Episode 138 - If I Were a Rich Man

The 1960s would eventually completely revolutionize huge swaths of the American cultural landcape, including Broadway. But as is often the case, the early part of the decade looks a lot like the decade before: talented young writers, composers, directors, and producers pushing at the boundaries of what Rodgers & Hammerstein had done. It was the Golden Age of the Broadway Musical, and its last masterpiece was Bock and Harnick's Fiddler on the Roof from 1964. Produced by Hal Prince, directed by Jerome Robbins, and starring the indomitable Zero Mostel, the show was an absolute smash, and is one of the last of its kind. Join us as we talk Fiddler, Zero, HUAC, and "If I Were a Rich Man."   All clips are from the 1964 cast album of Fiddler on the Roof featuring Zero Mostel and are protected by the Fair Use guidelines of Section 107 of the Copyright Act for criticism and commentary. All rights reserved to the copyright owners. Listen to the SMSTS playlist on Spotify! Follow SMSTS on Instagram: @somuchstufftosing Email the show: [email protected] Recommended Reading/Viewing: The transcript of Zero Mostel's testimony before HUAC Ethan Mordden, Anything Goes: A History of American Musical Theater (Mordden's other volumes are also excellent resources for more in-depth discussion) Broadway: The American Musical