Emerson Colonial Theatre Official Blog

Candide

Posted November 14, 2023

On this day in 1956, CANDIDE began its pre-Broadway try-out at the Colonial.

Featuring music by the legendary composer Leonard Bernstein (who was working on West Side Story simultaneously), a book by Lillian Hellman, and lyrics written by Richard Wilbur with John Latouche and Dorothy Parker.

The operetta was based on the classic novella written in 1758 by the French writer Voltaire. It starred Max Adrian as Dr. Pangloss, Robert Rounseville as Candide, and Barbara Cook as Cunegonde (who performed the iconic aria "Glitter and Be Gay" that has become a favorite showpiece for many sopranos).

Candide went on to Broadway earning five Tony Award nominations, including a nomination for Best Musical. Since then, the show has evolved into a widely produced opera making gardens grow around the world.

Photo 1: Candide 1956 Colonial promotional flyer.
Photo 2: Production photo of Robert Rounseville and Barbara Cook.
Photo 3: Production photo of the Candide ensemble.
Photo 4: Production photo of Robert Rounseville, Max Adrian, and the ensemble.

📸: Friedman-Abeles via New York Public Library