Show Boat (music by Jerome Kern; lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II; book adapted by Mr. Hammerstein from Edna Ferber's novel) is still one of the most satisfying of all musicals. Few shows can boast a more delightful score. Instead of seeming dated after 18 years, Show Boat is merely very nostalgic: it brings back the '203 through the ear and the '903 through the eye.
It isn't as if such tunes as Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man, Bill, Only Make Believe, have ever really waned in popularity—and 01' Man River has become more famous than most folk songs. Back in their original...
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