George M! Lyrics – All Songs from the Musical

Overview of George M!.

The musical's basis was made up by John & Francine Pascal. Michael Stewart additionally participated in co-authorship. George Cohan performed as the author of lyrics and the rest musical content along with his daughter, Mary Cohan (she also participated in the act).

The musical opened on Broadway in 1968. Palace Theatre decided to make it after 8 previews, and it succeeded with 427 performances. The producer was an American, Emanuel Azenberg. Choreography and direction were staged by the Broadway veteran Joe Layton. The main part was acted by magnificent Joel Grey. This role's performance was awarded by Tony prize. Jerry Dodge and Betty Ann Grove starred as Cohan’s parents, who always inspired and supported him.

In 1970, the television adaptation was made by the NBC network. That was a staged show where the actors were speaking about George’s life and show business as well as rehearsing, singing, and dancing.

The 1968 Broadway musical celebrates fiery showman George M. Cohan and his flag-waving tunes. It blends vaudeville energy with book-musical structure, tracing Cohan’s rise from touring family act to “the man who owned Broadway.”

Musical Roots.

Cohan’s own melodies drive the score. “Give My Regards to Broadway,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag” anchor the show, sparking instant nostalgia.

Stage History.

• Opened at the Palace Theatre, April 10 1968, running 433 performances.
• National tour followed, then an NBC television adaptation aired September 12 1970.
• Joel Grey revisited the role during City Center’s 2018 concert “Hey, Look Me Over!”, sharing the stage with Clyde Alves.
• Regional troupes keep the title alive; notable was Goodspeed’s 2012 revival and Westchester’s, starring John Scherer.
• Winter Park Playhouse mounted George M. Cohan Tonight! in May 2024, stoking fresh Florida buzz.

Recent Developments.

Patriotic revues surged before America’s 250th birthday. Community theatres now favor George M! for July productions, pairing it with fireworks and civic parades. New orchestrations, reduced to nine players, premiered in 2023 and travel easily on digital pads.

Licensing and Materials.

Concord Theatricals handles rights under its Tams-Witmark banner. A script-plus-score bundle downloads instantly, and streaming licenses became available in late 2024 for hybrid casts.

Critical Reception.

Initial reviews split. Clive Barnes praised Grey’s “whiplash” dance attack, yet William Goldman called the book “scrappy.” Modern critics embrace the score’s “propulsive tap rhythm” and its history-lesson charm.

Score Highlights.

• “Musical Comedy Man.” Opens Act I with brass and banjo flair.
• “My Town.” A tender hymn to small-city pride.
• “Forty-Five Minutes from Broadway.” Ragtime swing ignites Act II.
• “Over There.” March tempo underscores wartime tensions.

Why It Matters Today.

This musical reminds audiences that Broadway once marched to a snare drum and twirled a flag. Its brisk scenes teach showbiz grit, while its melodies still rally school bands every Fourth of July.

Questions and Answers.

Is George M! suitable for small casts?

Yes. Concord’s latest orchestration supports nine musicians and a lean ensemble.

Which song receives the loudest ovation?

“Yankee Doodle Dandy.” Audiences clap in rhythm before the final chorus.

Can amateur groups stream performances now?

Since 2024, digital streaming rights are offered with standard contracts.

Did Joel Grey win awards for the role?

He earned an Outer Critics Circle win and a Tony nomination in 1969.

Why revive the show today?

Its patriotic spirit fits 250th-anniversary events and showcases tap talent.