Overview
Synopsis
On the night of his 35th birthday, Robert struggles to think of a wish to make as he blows out his birthday candles. The lone bachelor, surrounded by “those good and crazy people” -- his married friends -- Robert is uncertain whether he should simply be happy with his lot or whether he should wish for his own romantic partner. Over a series of dinner parties, first dates, and thoughtful conversations, Robert attempts to understand the pros and cons of marriage from his diverse and frequently hilarious friends, and begins to make sense of his own persistent bachelorhood. Company, Stephen Sondheim’s groundbreaking modern musical, is a mature, intelligent, and wildly funny look at relationships, vulnerability, and “being alive.”
Show Information
Context
Company, a 1970 concept musical, was based on a series of eleven one-act plays by George Furth, a collection intended as a star vehicle for actress Kim Hunter. In 1968, actor Anthony Perkins, best known for playing Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, expressed interest in directing the one-acts for Broadway. When he failed to secure funding, Perkins brought the plays to Stephen Sondheim. Intrigued, Sondheim then shared the plays with legendary producer [Harold
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Act One
It’s Robert (Bobby)’s 35th birthday. He shows up at his apartment, only to find himself in the midst of a surprise party, filled with his friends -- Joanne and Larry, Peter and Susan, Harry and Sarah, David and Jenny, and Paul and Amy.Though Robert is single, every other one of his friends is either married or engaged. After the gift exchange, Robert’s friends bring out a birthday cake. Although Robert fails to blow out the candles, his friends assure him that his wish will still
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Interactive Character Map
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Character Portrayals
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Songs
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A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number.
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
THEMES
Marriage and Relationships
Marriage and relationships serve as the central theme, exploring the complexities, compromises, and contradictions inherent in romantic partnerships through a series of vignettes featuring the protagonist Bobby (or Bobbie in some revivals) and his married friends. The show presents marriage not as an idealized institution but as a multifaceted experience filled with joys, regrets, and mundane realities, as seen in songs like "The Little Things You Do
to read about the themes, symbols and motifs from Company and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Key Terms
A concept musical is a type of musical structured around a central idea, theme, or message rather than a straightforward linear plot. Songs, characters, and scenes are often arranged to explore this unifying concept from different perspectives. This style allows for greater experimentation and can blend satire, social commentary, or abstract storytelling.
A vignette in drama is a short, self-contained scene or playlet that focuses on a single moment, theme, or character interaction. It does not require a full plot or complex structure, but instead provides a snapshot of life that conveys emotion, humor, or insight. Vignettes can stand alone or be grouped together to form a larger work.
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