It's "Transformation Tunesday" here at BroadwayBox! We're going to explore the exciting transformations your favorite Broadway tunes have morphed into over the years with thanks to innovative Broadway revivals.
Transformation Tune: "Brotherhood of Man" from How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, by Frank Loesser
1961 - Original Broadway Production
The only footage available was of the show’s 1967 film which thankfully preserved the performance of Robert Morse with his effortless boyish charm. Look at that 60’s office and the enthusiasm of the male ensemble (with an assist by Miss Jones, the jazzy soprano superstar). There was an exciting spontaneity about the performance which made the audience root for our Finch.
1995 - Broadway Revival
We will never stop talking about this colorful, polished and incredibly orchestrated revival. Matthew Broderick was a delight as Finch leading the ensemble into this Act 2 Showstopper.
Lillias White deserves her own paragraph for this transformation. Her interpretation of Miss Jones brings this number to a different stratospheric level. She high kicks and riffs to the heavens bringing an amazing new sass to the role.
2011 - Broadway Revival
Accio Song and Dance Man! The most recent revival of How To Succeed... was an incredible showcase for Daniel Radcliffe to show his triple threat talents. He possessed the charm needed for the role with flying colors but he also mastered Rob Ashford’s dazzling athletic choreography. Ellen Harvey as Miss Jones at 3:33 - 3:51 was all of us watching this performance.
On a side note, we love this clip for the intro by Robert Morse and Matthew Broderick bringing the transformation full circle.
