Show Credits: Book by Arthur Laurents Music by Stephen Sondheim Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Description: A legendary cult show, this wacky, intelligent, highly unconventional musical satire points ahead to
Stephen Sondheim's groundbreaking work in the 1970's even as it keeps a foot firmly rooted in the musical theatre's "golden age."
An absurdist fantasy by Arthur Laurents
and Stephen Sondheim, ANYONE CAN WHISTLE tells the story of a corrupt mayoress who fakes a miracle to revitalize her bankrupt town (through the resulting pilgrim trade) and the ill-fated romance between the rational nurse out to expose the fraud and the easy-going doctor determined to enjoy the chaos it brings. In the end, the show delivers a poignant message about the importance of the individual in a conformist society-but not before aiming its still-relevant barbs at government, religion, science and anything else that stands in its way!
With its circus-like atmosphere, ANYONE CAN WHISTLE features plenty of memorable, lovably cartoonish roles of all sizes. The dazzling, melodic Broadway-style score overflows with the youthful energy of experimentation, consisting of one showstopper after another, including two extensive ballets which provide opportunities for some inspired choreography.
Insight from the experts Staging Tip: Keep it light or the action can get weighed down. One successful production carried the action into the house -- adding to the confusion over who was a cookie and who was an audience member. Water springing from a rock: There are ways to do it without real water.
