In the vibrant tapestry of classic American musical theatre, few works shine as brightly or exude as much sophisticated charm as "Gay Divorce." This delightful musical comedy, originally gracing the Broadway stage in 1932, is a quintessential example of its era's wit, elegance, and romantic escapism.
Penned by the legendary Cole Porter, with a book by Dwight Taylor, it quickly captivated audiences with its clever plot, memorable songs, and the incomparable presence of Fred Astaire in his final Broadway stage role before conquering Hollywood. "Gay Divorce" not only launched one of Porter's most enduring and iconic songs but also set the stage for a cinematic adaptation that would forever etch its narrative into popular culture, pairing Astaire with his legendary dance partner, Ginger Rogers.
More than just a period piece, "Gay Divorce" stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of mistaken identities, comedic misunderstandings, and the search for love amidst the most unconventional circumstances.
Its journey from a bustling Broadway premiere to various revivals, international tours, and a beloved film adaptation underscores its enduring relevance and its significant contribution to the musical theatre canon. This comprehensive exploration delves into the musical's intricate plot, its unforgettable score, the memorable characters who bring the story to life, and its rich production history, culminating in a reflection on its lasting legacy in the annals of entertainment.
The genesis of a classic: "Gay Divorce" on Broadway
The early 1930s were a fascinating period for Broadway, marked by a blend of escapism and growing sophistication in musical storytelling.
It was into this landscape that "Gay Divorce" burst forth, premiering at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in New York City on November 29, 1932. Directed by Howard Lindsay, the production was a critical and commercial success, running for an impressive 248 performances. Its genre, musical comedy, perfectly encapsulated the mood of the time, offering lighthearted entertainment that provided a welcome diversion from the economic realities of the great depression.
The show's core appeal lay in its innovative blend of romantic farce and exquisite musical numbers.
Cole Porter, already a celebrated composer-lyricist, was at the peak of his powers, crafting melodies and lyrics that were both witty and deeply romantic. His ability to weave sophisticated rhymes with accessible tunes was unparalleled, making "Gay Divorce" a showcase for his distinctive style.
The production was also significant for featuring Fred Astaire, who, along with his sister Adele, had been a celebrated dancing duo. With Adele having retired, "Gay Divorce" marked Astaire's transition into a solo leading man on stage, an experience that would directly pave his path to Hollywood stardom.
The original Broadway production featured lavish sets and costumes, typical of the era's grand theatrical spectacles.
Critics lauded the show for its clever book, Porter's brilliant score, and the magnetic performances of its cast, particularly Astaire's elegant dancing and understated comedic timing. It wasn't merely a success; it was a cultural event that solidified Porter's reputation as a master and introduced audiences to a new facet of Astaire's immense talent.
A tale of mistaken identities and comedic mishaps: the intricate plot
At its heart, "Gay Divorce" is a delightful comedy of errors, revolving around a series of misunderstandings that lead to unexpected romance.
The plot centers on Guy Holden, a charming American writer and dancer vacationing in England, who becomes infatuated with Mimi Pratt, a beautiful woman he encounters briefly at a seaside resort. Unbeknownst to Guy, Mimi is there to arrange a "gay divorce" - a term for a divorce obtained easily and perhaps scandalously - from her estranged husband.
Mimi's plan involves hiring a professional, and supposedly discreet, corespondent to be caught in a compromising position with her, thus providing grounds for divorce.
Through a convoluted twist of fate, Guy arrives at the hotel precisely when Mimi is expecting her hired corespondent. Due to a mix-up orchestrated by the bumbling lawyer's friend, Teddy Egbert, Mimi mistakenly believes that Guy is the man she has paid to help her end her marriage.
Guy, meanwhile, is completely unaware of his unwitting role in her scheme and is simply trying to pursue his romantic interest in Mimi.
Adding to the chaos is Mimi's eccentric, oft-divorced friend, Hortense, a worldly woman with a cynical view of marriage and a penchant for dramatic pronouncements.
She acts as Mimi's protector and confidante, frequently offering unsolicited, yet often hilarious, advice. The actual hired corespondent is a ridiculously effeminate Italian waiter named Tonetti, whose motto, "your wife is safe with Tonetti - he prefers spaghetti," provides much of the comic relief.
Tonetti's persistent attempts to fulfill his contractual obligation, despite Mimi's confusion and Guy's obliviousness, drive much of the farcical action.
As the story unfolds, Guy and Mimi are continually placed in compromising situations that they both misinterpret.
Guy sees it as a burgeoning romance, while Mimi believes she is executing her divorce plan. The humor arises from the characters' conflicting perceptions and their desperate attempts to navigate the increasingly absurd circumstances. Eventually, through a series of comical near-misses and revealing confessions, the truth comes to light.
The genuine love between Guy and Mimi blossoms, transcending the initial misunderstanding, and leading to a joyful, if unexpected, resolution. The plot, while intricate, is handled with a light touch, ensuring that the focus remains on the witty dialogue, the elegant dance numbers, and the overarching theme of finding love in unexpected places.
Iconic melodies and lyrical brilliance: the musical score of "Gay Divorce"
Cole Porter's score for "Gay Divorce" is widely regarded as one of his finest, showcasing his unparalleled talent for crafting sophisticated lyrics and unforgettable melodies.
The original production featured a collection of songs that ranged from tender ballads to spirited up-tempo numbers, all imbued with Porter's distinctive wit and lyrical dexterity. His ability to blend clever wordplay with genuine emotion elevated the musical comedy genre.
"Night and day": a timeless masterpiece
Undoubtedly, the most famous and enduring song from "Gay Divorce" is "Night and day." This exquisite ballad quickly transcended the show to become one of the most iconic love songs ever written.
Its haunting melody and passionately repetitive lyrics, expressing unwavering devotion, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Performed by Fred Astaire in the original Broadway production, it showcased not only his dancing prowess but also his ability to deliver a song with genuine feeling.
"Night and Day" has since been covered by countless artists across various genres, solidifying its place as a perennial standard in the great American songbook.
Other notable songs from the original score:
While "Night and Day" is the undisputed star, the "Gay Divorce" score boasts several other gems that contribute to the musical's charm and narrative drive.
These songs not only advance the plot but also provide insight into the characters' emotions and the comedic situations they find themselves in.
- "After you, who?": A charming and romantic duet that explores the longing for a specific person.
- "Why marry them?": A cynical yet humorous reflection on the institution of marriage, likely sung by Hortense.
- "Salt air": Evoking the seaside setting where much of the action takes place.
- "I still love the red, white and blue": A patriotic number, perhaps a nod to the American characters abroad.
- "How's your romance?": A playful inquiry into the state of romantic affairs.
- "What will become of our England?": A comedic lament, possibly delivered by a British character or commenting on cultural differences.
- "I've got you on my mind": Another heartfelt ballad, reinforcing the romantic themes.
- "Mister and missus fitch": A song likely introducing or commenting on a specific couple within the story.
The dynamic nature of a musical score
Like many theatrical productions, the score of "Gay Divorce" evolved throughout its various iterations.
Songs were sometimes cut during rehearsals to improve pacing or suit a specific performer, while new numbers might be added for later productions or adaptations. For instance, the song "fate" was added to the London production, demonstrating how a show can be tailored for different audiences.
Similarly, numbers like "the continental" would later be added specifically for the film version, becoming a massive hit in its own right.
This dynamic process of additions and omissions is a common practice in musical theatre, reflecting the collaborative and iterative nature of creation.
It ensures that the score remains fresh and impactful for each specific production, while also providing a fascinating glimpse into the artistic decisions made throughout the show's history.
Characters that charmed audiences: the ensemble of "Gay Divorce"
The success of "Gay Divorce" also rested heavily on its well-defined characters, each contributing uniquely to the musical's comedic and romantic dynamics.
The original Broadway cast, led by luminous talents, brought these roles to life with panache, creating memorable portrayals that audiences adored.
Guy Holden
Portrayed by the incomparable Fred Astaire in the original Broadway production, Guy Holden is the charming American writer and dancer.
He is fundamentally good-natured and earnestly romantic, though somewhat naive to the complex social machinations around him. His pursuit of Mimi is driven by genuine affection, and his unwitting involvement in her divorce plot leads to much of the play's humor.
Astaire's portrayal of Guy was quintessential: elegant, debonair, and showcasing his unparalleled dancing skills.
Mimi Pratt
The object of Guy's affection, Mimi Pratt is a sophisticated woman seeking to end her marriage. She is somewhat exasperated by the process and the societal expectations surrounding divorce in the 1930s.
Her initial seriousness about the divorce plot gradually gives way to a blossoming affection for Guy, leading to her own internal comedic conflict. Claire Luce originated the role of Mimi on Broadway, providing an elegant and capable foil to Astaire's Guy.
Hortense
Mimi's witty and oft-divorced friend, Hortense, provides a significant portion of the show's cynical humor.
With her extensive experience in marital dissolution, she offers Mimi advice, often laced with sardonic observations about love and marriage. Her character acts as a commentator on the social norms of the time, and her presence adds a layer of sophisticated banter.
Luella Gear perfectly captured Hortense's acerbic charm in the original Broadway run.
Tonetti
The "idiot corespondent" hired by Mimi's lawyer, Tonetti is a ridiculously over-the-top character whose sole purpose is to be "caught" with Mimi.
His exaggerated Italian mannerisms and his infamous motto ("your wife is safe with Tonetti - he prefers spaghetti") make him a comedic standout. Tonetti's persistent, yet ultimately unsuccessful, attempts to fulfill his role contribute greatly to the farcical nature of the plot.
Erik Rhodes delivered a memorable performance as Tonetti, setting the standard for the character's comedic persona.
Teddy Egbert
Guy's lawyer friend, Teddy Egbert, is inadvertently responsible for the central misunderstanding.
His bumbling actions and attempts to help Guy only serve to further complicate the plot, making him a catalyst for much of the comedic chaos.
The supporting cast of "Gay Divorce" included a vibrant array of characters who populated the hotel and contributed to the overall atmosphere.
While specific names like Barbara, Mr. Pratt, Robert, Gladys, Doris, Vivian, Joan, Joyce, Ann, Porter, Sonia, Pat, Diana, Claire, Elaine, Edith, Evelyn, Beatrice, Phyllis, and Elizabeth might not have extensive individual storylines, they collectively painted a vivid picture of the social milieu, enhancing the grand scale of the production.
From stage to screen: "The Gay Divorcee" and its lasting impact
The success of "Gay Divorce" on Broadway inevitably led to interest from Hollywood.
In 1934, RKO Pictures adapted the musical for the screen, but with a significant change: the title was altered to "The Gay Divorcee." This modification was made due to the prevailing censorship of the time, which deemed the word "gay" in the context of divorce as potentially salacious, even though its original meaning referred to lightheartedness and joviality.
Despite the title change, the film adaptation would go on to achieve even greater fame than its stage predecessor.
The film version famously reunited Fred Astaire with Ginger Rogers, marking their second on-screen pairing and solidifying their legendary dance partnership.
While the core plot of mistaken identity remained, the screenplay, by George Marion Jr., Dorothy Yost, and Edward Kaufman, made several adjustments to suit the cinematic medium and the growing chemistry between Astaire and Rogers. Crucially, the film introduced new musical numbers, most notably "the continental." This elaborate, Oscar-winning dance number became an instant sensation, demonstrating the unparalleled elegance and synchronicity of Astaire and Rogers's dancing.
"The continental" overshadowed many of Porter's original songs in the film, although "Night and Day" remained a poignant highlight.
Directed by Mark Sandrich, "The Gay Divorcee" was a resounding critical and commercial triumph. It received an academy award for best original song ("the continental") and nominations for best picture, best art direction, best sound recording, and best music (scoring).
The film cemented Astaire and Rogers's status as Hollywood's premier dance team and introduced the charming story of "Gay Divorce" to a global audience, expanding its legacy far beyond the theatrical stage. Erik Rhodes reprised his role as Tonetti from the Broadway production, further enhancing the continuity between the two versions and ensuring that his memorable comedic performance reached an even wider viewership.
A rich production history: revivals, tours, and concert renditions
The journey of "Gay Divorce" did not end with its original Broadway run or its acclaimed film adaptation.
Over the decades, the musical has enjoyed a vibrant production history, demonstrating its enduring appeal and adaptability.
Original Broadway production (1932)
As detailed earlier, the show premiered at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in New York, running for 248 performances.
This was the launchpad for the musical's subsequent fame, cementing its place in Broadway history.
National tour
Following its successful Broadway run, "Gay Divorce" embarked on a national tour, bringing Cole Porter's wit and Astaire's magic to audiences across the United States.
These tours were crucial for expanding the reach of Broadway productions in an era before widespread television.
London production (1933)
The musical crossed the Atlantic to London, premiering in 1933. International productions are a testament to a show's universal appeal, and the London staging further solidified "Gay Divorce's" reputation as a global hit.
This production sometimes saw minor adjustments to suit British tastes, including the addition of new songs.
Film version (1934)
The iconic Hollywood adaptation, "The Gay Divorcee," transformed the stage hit into a cinematic legend, pairing Fred Astaire with Ginger Rogers and introducing "the continental."
Jones Beach Marine Theatre production (1950)
In the mid-20th century, outdoor musical theatre productions gained popularity.
"Gay Divorce" was presented at the Jones Beach Marine Theatre in New York, an expansive venue known for its spectacular summer musicals. These large-scale productions often brought classic shows to new audiences in grander settings.
Off-Broadway revival (1969)
Over three decades after its Broadway premiere, "Gay Divorce" received an off-Broadway revival in New York.
These smaller, more intimate productions often allowed for a reinterpretation of classic works, bringing them to a new generation of theatregoers who might not have experienced the original. It showcased the lasting appeal of Porter's score and the comedic book.
Equity library theatre revival (1983)
The Equity Library Theatre in New York, known for staging revivals of classic works with emerging and established talent, presented "Gay Divorce" in 1983.
Such revivals are vital for keeping the flame of theatrical history alive, allowing actors and audiences to revisit foundational pieces of the American musical canon.
Concert productions (various dates)
Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, "Gay Divorce" has also been presented in various concert formats.
These include:
- New York concert (1990s): A performance in a concert setting, often focusing on the musical score and less on elaborate staging.
- Lost musicals concert, London (1990s): Part of a series dedicated to rediscovering and presenting lesser-known or historically significant musicals.
This concert showcased the original score to a new generation in London.
- Musicals tonight! concert, New York (early 2000s): Another series committed to presenting concert versions of classic musicals, allowing audiences to experience the brilliance of works like "Gay Divorce" in a stripped-down format.
These numerous productions and revivals demonstrate the enduring power of "Gay Divorce." Its charm, wit, and timeless score continue to resonate, proving that a well-crafted musical comedy can entertain and delight audiences for generations, adapting to different formats and performance styles while maintaining its core essence.
The enduring legacy of "Gay Divorce": a timeless musical comedy
"Gay Divorce" holds a significant and cherished place in the history of American musical theatre and popular culture.
Its impact reverberates through several key aspects, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
A milestone for Cole Porter
For Cole Porter, "Gay Divorce" was a triumph that further cemented his reputation as one of the preeminent composer-lyricists of the 20th century.
It gave the world "Night and Day," a song that transcended the musical to become an eternal standard, showcasing his unique blend of sophisticated melody and profound romanticism. The entire score is a masterclass in his witty and elegant style, influencing countless songwriters who followed.
Fred Astaire's pivotal stage role
The musical is also historically significant as Fred Astaire's final appearance on the Broadway stage before embarking on his legendary Hollywood career.
His performance as Guy Holden provided a crucial bridge from his celebrated stage partnership with his sister Adele to his iconic cinematic collaborations with Ginger Rogers. "Gay Divorce" demonstrated his readiness to command the stage as a leading man, not just a dancer, and showcased the charm and sophistication that would define his screen persona.
The birth of a cinematic legend
The film adaptation, "The Gay Divorcee," is arguably where the story found its widest and most enduring fame.
The pairing of Astaire and Rogers became a cultural phenomenon, redefining cinematic dance and romance. The film's success, particularly with the introduction of "the continental," elevated the musical's narrative to iconic status, influencing subsequent romantic comedies and musicals for decades.
It proved that a stage show's essence could be translated and even enhanced through the magic of cinema, reaching an unprecedented global audience.
Enduring themes and universal appeal
At its core, "Gay Divorce" explores universal themes of love, mistaken identity, and the pursuit of happiness.
The humor derived from its farcical plot remains as entertaining today as it was in the 1930s. The musical's ability to blend high society charm with genuine romantic sentiment ensures its continued relevance. It reminds us of the power of laughter, the joy of dance, and the unexpected ways in which true love can blossom, even amidst the most absurd circumstances.
From its groundbreaking Broadway debut to its legendary film version and numerous revivals, "Gay Divorce" stands as a testament to the enduring power of classic musical comedy.
It continues to charm and entertain, securing its rightful place as a beloved piece of theatrical and cinematic history, a true gem in Cole Porter's illustrious catalogue.