Ep 5. Prince of Broadway - A Tribute to Harold Prince

Great Performances season 44 episode 5, titled "Prince of Broadway - A Tribute to Harold Prince", is a stunning homage to the celebrated Broadway legend Harold Prince. The show features a brilliant cast of musicians and artists as they come together to honor the late theater producer and director.

The episode captures some of Prince's most iconic productions, highlighting his remarkable contribution to the world of theater. Clips of shows like "The Phantom of the Opera", "West Side Story", "Fiddler on the Roof", and "Cabaret" are interwoven with interviews with some of the key players that worked with Prince, providing insights into his genius and artistic vision.

Through the performance of highlight medleys and nearly two dozen songs from over 50 years of Prince's Broadway shows, viewers are taken on a journey through the intriguing and captivating story of the Prince of Broadway himself. This heart-warming tribute to the legendary Harold Prince features a stunning cast of artists who sing, dance, and perform their hearts out.

The diverse cast includes Tony Award-winning actors such as Karen Ziemba, Brandon Uranowitz, and Chuck Cooper, as well as Broadway veterans such as Tony Yazbeck, Emily Skinner, and Tony-nominee Tony Sheldon. The performers seamlessly transition from one show to the next, bringing the iconic characters and performances from Prince's repertoire to life.

The show also features a wonderful orchestra of over a dozen musicians who play some of Prince's most unforgettable melodies. From the captivating opening bars of "Phantom of the Opera" to the whimsical notes of "A Little Night Music," the orchestra creates a rich, sonic landscape for the performers to take center stage.

The set and costumes are similarly impressive, recreating some of the most well-known characters and moments from Prince's masterpieces with authenticity and attention to detail. The costumes range from the playful to the sophisticated, perfectly capturing the essence of each show.

The episode culminates in a heart-wrenching finale tribute to Harold Prince, with a special performance of "Send in the Clowns" from "A Little Night Music," a song that Prince had always described as his favorite. The cast comes together one last time to honor the Broadway legend, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

In summary, "Prince of Broadway - A Tribute to Harold Prince" is a must-see for any lover of musical theater. The episode celebrates the life and legacy of one of the most transformative figures in the industry, honoring his contributions to the genre with an unbeatable performance by a talented cast of actors and musicians. With its impressive production, heartfelt performances, and behind-the-scenes insights, "Prince of Broadway" is a fitting tribute to the legendary Harold Prince.