The Magic of 'City of Angels': Why This Revival Deserves Your Attention
There’s something undeniably captivating about a musical that dares to blend satire, noir, and Hollywood glamour into one dazzling package. City of Angels, the Tony-winning masterpiece by Larry Gelbart, Cy Coleman, and David Zippel, is returning to the stage at Ogunquit Playhouse, and personally, I think this revival is more than just a trip down memory lane—it’s a timely reminder of why this show remains a theatrical gem.
A Show That Defies Expectations
What makes City of Angels particularly fascinating is its dual narrative structure. On one level, it’s a meta-commentary on the Hollywood screenwriting process, following novelist Stine as he adapts his book into a screenplay. On another, it’s a hardboiled detective story, complete with all the tropes of film noir. This duality isn’t just clever—it’s a masterclass in storytelling. What many people don’t realize is that the show’s brilliance lies in how seamlessly it weaves these two worlds together, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
From my perspective, this is where the upcoming production, directed by Tony nominee Hunter Foster, has the potential to shine. With Ben Jacoby as Stine and Tony Yazbeck as Stone, the casting feels spot-on. Jacoby’s ability to portray the neurotic yet brilliant writer, paired with Yazbeck’s charisma as the fictional detective, could elevate this revival to new heights. If you take a step back and think about it, the success of City of Angels hinges on the chemistry between these two characters—and I’m betting these actors will deliver.
The Timeless Appeal of Noir
One thing that immediately stands out is the show’s homage to 1940s Hollywood and the film noir genre. The hardboiled dialogue, the shadowy aesthetics, the moral ambiguity—it’s all there, but with a modern twist. What this really suggests is that noir, as a genre, isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a timeless exploration of human complexity. The fact that City of Angels can spoof it while also paying tribute to it is a testament to its cleverness.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the show uses its setting to comment on the superficiality of Hollywood. The glitz and glamour of Tinseltown are juxtaposed with the gritty, often bleak world of Stone’s detective story. This raises a deeper question: Are we, as an audience, complicit in the illusions Hollywood sells us? It’s a provocative idea, and one that makes this revival feel particularly relevant in today’s era of blockbuster franchises and streaming wars.
The Power of Collaboration
What often gets overlooked in discussions of City of Angels is the sheer brilliance of its creative team. Gelbart’s book is sharp and witty, Coleman’s score is infectious, and Zippel’s lyrics are nothing short of genius. Together, they created a show that’s both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. In my opinion, this is why the musical has endured for over three decades—it’s a perfect marriage of talent and vision.
The Ogunquit production, with its impressive creative team, seems poised to honor that legacy. Choreography by Jennifer Rias, scenic design by Nate Bertone, and music direction by Jeffrey Campos all suggest a production that understands the importance of collaboration. What this really suggests is that theater, at its best, is a collective art form—and City of Angels is a prime example of what happens when everyone brings their A-game.
Why This Revival Matters
If you’re wondering why you should care about this revival, consider this: City of Angels isn’t just a musical—it’s a cultural artifact. It’s a show that captures the essence of an era while also transcending it. In a world where theater often feels dominated by jukebox musicals and familiar titles, this revival is a breath of fresh air.
Personally, I think what makes this production particularly exciting is its potential to introduce a new generation to the show’s brilliance. For longtime fans, it’s a chance to revisit a favorite. For newcomers, it’s an opportunity to discover something truly special. What many people don’t realize is that City of Angels is more than just a musical—it’s a love letter to storytelling itself.
Final Thoughts
As someone who’s always been drawn to shows that challenge conventions, I’m eagerly anticipating this revival. City of Angels is a reminder that theater can be both entertaining and thought-provoking, witty and heartfelt. It’s a show that doesn’t just tell a story—it invites you to think about the stories we tell ourselves.
So, if you’re in Maine this summer, do yourself a favor and catch this production. In my opinion, it’s not just a show—it’s an experience. And who knows? You might just find yourself humming ‘You’re Nothing Without Me’ long after the curtain falls.
