Those Eyes! Those Nose! Those Cheek! (And That Audio!)

Posted on by

26

Welcome to a new Musical Theatre Monday! This month, I’m sharing a songs-only audio — with subscribers who comment below to alert me of their interest — of a production of the Gershwins’ Funny Face (1927), which originally starred the Astaire siblings, including Fred, who was born 120 years ago (next month). We originally covered this show back in 2014, but since then, I’ve had the pleasure of obtaining an audio of the 1981 Goodspeed Opera production that, unlike My One And Only (1983) — which began with the intention of reworking the original show — was actually a fairly faithful presentation (as far as the score was concerned). Interpolations were few and most of them were at least written for the original.

It’s one of George and Ira’s finest scores, and almost every song is a gem. You’ve heard them all before, but as a sample, here’s one of the rarer ones, “Dance Alone With You,” which was cut and then put into Rosalie (1928) with new lyrics and a new title, “Ev’rybody Knows I Love Somebody.” This comes from the aforementioned Goodspeed audio. Subscribers, comment below and let me know if you’d like access to the full songs-only recording!

 

 

Come back next month for a new Musical Theatre rarity! And stay tuned tomorrow for more sitcom fun!

26 thoughts on “Those Eyes! Those Nose! Those Cheek! (And That Audio!)”

  1. Hi, Jackson! I would love to hear this audio. It would be great to hear a (relatively) faithful version of this score. Thanks for sharing!

  3. I’m usually a purist, (although I did love My One and Only) so I’m delighted to have a chance to hear this score! Many thanks for the opportunity.

  8. Thanks for the great post, Jackson. I love the score of Funny Face—it’s the Gershwin show I most would want to give an authentic restoration if I had the time (and money!). I’m pleasantly surprised to hear that audio from the Goodspeed production exists. I would absolutely love to hear it if possible. Thanks again!

  10. Hi! Funny Face has always been one of my most favorite musicals. My mom and I watched the film version once and we both fell in love with it. In fact it’s one of the only musicals she really likes at all!

    I would love the audio if you could send it. Thanks!

    • Hi, Shawn! Thanks for reading and commenting.

      I have emailed you at your gmail address.

      (And I hope you know the film adaptation has nothing to do with the stage show.)

  11. So glad that I’ve stumbled upon your blog! Musical theatre history fascinates me, especially the little-known gems of the early 20th century.

    I would love the audio if you’re still sending it out at this time!

    Thank you!

    • Hi, Kylee! Thanks for reading and commenting.

      Please subscribe to this blog using your preferred email address and I will send a copy your way.

  12. Ho Jackson
    Please send another oldie but goodie ” Funny Facr”. I am really glad I came upon your blog as I love to research the composer and lyricist of musicals that I liked. to find more of their work. Thanks so.much.

    Donna

Comments are closed.