Pacific Overtures: Musical Information & Synopsis
Synopsis
Pacific Overtures follows the impact of American Commodore Matthew Perry’s arrival to Japan in 1853, prompting the country to reevaluate its traditions and policies. Through the eyes of two friends, Kayama and Manjiro, Pacific Overtures explores the clash between Eastern and Western cultures, the consequences of modernization, and the hidden costs of progress.
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Musical Information
Musical Type: Late 20th Century (1976)
Cast Size: 20+
Genre: Drama / Historical
Setting: 1850s-1860s / Japan
Creative Team
Music/Lyrics: Stephen Sondheim
Book: John Weidman
Awards
New York Drama Critics’ Circle: Best Musical (1976)
Cast Albums
Original Broadway Cast (1976)➝
Licensing
Pacific Overtures is available to license through Music Theatre International.
Australasia Licensing
Europe Licensing
International Licensing
Resources
Sheet Music: Amazon➝
Tags
1970s, Child Role, Dramatic, Educational, History, Narrator, Original, Political, Two-Word
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Last Reviewed: March 9, 2026