Harmony

Setting: Rehearsal Rooms/Apartments, Nightclubs/Performance Venues, Synagogue, Offices, Train Station, Various Flash Locations.

Harmony chronicles the real-life story of the Comedian Harmonists, a group of six talented musicians who rose to fame in pre-World War II Germany. The plot takes audiences from their humble beginnings to their unbelievable success and then to their eventual dissolution in the face of the rising Nazi regime. The musical explores themes of friendship, love, courage, and the power of art in the face of adversity and historical conflicts. It's a story that echoes through time, resonating with the experiences of artists across generations.

 At the heart of Harmony are the six members of the band - Rabbi, Harry, Chopin, Lesh, Bobby, and Erich. Each character brings a unique perspective and voice to the group, and it's through their interactions that the story unfolds. Rabbi is a dreamer, with unwavering faith in music's power to unite people. Harry, the romantic, falls in love with Ruth, a beautiful singer, and this relationship adds an emotional depth to the narrative. Chopin, Lesh, Bobby, and Erich each have their own quirks and strengths that contribute to the group's dynamic chemistry. They stand together through trials and tribulations, their bond growing stronger with every challenge they face.

Harmony is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to transcend boundaries. The characters, each with their unique personalities and dreams, are the beating heart of this narrative, making it a musical experience that audiences will remember long after the curtain falls.

Historical Commentary in Harmony

Harmony is more than just a musical; it's a powerful commentary on a crucial period in history. Set in pre-war Germany, the show reflects on the socio-political climate of the era, an epoch marked by rapid changes, rising tensions, and the ominous growth of the Nazi regime. It’s a world where art and culture thrived even as the shadow of oppression and persecution loomed large. The creators of Harmony have effectively painted a picture of this time, beautifully capturing its vibrancy and impending darkness.

 A significant aspect of Harmony is its portrayal of the Jewish members of the Comedian Harmonist and the persecution they faced—-three members, Frommermann, Collin, and Cycowski, were Jewish or of Jewish descent, and Bootz was married to a Jewish woman. The show intricately weaves this narrative into its plot, reflecting the horrifying realities of the period. It doesn't shy away from depicting the anti-Semitism of the time, as well as the political censorship German entertainers had to grapple with that ultimately led to the disbanding of the group. This historical accuracy lends authenticity to the production, making it a poignant reflection on the past.