Dearest Enemy

Musical

Writers: Herbert Fields Richard Rodgers Lorenz Hart

Overview

Show Information

Lyrics
Based on the Play/Book/Film
Based on a true American Revolutionary War incident.
Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
1925
Genres
Comedy, Historical/Biographical
Settings
Period, Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
New York, 1776
Cast Size
large
Orchestra Size
Large
Dancing
Some Dance
Licensor
None/royalty-free
Ideal for
Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, College/University, High School
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes young adult, mature adult, late teen, adult characters

Synopsis

Mrs. Murray (of the Murray Hill Murrays) has taken many young women under her charge during the Revolutionary War. As they reside in Murray House, sewing uniforms for General George Washington’s army, some of the young women make acquaintance with British soldiers, homesick and looking for companionship. Mrs. Murray is quick to discourage the ladies from entertaining the British soldiers, but when Washington sends word to Mrs. Murray that she must try to detain the British troops for as long as possible, it is up to Mrs. Murray and her lovely ladies to charm the soldiers and delay their marching. Can the ladies save the day? Dearest Enemy is a historical comedy and the first of eight book musicals written by the duo of Rodgers & Hart. Please note that this guide is based on the original 1925 production, not the 2001 restoration production.

Lead Characters


Dearest Enemy guide sections