Musical References and Inspirations in ‘Schmigadoon!’
Schmigadoon! is now live at the Nederlander Theater in Manhattan. This musical satire is adapted from the 2021 AppleTV+ series. Its creation and the insights of its composer, Cinco Paul, highlight its homage to classic musicals.
Cinco Paul’s Musical Journey
Cinco Paul has been deeply rooted in musicals from a young age. His mother, a piano teacher, introduced him to various cast recordings. As a child, Paul imagined himself as characters in musicals like Camelot and Guys and Dolls. His familiarity extended across classics like South Pacific and My Fair Lady. Watching film adaptations such as The Sound of Music and Singin’ in the Rain further enriched his love for the genre.
Paul witnessed live performances by local theater companies in Phoenix. These included shows like Once Upon a Mattress and Carousel, which deeply moved him, especially songs like ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone.’
From Screenwriting to Musicals
Throughout his career as a screenwriter of family films, including Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets, Paul maintained his passion for musicals. In his 30s, he conceived a show inspired by the 1947 play Brigadoon. The plot involved two outsiders discovering a village where life unfolds like a musical. Initially shelved, the idea resurfaced decades later, evolving into Schmigadoon!
The AppleTV+ series, which aired for two seasons, centers on Melissa and Josh, two burned-out doctors. They find themselves in a town where musical performances are a norm. The comic narrative, complete with a dream ballet, sees even the skeptical Josh embracing his newfound musical world.
Reimagining as a Broadway Musical
The series has transitioned to a Broadway musical. According to Elisabeth Vincentelli, as stated in The New York Times, the show delivers affection without nostalgia and humor without moralizing. Each song in the musical serves as a tribute to one or more classic musicals.
Paul emphasizes that even audiences unfamiliar with musical nuances will find enjoyment. The humor appeals broadly, yet those with musical knowledge may appreciate clever references, like noting how Oscar Hammerstein equated ‘steal it or take it’ in Carousel‘s ‘Soliloquy.’
Schmigadoon! combines universal comedy with deeper layers for musical enthusiasts, creating a rich theatrical experience for all.