Classic Musical Inspirations in ‘Schmigadoon!’

Cinco Paul, a composer deeply influenced by musicals, has integrated his passion into the Broadway show ‘Schmigadoon!’. The production is adapted from the 2021 AppleTV+ series of the same name, now showcased at the Nederlander Theater in Manhattan.

Growing up, Paul was surrounded by musicals. His mother, a piano teacher, often played cast recordings, instilling in him a love for songs from ‘Camelot’, ‘Guys and Dolls’, ‘South Pacific’, and ‘My Fair Lady’. As a child, he frequently watched film adaptations like ‘The Sound of Music’ and ‘Singin’ in the Rain’, and attended local theater performances in Phoenix, experiencing productions such as ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ and ‘Carousel’.

Paul later found success as a screenwriter, known for films like ‘Despicable Me’ and ‘The Secret Life of Pets’. However, his affection for musicals never waned. In his 30s, he conceived a show loosely inspired by the 1947 musical ‘Brigadoon’. This idea evolved into ‘Schmigadoon!’, following two doctors, Melissa and Josh, who find themselves in a mysterious town living out a musical narrative, complete with dream ballets and constant reprises. Over two seasons, the show gained acclaim for its clever nods to classic musicals.

The Broadway adaptation of ‘Schmigadoon!’ continues this homage. Every musical number pays tribute to several classic works, blending familiarity with fresh humor. According to Elisabeth Vincentelli in The New York Times, the show is described as “affectionate without being misty-eyed, sharp without being sanctimonious.”

Even without extensive musical knowledge, audiences can appreciate the universal comedy. Paul believes that anyone, even those less knowledgeable about musical references, will enjoy the story, humor, and musicality of ‘Schmigadoon!’.