Embraceable You: The Music of George Gershwin Tickets

George Gershwin’s music has been embraced by theater lovers all over the world for decades. From Broadway to West End, his compositions have become synonymous with the golden age of American musical theater. The way he blended jazz, classical and popular music styles had never been heard before. His lush melodies and sophisticated harmonies continue to amaze listeners even today.

One of the reasons why Gershwin’s music works so well in theater is because of its timeless quality. His songs are not confined to any specific era or style that might become outdated after a while. Instead, they are universal in their appeal and can be adapted to suit various genres and moods. This versatility has helped many composers and performers successfully integrate Gershwin’s work into their own productions.

Gershwin’s contributions to musical theater began in the twenties when he collaborated with his brother Ira on several shows. Their first hit was “Lady Be Good!” (1924), which introduced the now-famous song “Fascinating Rhythm”. Other successful shows followed, such as “Oh, Kay!” (1926), “Funny Face” (1927) and “Strike Up the Band!” (1930). These shows featured catchy tunes and clever lyrics that reflected the spirit of the times.

Gershwin’s music was also used in Hollywood films, where it reached an even wider audience. Movies such as “An American in Paris” (1951) and “The Goldwyn Follies” (1938) incorporated Gershwin’s music into their soundtracks, making the songs accessible to viewers beyond the theater community. Even today, songs like “Summertime”, “I Got Rhythm”, “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” and “Embraceable You” are recognized by people of all ages.

In recent years, Gershwin’s music has inspired new theatrical productions. One of the most notable examples is “Crazy for You” (1992), a musical based on Gershwin’s works that won several Tony Awards. The show included songs from some of Gershwin’s lesser-known shows, as well as some of his most famous tunes. The result was a fresh take on Gershwin’s music that still captured its original charm and energy.

Another example of Gershwin’s music being embraced by contemporary theater is the use of “Rhapsody in Blue” in the operatic production “Street Scene”. The piece serves as a backdrop to the emotional climax of the show, providing a poignant contrast to the tragedy unfolding onstage.

Gershwin’s rise to fame as a composer evolved alongside the development of American theater. His music has stood the test of time and continues to be celebrated today, thanks to its enduring appeal and adaptability. Those who love Gershwin’s music can find it woven into the fabric of theater, from his original Broadway shows to modern productions inspired by his work.