1925 West End

JimRose-Marie

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1925 West End

Book and lyrics by Otto Harbach and Oscar Hammerstein II | Music by Rudolf Friml and Herbert Stothart

Opening at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane on March 20, 1925, the London production of Rose-Marie ran for an astonishing 851 performances. Directed by Felix Edwardes and choreographed by J. Kathryn Scott, the musical featured Edith Day, Derek Oldham and Brian Gilmour. London critics were less effusive than their American counterparts, but reviews were positive nonetheless. The London Times said, “The music is distinctly above the average,” and The Era called it “A very good entertainment; a carefully contrived compromise between a melodrama and a musical comedy, and a splendid vehicle for a number of bright spectacular effects and some fine ensembles.” James Agate of the Sunday Times, noted the overwhelming audience response, writing, “The applause was cataclysmic and, in my view, the piece will run one hundred and eleven years and fifteen days.”

LISTEN

Though no official cast recording was released in 1925, the London cast of Rose-Marie did record six numbers and one orchestral medley. Edith Day, Derek Oldham and Brian Gilmour sang the principal roles. Originally released as singles, the monophonic tracks were later compiled in various collections, including the 1976 LP Rudolf Friml in London.