The following contains some basic information about the musical Follies, which is featured in this class. You don’t need to be familiar with the show to follow along, as Idina and her collaborators will explain more about the story and characters along the way. But, if you’d like to take a deeper dive or are inspired to learn more, check out the information below!
In anticipation of the destruction of the old Weismann Theatre, former cast members of Weismann’s “Follies” gather there for a reunion being held to celebrate past performances of the show. The plot focuses primarily on two former showgirls, Sally and Phyllis, and their relationships with their husbands Buddy and Ben (respectively). Both couples are unhappily married and, as the musical unfolds, the audience learns how each of their pasts have shaped their current regrets and disillusionment. **
Music & Lyrics: Stephen Sondheim
Book: James Goldman
Original Broadway Production: 1971
Selected Awards: 1971 New York Drama Critics’ Award for Best Musical, 1972 Tony Award for Best Score
Idina is working on the song “In Buddy’s Eyes.” You can listen to a few different versions below:
If you’d like to learn more about Follies, we recommend the following resources: