The legendary lyricist, director, and writer of “The Fantasticks,” Tom Jones retires. Musical theater has reached its climax. Jones left an enduring stage legacy of innovation and emotion. He died at 95, leaving a legacy of good deeds.
Tom Jones left Sharon, Connecticut, on his final trip on a calm Friday. “The Fantasticks” producer Dan Shaheen announced his departure. He died from cancer. As his career ends, we consider his legacy.
Jones and Harvey Schmidt made “The Fantasticks” a musical classic. “110 in the Shade” and “I Do! I Do!” continued Broadway’s heritage. The American Theatre Hall of Fame inducted him in 1998, demonstrating his global impact.
“The Fantasticks,” based on an obscure Edmond Rostand play, was a fantastic experience that broke the law. Its modest yet intriguing set was a stage with poles, curtains, and a wooden box where dreams danced. It was a quirky twist on Romeo and Juliet about star-crossed lovers assisted by a mysterious group. Its 1960 cast of Jerry Orbach and Rita Gardner was followed by Ricardo Montalban, Kristin Chenoweth, and Santino Fontana. It won the 1991 Tony Award for Outstanding Theatre.
one symphony composer, Tom Jones, remarked, “So many people have come, but this thing stays the same: the platform, the wooden box, and the cardboard moon.” After almost 42 years and 17,000 performances at the Sullivan Street Playhouse, 9/11 and a changing culture necessitated its return.
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“The Fantasticks” was revived at The Snapple Theater Center in Times Square. Milestones kept leading to triumph. 20,000 festivities occurred in 2013. However, 2017 marked Jones’ historical moment. It was the longest-running American theater show, with 21,552 performances.
“Try to Remember” adds nostalgia to this auditory legacy’s airy tones. Ed Ames, Harry Belafonte, Barbra Streisand, and Placido Domingo sang it because they liked it. From “Try to Remember the Kind of September” to “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” these tunes are ingrained.
Jones’s voyage was rough. “The Fantasticks” was first panned, but time helped it. Despite criticism, a story-telling symphony that celebrated its defects became a classic. Jones and Schmidt painted new chapters over time. “110 in the Shade” and “I Do! I Do!” earned Tony Award nominations.
Tom Jones’ life is ending, but his legacy will endure. Michael and Sam, his sons, will carry on. This shows his legacy. His melodies and hearts live on. “Such a good guy,” observed Broadway veteran Danny Burstein. I loved him.