Ah, the thrill of a perfectly placed Broadway crossword clue! There are those titles that, even if you haven’t seen the show, just
feel
right in the grid. And then there are the ones that make you pause, a memory tugging at the edges of your mind, especially when that specific crossword clue points to a legendary composer like Marvin Hamlisch.
Hamlisch, of course, is a name synonymous with musical theatre brilliance, from the groundbreaking
A Chorus Line
to his Oscar-winning film scores. His ability to craft memorable melodies and sophisticated harmonies was unparalleled. So, when a crossword clue leads you to one of his incredibly charming, yet sometimes overlooked, Broadway works, it’s always a treat for the discerning solver.
The musical often referenced by
this
particular crossword clue debuted on Broadway in 1979. It’s a delightful romantic comedy with a book by the master of comedic dialogue, Neil Simon, and lyrics by the incredibly talented Carole Bayer Sager. Imagine, a dream team like that collaborating on a single project! This combination alone makes it a formidable contender for any musical-themed crossword clue. Simon’s sharp wit, combined with Sager’s insightful lyrics, created a script that felt both fresh and timeless, capturing the nuances of modern relationships with an expert hand.
The original production featured Robert Klein and Lucie Arnaz, bringing a unique blend of wit and vulnerability to their roles. Their chemistry was a significant factor in the show’s success, capturing the hearts of audiences who saw themselves reflected in the show’s honest portrayal of a burgeoning relationship. If you’re stuck on a crossword clue involving this era of Broadway, thinking about the original stars can often be the trick that unlocks the grid. Klein and Arnaz were not just performers; they embodied the spirit of the show, making it relatable and endearing to everyone who saw it.
It ran for over 1,000 performances, a testament to its enduring appeal and tuneful score. The story centers on a composer and a lyricist navigating the complexities of their professional and personal lives, a theme that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever tried to balance work and romance in the demanding creative world. The show masterfully blends humor with genuine emotional depth, making its characters feel incredibly real and their struggles relatable. Its catchy tunes and relatable characters ensure it remains a beloved piece of musical theatre history, and thus, a frequent answer for a challenging Broadway crossword clue.
This particular Hamlisch classic showcases his incredible versatility beyond the grand scale of
A Chorus Line
. It’s a more intimate, character-driven piece, yet still imbued with his signature melodic flair. It proves that a great score doesn’t always need an ensemble of twenty; sometimes, two talented leads and a piano are enough to create magic. The show’s enduring popularity, even decades after its debut, speaks volumes about its quality and the brilliance of its creators.
For anyone wrestling with this specific crossword clue, understanding its context — the immense talent behind it, its unique blend of humor and heart, and its significant place in the Hamlisch canon — can unlock the solution. It’s more than just a phrase in a puzzle; it’s a snapshot of a particular time in Broadway history, crafted by some of its most iconic figures. The next time you see a musical theatre crossword clue, remember the journey behind the answer, and the joy of uncovering another piece of Broadway’s rich tapestry.
Available Answers:
THEY’RE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0714-25 NY Times Crossword 14 Jul 25, Monday