Music by: Jerome Kern Revival directed by: Harold Prince

Book & Lyrics by: Oscar Hammerstein II Based on Show Boat by Edna Ferber

Show Boat is the story of three generations on the River Boat, The Cotton Blossom. It follows the fortunes of Magnolia, the daughter of the owners of the Cotton Blossom, and her gambling husband Gaylor Ravenal. Interwoven into this story are the stories of the black workers and stevedores along the Mississippi, and a racially mixed performer on the Cotton Blossom whose husband is white. Read the complete synopsis. For an even more detailed look at what happens, browse through the lyrics.

Show Boat is often credited with having a hand in creating the modern musical. Opening in 1927, it was the first show that fit the title of a musical play, rather than a musical comedy. There was a serious plot, with three-dimensional characters, serious issues, and a beautiful, full score. Read more about the novel the show is based on, the development of the musical, or the movie version that followed.

I'm a little ashamed to admit that I only own one recording of this show! It's the recent Canadian cast recording, and I really enjoy it - I will try to get some more soon! In the meantime, read more of my thoughts on the CD, or listen to a clip from one of my favourite songs.

I had been going to the theatre for about four years before I saw Show Boat, but I had only really seen Andrew Lloyd Webber or Boublil/Schönberg shows - this was the first "old" show that I'd seen. But it didn't really make any difference, I still enjoyed it just the same. Read my thoughts on the performance I saw.

This revival had a *huge* cast - more than 60 actors - here's a look at some of my favourites that have been in the show. Once you're done looking around here, check out some of the other Show Boat sites that are out there.