The Music Man: Musical Information & Synopsis


Synopsis

The Music Man follows con artist Harold Hill as he arrives in the small town of River City, Iowa. Posing as a traveling band organizer, Hill convinces the townsfolk to invest in instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he promises to form. However, Hill doesn’t know the first thing about music. As he keeps his scheme afloat, he falls in love with Marian, the town’s skeptical librarian. The Music Man touches on themes of love, trust, and the universal language of music.


Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through the following links, we may earn a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. See our disclosure for more info.


Musical Information

Musical Type: Golden Age (1957)

Cast: Large (25+ Roles)Child RolesTeen Roles

Genre: Comedy

Setting: 1910s / USA (Iowa)


Creative Team

Music/Lyrics/Book: Meredith Willson


Awards

New York Drama Critics’ Circle: Best Musical (1958)

Tony Award: Best Musical (1958)


Cast Albums

Original Broadway Cast (1957)➝

Original London Cast (1961)➝

Broadway Cast (2000)➝

Broadway Cast (2022)➝


Licensing

The Music Man is available to license through Music Theatre International.

Australasia Licensing Options

Europe Licensing Options

International Licensing Options

Resources

Audition Songs: Theatre Trip

Sheet Music: Amazon➝


Tags

1950s, BandsClassicComedic, Family-Friendly, Golden Age, Original, Popular, Solo Composer, Teachers, Tony Award


Similar Musicals

Barnum

High Button Shoes

Jimmy


Return to the complete A-Z musicals list »