Chaplin: The Musical

Musical

Writers: Thomas Meehan Christopher Curtis

Overview

Show Information

Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
2010
Genres
Drama, Comedy, Farce
Settings
Period, Multiple Settings
Time & Place
London, America, 1900-1972
Cast Size
medium
Orchestra Size
Medium
Dancing
Some Dance
Ideal for
Ensemble Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Male
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes adult, young adult, mature adult, child, early teen characters

Synopsis

Thomas Meehan and Christopher Curtis’ musical tracks the life and changing fortunes of the famous silent movie star, Charlie Chaplin. In 1913, Chaplin arrived in Hollywood aged just 24 years old. He experienced a meteoric rise from an unknown, small-time London music hall performer to becoming one of the richest, most famous man in the movie business. His iconic role as The Little Tramp propelled him to stardom but fame and notoriety posed its own challenges for Chaplin. With three failed marriages, a paternity suit, and a ruthless journalist determined to expose him as a communist, Chaplin’s fall from grace was meteoric and he spent the remainder of his life exiled in Switzerland. Charlie Chaplin: The Musical moves backward and forward throughout time, exploring how Chaplin’s childhood and inner insecurities shaped Hollywood’s greatest star….and also created his biggest problems. Finally, he is able to escape his past with the help of one woman--Oona O’Neill. Her unconditional love and support allow Chaplin to truly be himself and let go of The Little Tramp.

Lead Characters


Chaplin: The Musical guide sections