Pacific Overtures
Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman (authors of Assassins) mix elements of Kabuki theatre with the conventions of the Broadway musical in Pacific Overtures, a highly original, inventive, powerful, educational and surprisingly humorous theatrical experience. Considered by many to be the artistic pinnacle of the legendary Sondheim/Prince collaborations, this exploration of culture and imperialism pushes the boundaries of musical theatre further than ever before.
Commodore Matthew Perry's 1853 mission to open trade relations with isolationist Japan through gunboat diplomacy forges an unlikely friendship between the samurai, Kayama, and the Americanized fisherman, Manjiro. Kayama and Manjiro – and all of Japanese society – must face the wave of Westernization that follows.
Its epic scope, subject matter, and sheer ambition make Pacific Overtures a unique artistic opportunity for any theatre, large or small, that is looking for a challenge.
Show Essentials
Songs
The Advantages Of Floating In The Middle Of The Sea
There Is No Other Way
Four Black Dragons
Poems
Welcome To Kanagawa
Someone In A Tree
Please Hello
A Bowler Hat
Pretty Lady
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Questions & Answers
Concert Selections for Pacific Overtures
MTI is pleased to provide the pre-approved rental materials of select songs for your symphonic concert performance. Please note, MTI is unable to grant the necessary Performance Rights with this material rental. The Performance Rights needed must be obtained separately through the individual song’s respective small rights agency such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. Please email concerts@mtishows.com with any questions.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A Concert/Symphonic Arrangement has been specifically written for use in a concert setting. Generally this means it features a larger, typical symphonic orchestration than what you may find in the show. It is meant to be performed without singers.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.