No, No, Nanette

Definition

No, No, Nanette is a musical comedy that premiered in 1925, featuring music by Vincent Youmans and a book by Otto Harbach and Frank Mandel. The show is significant in the evolution of musical theatre as it represents the shift towards lighthearted, romantic storylines paired with catchy melodies and lively dance numbers, reflecting the carefree spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. No, No, Nanette was one of the first musical comedies to become a major hit on Broadway during the 1920s, showcasing the popularity of this new genre.
2. The score includes memorable songs such as 'Tea for Two' and 'I Want to Be Happy,' which became standards in American music.
3. The original production was notable for its innovative choreography by George Balanchine, setting a new standard for dance in musicals.
4. The show was revived multiple times after its original run, including a successful 1971 revival that brought it back into the public eye.
5. No, No, Nanette's themes revolve around love and misunderstandings in relationships, embodying the spirit of the Jazz Age and the desire for freedom and fun.

Review Questions

• How did No, No, Nanette contribute to the development of musical comedy as a genre?
  • No, No, Nanette played a pivotal role in shaping musical comedy by emphasizing humor and light-hearted romantic plots. Its success demonstrated that audiences were eager for entertaining stories combined with catchy tunes and energetic dance numbers. The show's blend of whimsical narrative and lively performances set a template for future musical comedies that followed.
• In what ways does No, No, Nanette reflect the cultural context of the Roaring Twenties?
  • No, No, Nanette reflects the Roaring Twenties through its carefree themes of love and romance against a backdrop of societal change. The musical captures the era's spirit by focusing on youthful exuberance and desire for fun while showcasing popular trends like jazz music and dance. This connection highlights how musicals began to mirror the shifting attitudes of society during this transformative decade.
• Evaluate the impact of the score of No, No, Nanette on American musical theatre and popular music.
  • The score of No, No, Nanette had a lasting impact on American musical theatre by introducing songs that became part of the American songbook. Its catchy melodies and memorable lyrics not only appealed to theatre audiences but also crossed over into popular music. The show's success helped establish a new standard for songwriting in musicals, influencing countless composers and lyricists who sought to create similarly engaging music in subsequent productions.

Related terms

Musical Comedy: A genre of musical theatre that emphasizes humor and light-hearted situations, often featuring a romantic plot and lively songs and dances.

The Roaring Twenties: A decade known for its cultural dynamism and social change in America, characterized by economic prosperity, jazz music, and a break from traditional values.

Broadway: The renowned theatre district in New York City, known for its significant role in the production of musicals and plays that have become cultural landmarks.