Watch How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

Background of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is a musical comedy that first premiered on Broadway in 1961. The book for the musical was written by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock, and Willie Gilbert, while the music and lyrics were composed by Frank Loesser. The story is based on the 1952 satirical novel of the same name by Shepherd Mead.

Set in the 1960s, the musical follows the ambitious and charismatic J. Pierrepont Finch, a window washer who aims to climb the corporate ladder of the World Wide Wicket Company. With the help of a self-help book titled “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” Finch manipulates his way up the company hierarchy, encountering various colorful characters and humorous situations along the way.

This light-hearted musical comedy cleverly satirizes the corporate world, with its witty dialogue, catchy songs, and exaggerated characters. It humorously captures the cutthroat nature, office politics, and the desire for success that can sometimes overshadow morality and ethics in the business world.

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying resonated strongly with audiences, tapping into the universal desire for achievement and success. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1962, as well as seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

The satirical nature of the show allowed it to remain relevant and appealing throughout the years. Despite being set in the 1960s, many of the themes and issues it addresses are still prevalent in today’s society. This timeless quality has contributed to the continued popularity of the musical and has led to numerous revivals and adaptations.

With its blend of humor, catchy songs, and sharp social commentary, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying continues to entertain audiences and provide a lighthearted look at the pursuit of success in the corporate world.

Main Characters in How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying features a variety of memorable characters who bring the story to life with their unique personalities and aspirations. Here are some of the main characters:

J. Pierrepont Finch: The charming and ambitious protagonist who starts as a window washer and uses a self-help book to climb the corporate ladder at the World Wide Wicket Company. He is determined, resourceful, and willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.
Rosemary Pilkington: A secretary at the company who falls in love with Finch. She is sweet, kind-hearted, and dreams of finding a loving and successful partner. Rosemary provides a refreshing contrast to the cutthroat nature of the corporate world.
J.B. Biggley: The president of the World Wide Wicket Company. Biggley is a powerful and seemingly tough executive, but he occasionally reveals a more vulnerable side. He becomes both a mentor and a hurdle for Finch as he navigates his way up the corporate ladder.
Smitty: Rosemary’s sassy and confident office friend. She provides comedic relief and offers advice and support to Rosemary throughout the show. Smitty is sharp-witted and doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind.
Bud Frump: Biggley’s nepotistic, lazy, and conniving nephew who is jealous of Finch’s rapid rise within the company. Bud does everything he can to sabotage Finch’s success and maintain his own position.
Hedy La Rue: Biggley’s stereotypical “dumb blonde” mistress. Hedy is known more for her looks than her intelligence, and her presence complicates the relationships and dynamics in the office.

Each character in How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying adds depth and humor to the story, reflecting different aspects of the business world and the pursuit of success. Their interactions and conflicts create a captivating narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

Plot Overview of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is a comedic musical that revolves around the ambitious J. Pierrepont Finch and his journey to success in the cutthroat corporate world of the World Wide Wicket Company.

The story begins with Finch as a lowly window washer who happens to stumble upon a book titled “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” Motivated by the book’s promises of success, Finch sets his sights on climbing the corporate ladder and quickly rises through the ranks at the company.

Finch’s climb to success is not without its obstacles and humorous encounters. He cleverly manipulates situations to his advantage, impressing his superiors and winning the admiration of his colleagues. Along the way, he charms Rosemary Pilkington, a secretary at the company, and they develop a budding romance.

However, Finch faces opposition in the form of Bud Frump, Biggley’s nepotistic nephew, who becomes jealous of Finch’s meteoric rise. Bud tries to expose Finch’s methods and sabotage his success, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.

As Finch continues to thrive in the corporate world, he becomes embroiled in a love triangle when Biggley’s mistresses, Hedy La Rue, sets her sights on him. This further complicates his journey and adds to the comedic chaos.

In the climax of the show, Finch’s schemes are exposed, causing chaos within the company. However, through a stroke of luck and his quick thinking, Finch manages to save the day and ultimately earn a promotion to the position of Chairman of the Board.

The musical ends on a triumphant note with Finch realizing the importance of true love and genuine connections, choosing to embrace the meaningful relationships in his life rather than just pursuing empty success.

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is a hilarious and satirical portrayal of the corporate world, showcasing the pitfalls and absurdities of climbing the ladder to success. Through catchy songs, witty dialogue, and comedic scenarios, the plot offers a delightful and entertaining look at the pursuit of success and the importance of personal values along the way.

Themes in How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying explores several themes that resonate with audiences, providing social commentary on the nature of success and the corporate world. These themes include:

Ambition and Manipulation: The musical highlights the power of ambition and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve success. Finch manipulates situations and people, showcasing how ambition can lead to both ethical and unethical actions in the pursuit of one’s goals.
The Cutthroat Nature of Corporate Culture: The show portrays the corporate world as a competitive and cutthroat environment where individuals are willing to step on each other to climb higher. Office politics, nepotism, and a focus on personal gain at the expense of others are presented as common features of this world.
The Illusion of Success: How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying challenges the notion of success by questioning what it truly means. The musical suggests that success can be both superficial and empty if it’s achieved at the expense of personal values and genuine relationships.
Gender Stereotypes: The musical satirizes gender roles and stereotypes prevalent in the 1960s corporate world. Hedy La Rue, as the archetypal “dumb blonde,” exemplifies the objectification and dismissal of women based on their physical appearance.
Love versus Ambition: The conflict between love and ambition is a recurring theme in the show. Finch’s pursuit of success puts a strain on his budding romance with Rosemary, forcing him to question the importance of genuine connections and personal happiness in the face of professional achievements.
The Power of Self-Help Culture: The self-help book, “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” serves as both a catalyst for Finch’s success and a commentary on the popularity of self-help culture. The show humorously depicts the influence of self-help literature and its potential to provide shortcuts to success.

By exploring these themes, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying provides a satirical and thought-provoking commentary on society’s fascination with success, the sacrifices made to achieve it, and the importance of personal values and meaningful relationships in a world focused on ambition and corporate ladder climbing.

The Legacy of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has left a lasting impact on the world of musical theater and continues to be celebrated for its timeless humor and social commentary. Here are the key aspects of its legacy:

Recognition and Awards: The musical received widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1962. It also won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, showcasing its significance and impact within the theatrical community.
Longevity and Revivals: How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying enjoyed a successful original Broadway run, spanning over 1,400 performances. Since then, it has been revived multiple times on Broadway and the West End, demonstrating its enduring popularity and continued relevance.
Popularity in Community and School Theaters: The accessibility and humor of the show have made it a favorite among community theaters and school productions. Its vibrant characters, catchy songs, and relatable themes resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Impact on Satirical Musicals: How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying helped pave the way for future satirical musicals that explore similar themes and employ sharp wit to critique societal structures. Its success inspired other shows to incorporate social commentary into their storytelling.
Recognition of Frank Loesser’s Music and Lyrics: The musical’s score, composed by Frank Loesser, is revered for its lively and memorable songs. Classics like “I Believe in You” and “Brotherhood of Man” have become iconic musical theater standards, showcasing Loesser’s talent for crafting catchy and meaningful tunes.
Effect on Business Culture: How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has become a cultural touchstone for its satirical portrayal of the corporate world. Its portrayal of office politics and the pursuit of success resonates with audiences, prompting discussions about the impact of ambition and the nature of corporate culture.

The legacy of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is rooted in its enduring popularity, critical acclaim, and influence on both theatrical and societal levels. From its initial successes to its ongoing presence in community theaters and school productions, the show continues to entertain audiences and spark conversations about success, ambition, and the often humorous absurdities of the corporate world.

The Original Broadway Production of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying made its original Broadway debut on October 14, 1961, at the 46th Street Theatre (now the Richard Rodgers Theatre). The production was directed by Abe Burrows, with Bob Fosse serving as both choreographer and co-director. It quickly became a hit, captivating audiences with its sharp satire and catchy tunes.

The original Broadway cast featured Robert Morse in the role of J. Pierrepont Finch, marking his breakout performance and earning him a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. Equally notable was the performance of Rudy Vallee as J.B. Biggley, the company president, and Bonnie Scott as Rosemary Pilkington.

One of the highlights of the original production was the energetic and inventive choreography by Bob Fosse, which brought a dynamic flair to the musical numbers. Fosse’s unique style and innovative staging added an extra layer of visual excitement to the show.

The original Broadway production of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying was met with critical acclaim and received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1962. The musical also won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Director, and Best Featured Actor for Charles Nelson Reilly, who played Bud Frump.

It is worth noting that Robert Morse reprised his role as J. Pierrepont Finch in the 1967 film adaptation of the musical, further solidifying his connection to the character.

The success of the original Broadway production of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying launched the musical into the spotlight and established it as a beloved and enduring piece of theater. Its witty dialogue, memorable songs, and clever satire continue to captivate audiences in revivals and productions around the world.

Revivals and Adaptations of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

Since its original Broadway production, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has seen numerous revivals and adaptations that have kept the show alive and introduced it to new audiences. Here are some notable revivals and adaptations:

1995 Broadway Revival: In 1995, a highly successful Broadway revival of the musical was staged at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, directed by Des McAnuff. Matthew Broderick took on the role of J. Pierrepont Finch and won a Tony Award for his performance. The revival featured an updated and slightly revised book, keeping the show fresh and relevant.
2011 Broadway Revival: Another successful revival took place in 2011, once again at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, with Rob Ashford directing and choreographing. This production starred Daniel Radcliffe as Finch, marking his debut in a Broadway musical. The revival received positive reviews and earned several Tony nominations, including Best Revival of a Musical.
International Productions: How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has enjoyed international success with productions mounted in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Germany. These productions have adapted the show to fit the local culture and have showcased the musical’s universal appeal.
Concert and Television Adaptations: The musical has also been adapted for concert performances and television broadcasts. Notably, a star-studded concert production was performed at the Royal Festival Hall in London in 2015, featuring the talents of Daniel Radcliffe, Catherine Tate, and other renowned actors.
Community and School Performances: How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying continues to be a popular choice for community theaters and school productions around the world. Its relatable characters, catchy songs, and humorous storyline make it an ideal choice for performers of all ages and skill levels.

These revivals and adaptations have showcased the enduring popularity of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying. The musical’s timeless humor, captivating characters, and catchy songs have allowed it to transcend time and geographical boundaries, ensuring its continued success and enjoyment by audiences of all backgrounds.

The Music and Songs of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

The music and songs of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying, composed by Frank Loesser, are an integral part of the musical’s success and have become cherished classics in the musical theater repertoire. The score is filled with catchy tunes and clever lyrics that enhance the storytelling and bring the characters to life.

One of the show’s most well-known songs is “I Believe in You,” which showcases J. Pierrepont Finch’s determination and self-assurance as he sings about his belief in his own abilities. The song is upbeat and empowering, reflecting Finch’s unwavering ambition.

Another standout song is “Brotherhood of Man,” an exuberant and rousing ensemble number that closes the show. The song celebrates the idea of unity and encourages the characters to set aside their individual differences and work together for the greater good.

Other memorable songs include “The Company Way,” which humorously depicts the bureaucratic nature of the company hierarchy, and “Been a Long Day,” a charming duet between Finch and Rosemary that captures their growing affection for each other.

Frank Loesser’s music and lyrics expertly capture the energetic and comedic essence of the show. The songs are character-driven and move the plot forward, while also providing entertaining and memorable moments for the audience.

Throughout the musical, Loesser skillfully blends various musical styles, including jazz, ballads, and show tunes. This diversity adds depth and variety to the score, heightening the emotional impact of the story and underscoring the humor and satire.

The music of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has transcended the stage and become popular in its own right. The songs have been recorded by numerous artists and are frequently performed in concert settings and cabaret shows, serving as a testament to their timeless and enduring appeal.

In addition to the original Broadway soundtrack, cast recordings of the various revivals and international productions have further immortalized the music of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying, allowing audiences to enjoy the catchy tunes and clever lyrics long after the curtain falls.

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying: Film Adaptation

In 1967, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying received a film adaptation, bringing the musical’s hilarious and satirical story to the silver screen. The film was directed by David Swift and featured an all-star cast, including Robert Morse reprising his Tony-winning role as J. Pierrepont Finch.

The film adaptation stayed faithful to the spirit of the stage musical while making some adjustments to suit the medium of film. The story followed Finch’s journey as he maneuvered his way up the corporate ladder at the World Wide Wicket Company, employing his cunning tactics to achieve success.

Alongside Robert Morse, the film featured talented actors such as Michele Lee as Rosemary Pilkington, Rudy Vallee as J.B. Biggley, and Anthony ‘Tony’ Roberts as Bud Frump. The cast’s performances captured the humor and charisma of their stage counterparts, bringing the characters to life with their talent and comedic timing.

The film adaptation of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying showcased the vibrant and colorful world of the corporate office, with stylish sets, energetic dance numbers, and catchy musical sequences. The movie successfully brought the satirical elements of the musical to the cinematic format, allowing a wider audience to experience the story’s comedic charm.

The film adaptation maintains the witty dialogue and clever lyrics that made the stage version such a hit, while also taking advantage of the visual storytelling opportunities that the medium of film offers. The comedic timing and physical gags were expertly captured on camera, enhancing the humor of the story.

The film adaptation of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying further solidified the musical’s place in popular culture and introduced it to a wider audience beyond the theater. While it may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as the stage production, the film adaptation remains a beloved and entertaining rendition of the story, preserving the show’s timeless humor and catchy songs.

Whether experienced on stage or on screen, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying continues to captivate audiences with its clever satire, memorable characters, and catchy tunes, cementing its status as a classic musical comedy.

Critic Reviews of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has received widespread critical acclaim since its original Broadway production in 1961. Here are some excerpts from reviews by renowned critics:

“A devilishly delicious musical comedy that skillfully satirizes the corporate world. With its smart and funny book, catchy songs, and a tour de force performance by Robert Morse, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is a triumph that keeps audiences laughing and tapping their feet.” – The New York Times

“A theatrical masterpiece that digs deep into the absurdities and ruthlessness of office politics. The sharp humor, coupled with Frank Loesser’s tuneful score, makes this musical an unforgettable experience that leaves audiences wanting more.” – Variety

“How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is a comedic gem that brilliantly exposes the dynamics of corporate culture with wit and charm. The performances are outstanding, and the show’s satirical commentary on ambition, manipulation, and love versus success is as relevant today as ever.” – The Guardian

“A rare blend of hilarity and social commentary, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is a musical that will leave you entertained and thinking. The catchy songs, clever dialogue, and impressive choreography make this show a must-see for theater enthusiasts and anyone seeking a night of pure enjoyment.” – BroadwayWorld

“With its clever lyrics and memorable tunes, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying strikes a perfect balance between comedy and cynicism. It’s a standout musical that not only entertains but also offers a biting critique on the pursuit of success and the sacrifices made in the process.” – The Hollywood Reporter

These reviews highlight the success and acclaim that How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has garnered over the years. The musical’s ability to blend humor, social commentary, memorable songs, and captivating performances has made it a favorite among critics and audiences alike.

As these reviews show, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying continues to impress with its sharp writing, engaging characters, and timeless themes. Its ongoing popularity and critical acclaim are a testament to the enduring appeal and lasting impact of this beloved musical comedy.

Behind the Scenes of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

Behind the scenes of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying lies a fascinating journey of creativity, talent, and collaboration that contributes to the show’s success. Here are some intriguing aspects of the production:

Creative Team: The musical brought together a talented creative team that included writers Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock, and Willie Gilbert, as well as composer and lyricist Frank Loesser. Their collective vision and genius resulted in a show that flawlessly blends sharp satire, catchy tunes, and witty dialogue.

Choreography: The choreography of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying is an essential component of the show’s energetic and entertaining nature. Bob Fosse’s choreography for the original production was known for its unique style, incorporating precise movements and visually stunning dance sequences that have become synonymous with the musical.

Set Design: The set design plays a crucial role in capturing the corporate world atmosphere of the show. From the bustling offices and boardrooms to the iconic window-washing opening scene, the sets provide the backdrop for the characters and their ambitious pursuits.

Costume Design: The costumes in How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying reflect the fashion trends of the 1960s corporate world. They showcase the distinct styles and personalities of the characters, helping to immerse the audience in the time period and enhancing the visual storytelling.

Rehearsals and Collaboration: Countless hours of rehearsals and collaborative efforts go into bringing the show to life. Cast and crew work together to refine performances, perfect dance numbers, and fine-tune comedic timing, ensuring that the production meets the high standards set by the creative team.

Technical Elements: Behind the scenes, lighting and sound designers work diligently to enhance the show’s visual and auditory experience. Lighting creates moods and transitions, while sound amplifies the performers’ voices and underscores the musical numbers.

The Ensemble: The ensemble, comprised of talented actors, singers, and dancers, is an integral part of the production. Their collective performances add depth and energy to the show, creating the bustling atmosphere of the corporate environment and supporting the leads in their character arcs.

These behind-the-scenes elements contribute to the overall magic of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying. The creative team, cast, and crew come together to craft a production that entertains audiences with its humor, memorable music, and insightful commentary on ambition, success, and the corporate world.

Fun Facts and Trivia about How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying

How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying has its fair share of interesting tidbits and trivia. Here are some fun facts about the show:

The musical is based on Shepherd Mead’s 1952 satirical book of the same name. The book, inspired by Mead’s own experiences working in advertising, offers a humorous take on climbing the corporate ladder.
Robert Morse, who originated the role of J. Pierrepont Finch on Broadway, went on to reprise the character in the 1967 film adaptation. This made Morse one of the few actors to portray their stage role in both the original stage production and the film.
The song “Brotherhood of Man” became a hit single in the United Kingdom when recorded by British pop group The New Seekers in 1970. The song’s catchy melody and inspirational lyrics resonated with listeners, contributing to its popularity outside of the musical itself.
The title of the musical went through several revisions during its development. It was initially known as “Business Day” and “Big Business,” among other titles, before settling on the now-familiar “How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.”
Frank Loesser, the composer and lyricist of the show, was initially hesitant to write a musical based on Mead’s book. However, after reading the book, he found it to be a perfect source of inspiration for a satirical musical comedy.
How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying holds the distinction of being one of the few musicals to win both the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Musical. This recognition solidifies its status as a theatrical classic.
The musical has had its fair share of notable actors taking on the role of J. Pierrepont Finch over the years. In addition to Robert Morse and Daniel Radcliffe, other performers who have portrayed Finch include Matthew Broderick, Darren Criss, and Nick Jonas.
During the curtain call of the 1995 Broadway revival, Matthew Broderick ended the show by leading the cast in a mock protest, complete with picket signs. This light-hearted nod to the character’s ambitious nature and the satirical nature of the show delighted audiences and became a memorable moment in the production.

These fun facts and trivia offer a glimpse into the history, impact, and uniqueness of How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying. They showcase the show’s lasting legacy and the joy it continues to bring to theater lovers around the world.