Bugsy Malone

Musical

Writers: Alan Parker Paul Williams

Overview

Show Information

Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
1983
Genres
Comedy
Settings
Contemporary, Multiple Settings
Time & Place
new york, 1929
Cast Size
medium
Orchestra Size
Small
Dancing
Some Dance
Licensor
Ideal for
Community Theatre, High School, Large Cast
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes early teen, late teen, child characters

Synopsis

It is 1929 in New York and the city is divided by gang warfare. On one side, Dandy Dan’s mob terrorise the district, taking out those they turn against with their new splurge guns. On the other side, Dandy Dan’s rival, Fat Sam, runs his successful Grand Slam Speakeasy. There, he deals with business and enjoys the attentions of his girlfriend, the seductive Tallulah. However Sam is jealous of Dandy Dan’s gang as he still uses old-fashioned custard pies to take out their victims. When Fat Sam’s gang is brutally splurged and his empire under severe threat, he engages the help of Bugsy Malone, a smooth-talking man about town. While Bugsy simultaneously attempts to woo Blousey Brown, the new-girl singer in town, he helps Fat Sam steal a fresh delivery of splurge guns from Dandy Dan. However Bugsy’s efforts cost him his relationship with Blousey after he lets her down by not taking her to Hollywood as promised. Returning to the speakeasy, Blousey and the rest of Fat Sam’s crew are unaware of Dandy Dan’s intent for revenge. His mob burst into the speakeasy and chaos ensues. Splurge, custard pies, and flour bombs fly across the bar. As the pandemonium comes to a sticky end, it emerges that Bugsy and Blousey have reconciled and there is finally peace between the two rival gangs.

Lead Characters


Bugsy Malone guide sections