Past Productions Archives - Page 4 of 11 - The Burton Musical Theatre Company

Fiddler on the Roof: February 2004

Music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and book by Joseph Stein.

“Fiddler on the Roof” is a beloved musical that tells the story of Tevye, a poor Jewish milkman living in the village of Anatevka in Tsarist Russia. As Tevye struggles to maintain the traditions of his faith and culture in a changing world, he faces challenges both within his own family and from the larger society around him. With his daughters pushing against the traditional arranged marriages that he has always known, Tevye must find a way to balance his love for his family with his respect for the customs of his community.

With iconic songs such as “Tradition,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” and “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Fiddler on the Roof” has become a timeless classic of musical theatre. The show explores themes of family, faith, and community, as well as the struggles of immigrant families adapting to a new world. The endearing characters and stirring score have captivated audiences around the world for decades, making “Fiddler on the Roof” one of the most enduring and beloved musicals of all time.

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Crazy for You: October 2003

Music and lyrics by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, and book by Ken Ludwig.

“Crazy for You” is a lighthearted romantic comedy that tells the story of Bobby Child, a New York banker who dreams of becoming a Broadway performer. When he is sent to the small town of Deadrock, Nevada to foreclose on a theater, he falls in love with the theater owner’s daughter, Polly, and decides to save the theater instead. Along the way, he poses as theater impresario Bela Zangler, attempts to win Polly’s heart, and navigates the challenges of a small town filled with colorful characters.

With classic Gershwin songs such as “I Got Rhythm” and “Embraceable You,” “Crazy for You” is a joyful celebration of music, dance, and romance. The show features energetic dance numbers, hilarious comedy, and a heartwarming love story that will leave audiences tapping their toes and humming along.

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Funny Girl: October 2002

Music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Bob Merrill, and book by Isobel Lennart.

“Funny Girl” is a classic musical that tells the story of Fanny Brice, a young Jewish woman from Brooklyn who dreams of becoming a star. Despite her unconventional looks, Fanny’s talent and charisma propel her to success on the vaudeville stage, where she becomes a beloved performer. Along the way, she falls in love with the dashing and charismatic gambler, Nick Arnstein. As Fanny’s star continues to rise, she must navigate the challenges of fame, fortune, and the ups and downs of her personal life.

With iconic songs such as “People” and “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “Funny Girl” is a timeless classic that showcases the incredible talents of its star. The show explores themes of love, ambition, and the price of success, as Fanny learns that achieving her dreams may come at a cost. With a dazzling score, sparkling dialogue, and unforgettable characters, “Funny Girl” is a beloved favorite of musical theater fans around the world.

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HMS Pinafore & Trial by Jury: February 2002

Written by W.S. Gilbert . Music by Arthur Sullivan

H.M.S Pinafore, or The Lass That Loved a Sailor, is a comic opera in two acts with music by Arthur Sullivan and libretto by W. S. Gilbert. The story takes place aboard the Royal Navy ship HMS Pinafore. The captain’s daughter, Josephine, is in love with a lower-class sailor, Ralph Rackstraw, although her father intends her to marry Sir Joseph Porter, the First Lord of the Admiralty. She abides by her father’s wishes at first, but Sir Joseph’s advocacy of the equality of humankind encourages Ralph and Josephine to overturn conventional social order. They declare their love for each other and eventually plan to elope. The Captain discovers this plan, but, as in many of the Gilbert and Sullivan operas, a surprise disclosure changes things dramatically near the end of the story

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Kiss Me Kate: October 2001

Music and lyrics by Cole Porter, book by Samuel and Bella Spewack.

“Kiss Me, Kate” is a classic musical comedy that tells the story of a touring theater company putting on a production of William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” The show follows the tangled romantic relationships between the actors both on and offstage, as egos clash and passions ignite. With a jazzy score that includes iconic songs such as “Too Darn Hot” and “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” “Kiss Me, Kate” is a playful and energetic romp through the world of show business. Featuring witty dialogue, catchy tunes, and colorful characters, this beloved musical remains a favorite of audiences around the world.

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Oliver: October 2000

Music, lyrics and book by Lionel Bart.

“Oliver!” is a beloved musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel “Oliver Twist.” The show follows the story of the orphan boy Oliver as he navigates the harsh and often dangerous world of 19th century London. After running away from a workhouse, Oliver finds himself taken in by a group of young pickpockets led by the charismatic Fagin, and becomes embroiled in a web of theft, deceit and betrayal. With a score that features iconic songs such as “Consider Yourself” and “As Long as He Needs Me,” “Oliver!” is a timeless classic that uses music and dance to explore themes of poverty, social injustice and the resilience of the human spirit. Through its memorable characters and unforgettable tunes, “Oliver!” continues to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages.

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Chess – October 1999

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Music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, Lyrics by Tim Rice

In the heart of the Cold War, “Chess” unfolds as a gripping tale of love, rivalry, and political intrigue set against the backdrop of international chess competitions. The musical delves into the intense world of Freddie Trumper, the brash American chess champion, and Anatoly Sergievsky, the enigmatic Russian grandmaster, whose personal and political differences are played out on the global stage.

As the chess matches become a metaphor for the Cold War power struggle, Florence Vassy, a Hungarian refugee, finds herself torn between these two compelling figures. The political machinations intensify as the chessboard becomes a battlefield, mirroring the tension between East and West.

With a rich and varied score that includes standout songs like “One Night in Bangkok” and “I Know Him So Well,” “Chess” explores themes of love, betrayal, and the high-stakes game of global politics. The musical transcends the chessboard, delving into the complex moves and counter-moves of the characters’ lives.

Join Freddie, Anatoly, and Florence in this emotionally charged musical that takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of passion and power. “Chess” is a riveting story of strategy, sacrifice, and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit in the face of geopolitical adversity.

Directed by Nigel Taylor
Musical Director David Blackwell

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The Pirates of Penzance: February 1999

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Music by Arthur Sullivan, Libretto by W.S. Gilbert

Ahoy, mateys! Set sail with “The Pirates of Penzance,” a comedic operetta filled with swashbuckling adventures and hilarious misunderstandings. Follow young Frederic, a pirate apprentice, as he navigates his way through love, duty, and the antics of his pirate crew, all while trying to escape his piratical obligations. With catchy tunes, witty dialogue, and unforgettable characters, “The Pirates of Penzance” is a timeless tale of love and laughter that’s sure to entertain audiences of all ages.

Produced by Peter Barlow
Musical Director – Bryan Clarke

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Me and My Girl: October 1998

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Music by Noel Gay and book and lyrics by L. Arthur Rose and Douglas Furber.

“Me and My Girl” is a lighthearted musical comedy about a working-class Cockney gentleman, Bill Snibson, who discovers that he is the long-lost heir to the Earl of Hareford. As he is introduced into high society, Bill must navigate the challenges of his newfound wealth and status, all while trying to win the heart of his true love, Sally Smith. With a score that features memorable songs such as “The Lambeth Walk” and “Leaning on a Lamp-post,” “Me and My Girl” is a charming and upbeat musical that combines humor, romance, and social commentary in a joyful and entertaining romp.

Produced by Nigel Taylor
Musical Director – Peter Vernon

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Viva Mexico: February 1998

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Music adapted by Ronald Hanmer, book by Phil Park and Bernard Dunn, lyrics by Phil Park

A great favourite with amateur societies, this tongue-in-cheek romantic comedy melodrama involves bandits, American tourists and revolutionaries – and features a highly colourful Aztec ceremonial. The score is a feast of world-famous melodies and dances including “A Media Luz”, “El Rancho Grande”, “La Cucaracha” and “The Mexican Hat Dance”.

Produced by Nigel Taylor
Musical Director – Ian Stephenson

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