Rodgers & Hart’s Broadway hit, a combination of musical comedy, jazz and ballet, introduced several of their most popular tunes, including “There’s A Small Hotel” and “Glad to Be Unhappy.” Directed by the legendary George Abbott and choreographed by newcomer George Balanchine, this landmark musical featured two extensive ballet sequences, marking an early example of musical comedy incorporating dance as a direct proponent of the plot.

The original Broadway production opened on April 11, 1936, starring Ray Bolger, Tamara Geva and Monty Woolley. The show returned to Broadway twice, in 1954 and 1983. The first revival, directed by George Abbott and again choreographed by Balanchine, opened on October 11, 1954 at the 46th Street Theatre and featured Vera Zorina, Bobby Van and Elaine Stritch. The second Broadway revival, directed by 95-year-old Abbott, ran for 505 performances and won the Tony Award for Best Revival.