Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” has been a part of popular culture for as long as anyone still alive today can remember. Originally released on Broadway in 1957, this beloved musical has captivated audiences for over six decades. With a familiar storyline and comfortable, picturesque Midwest setting, the elements of “The Music Man” may not be anything too fancy or out-of-this-world, but the comedic and romantic moments of the musical are sure to put a smile on all viewers’ faces by the finale.
“The Music Man” was performed as the District 7 Spring musical and follows the charismatic professor Harold Hill as he journeys to the town of River City, Iowa, in his attempts to bamboozle the townspeople into buying unnecessary amounts of marching band uniforms and instruments. Hill immediately is told to make friends with the local librarian and music teacher named Marian, played by senior Isabelle Colón in the Viking production. Professor Hill and Marian get off to a rough start because Marian is able to see through his façade of enthusiasm, but eventually the two fall in love.
Javian Smith (12) successfully auditioned to be the understudy to Harold Hill. Smith was able to perform as the main character two times.
“I auditioned for ‘The Music Man’ because I really enjoy acting. I’m glad I was involved with the musical because I got to meet so many new people, and ‘The Music Man’ is different from any other performance I have ever done because of the time and the place it is set in,” Smith said.
The setting of Iowa in 1912 allowed Meredith Willson to use very American-sounding music. Popular songs from the play include “Ya Got Trouble,” “Shipoopi” and “Till There was You.” The contrast of the fast-paced and rhythmic style of Professor Hill against Marian the librarian’s heartfelt and lungful ballads keeps the listeners on their toes, and multiple extended dance numbers present a challenge for any musicians brave enough to tackle the task of playing in the pit orchestra.
Brady Johnson (12) was the concertmaster violinist of “The Music Man’s” pit orchestra.
“Playing in the pit was a fun experience and there were many fun pieces to play. Although the musical took a lot of work and effort to prepare, the overall production and quality of the musical was worth it,” Johnson said.
When “The Music Man” was first released, it was met with great praise. A unique show for the time, Americans loved seeing the antics of the con man and how the citizens of a small town in Iowa came to accept Harold Hill despite his mistakes. Spartanburg High School was lucky enough to have both the resources and the student involvement to put on this beloved production.
Johnny Rubio (11) played Professor Harold Hill, and he is grateful for the opportunity District 7 gave him to showcase his musical talents.
“I auditioned for the musical was because one thing that I wanted to accomplish in my high school career was to be a part of a musical of some kind. My favorite part about being in the musical was watching the show come together and just looking forward to the fun rehearsals after school,” Rubio said.
