THE GIFT OF THE MAGI Music by Randy Courts, lyrics by Mark St. Germain and Randy Courts drawn from two short stories by O. Henry. Players Theatre, Off-Broadway 1 December, 1975 (48 perfs) Lamb's Theatre, Off-Broadway - December 4, 1990 (32 perfs) SYNOPSIS It is Christmas in New York, but for two young lovers, Jim and Della, the prospects are bleak, as both are out of work and penniless. But as those familiar with the famous O. Henry story are aware, their dilemma is solved when both part with their most precious possessions, (she her beautiful long hair, he his heirloom pocket watch) in order to buy presents for each outer thereby creating, at least for a magical moment, an aura of warmth and giving in the cold, impersonal winter city. In addition to their story, there are glimpses of various city folk (played by the same two performers) going about their holiday business, and the hilarious plight of a cheerful bum named Soapy, who wants only to get arrested so he can spend the night in a cosy cell, all gracefully enhanced by tuneful songs and neatly tied together by a newsboy narrator, Willy, who adds his own melodious contribution and informative observations to the delightful proceedings. CAST: - 4 men 2 women. • Jim Young - a young working man • Della Young - his wife of one month • Antionio Giordano - a street vendor • Reilly - a Policeman • Schiller - Owner of the jewellery shop • Henry - Schiller's Clerk • Salvation Army Band - 2 women, 1 man (who are actually singers, not musicians) • Willie - Antonio's Son • Three Other Youngsters - 2 of them girls, or any large number • Madame Safronie - a hair and comb merchant • Amelia - her Clerk Note: All the characters, except Jim and Della, sing in the choruses. MUSICAL NUMBERS: 1. The Beautiful Children 2. Brave You 3. Day After Day 4. Della's Desire 5. The Gift 6. He Did It, She Did It! 7. I've Got Something Better 8. Kids Are Out 9. The Magi Waltz 10. Make HimThink I'm Still Pretty 11. Mr. James Dillingham Young 12. A Penny saved 13. Pretty Lady 14. Quiet Morning 15. Sullivan Street Flat 16. There You Go Again 17. Till Tomorrow 18. Washington Square 19. You'd Better Tell Her PLACE: a Big City TIME: Christmas, many years ago INSTRUMENTATION: Piano/Conductor, Drum (optional)
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