappearing Shows

Works by classic composers such as Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hart, among others, have also faded into relative obscurity. While the countless songs from these composers’ shows have become beloved standards and continue to be performed, the shows themselves have become less frequently staged. Examples include Fifty Million Frenchmen and Roberta. This trend highlights the ongoing importance of preserving and celebrating these composers' works through revivals.

Conclusion: The Future of Broadway's Masterworks

The decline and disappearance of certain Broadway musicals is a multifaceted issue influenced by time, audience expectations, and the changing landscape of performing arts. As we move into the 21st century and beyond, it will be fascinating to see which masterworks of today will continue to resonate and which will fade into the annals of history. These stories serve as a reminder of the challenges facing the world of musical theater and the importance of innovation and adaptability in the face of change.