Working Girl Musical: Fun, Female Empowerment & Broadway | American Theatre

Cyndi Lauper Brings 80s Vibe and Modern Relevance to New “Working Girl” Musical

A new stage adaptation of the 1988 film Working Girl,featuring music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper,is set to premiere at the La Jolla Playhouse from October 28 to November 30,promising a blend of nostalgic charm and contemporary resonance. The production arrives as the story’s themes of female empowerment and workplace equality remain strikingly relevant.

Lauper’s Unexpected Connection to the Original Film

The choice of Lauper, a defining musical and fashion icon of the 1980s, to score the musical feels remarkably fitting. Interestingly, her involvement with the story predates the stage adaptation. The singer and Melanie Griffith, who starred in the original film, were acquaintances at the time, and Griffith reportedly sought Lauper’s assistance with her accent for the role.

Did you know? – Melanie Griffith and Cyndi Lauper were friends during the filming of the original Working Girl. Griffith asked Lauper for help perfecting her character’s accent, demonstrating a pre-existing connection to the story.

From “kinky Boots” to Character-Driven Storytelling

Lauper’s previous success writing the Tony-winning score for Kinky Boots in 2013 proved instrumental in preparing her for this new project. She explained that the experience taught her “to write in other people’s voices,” allowing her to deeply connect with and authentically portray the characters in Working Girl.

A Comedic take on a Classic Tale

The musical features a book by Theresa Rebeck and direction by Christopher Ashley. Rebeck’s adaptation aims to deliver “a ferociously comedic” interpretation of the film’s Cinderella-esque narrative. Ashley noted that setting the story in the 1980s was a deliberate choice, as the central plot point – a secretary impersonating her boss – would be far more difficult to execute in today’s hyper-connected digital landscape.

Pro tip: – The 1980s setting is crucial to the plot. The lack of widespread digital communication makes Tess mcgill’s deception believable, a challenge in a modern workplace.

Reflecting on the “Unwokeness” of the Reagan Era

Rebeck found exploring the power dynamics of the 1980s surprisingly engaging, despite acknowledging the era’s political shortcomings. She described the male characters as “almost celebratory in their unwokeness,” finding a certain amusement in depicting their attitudes.

A Story Still Echoing Today’s Struggles

However, Lauper emphasized the enduring relevance of Working Girl’s themes, notably in light of recent setbacks like the rollback of Roe v. Wade, may even be more pertinent. Lauper highlighted the persistent existence of “glass ceilings” and the ongoing struggle for equal treatment in the workplace.

Ultimately, Working Girl promises a vibrant and timely theatrical experience, proving that even in a world transformed, some battles for equality continue to be fought – and sung about – with unwavering spirit.

Reader question: – Do you think the themes of Working Girl resonate differently now than thay did in 1988? What aspects feel most relevant today?

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News Report Summary:

Why: A stage adaptation of the 1988 film Working Girl is premiering to explore enduring themes of female empowerment and workplace equality.

who: The musical features music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, a book by Theresa Rebeck, and direction by Christopher Ashley. Melanie Griffith, star of the original film, had a prior connection with Lauper.

What: The musical is a comedic retelling of the film’s story, focusing on a secretary who impersonates her boss to climb the corporate ladder. It aims to highlight the challenges women face in the workplace and the persistence of inequality.

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