Best Foot Forward (musical)
Best Foot Forward is a 1941 musical with songs by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane and a book by John Cecil Holm. Produced by George Abbott, after an out-of-town tryout, the production opened on Broadway on October 1, 1941 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, where it ran for 326 performances. It was directed by Abbott, with choreography by Gene Kelly, and starred Rosemary Lane. The show was Nancy Walker's Broadway debut and also launched June Allyson to stardom. Sets and lighting were by Jo Mielziner, and costumes were by Miles White.
| Best Foot Forward | |
|---|---|
Original Revival Cast recording from the 1963 Off-Broadway production | |
| Music | Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane |
| Lyrics | Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane |
| Book | John Cecil Holm |
| Productions | 1941 Broadway 1943 Film 1954 TV movie 1963 Off Broadway revival |
The musical's success led to a 1943 film adaptation starring Lucille Ball, Allyson and Walker, and a 1954 television adaptation. A 1953 tour featured Debbie Reynolds and Joan Bennett.
The 1963 Off-Broadway revival at Stage 73 ran for 224 performances. It was directed and choreographed by Danny Daniels and featured newcomer Liza Minnelli, who won a Theatre World Award, and Christopher Walken. Veronica Lake was a replacement for Paula Wayne as Gale. A recording of this revival is available on CD.