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Cover to Gift of the Magi by O HenryThe 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.

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 Him Think 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)