Is an American in Paris a Good Musical?

By Michael Ferguson

An American in Paris is a musical that has garnered acclaim since its debut in 2014. However, the question remains – is it a good musical?

Plot and Characters

The musical is set in post-World War II Paris and follows the story of an American soldier named Jerry Mulligan who decides to stay in Paris to pursue his passion for painting. Along the way, he meets a French ballet dancer named Lise Dassin who captures his heart. However, their love story faces obstacles as Lise is already engaged to an older man named Henri Baurel.

The characters are well-developed and their relationships are portrayed beautifully through dance sequences and songs. The audience can feel the emotions of the characters as they go through joy, heartache, and everything in between.

Music and Choreography

The music for An American in Paris was composed by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin. The show incorporates several classic Gershwin tunes such as “I Got Rhythm” and “S’Wonderful” along with original compositions for the show.

The choreography by Christopher Wheeldon is one of the highlights of the show. The dance sequences are breathtakingly beautiful and capture the essence of post-war Paris perfectly. The movements are fluid and graceful, making it a treat to watch.

Scenic Design

The scenic design for An American in Paris is stunning. Bob Crowley’s sets transport the audience to 1940s Paris with its beautiful buildings, cafes, and cobblestone streets. The use of projections adds depth to the sets, making them seem almost three-dimensional.

The Verdict

So, is An American in Paris a good musical? The answer is yes!

It combines beautiful music with breathtaking choreography and stunning set design to create a memorable experience for audiences. The story may be simple, but it is executed flawlessly, leaving the audience with a sense of joy and hope.

If you’re a fan of musicals or just looking for a night of entertainment, An American in Paris is definitely worth watching. It’s no wonder that it won four Tony Awards in 2015, including Best Choreography and Best Scenic Design.