First version I heard was that of the late, great Madeline Kahn, performing it a tribute to Sondheim special. She did a great job. When I finally viewed the documentary of the original cast recording, I was blown away by the original actress (whose name escapes me.). Pure genius when it comes to concept and lyrics of this particular number.
Asher Halperin OMG You may not trust me, If I were you I didn't trust me (? What am I writing ?), but when appeard that scene, In that very moment, I saw your comment 😂😂 sorry I'm Italian
I think I'd have to say that Peter and Susan are my favourite couple in Company - I've just always loved the concept of two people who decide to end their relationship in its current form, but are so tied into each others' lives and perhaps so comfortable tomorrow that the actual dynamic remains more or less intact.
Funny. I don't think Dean Jones or Larry Kert even wore a tie in the ORIGINAL BROADWAY PRODUCTION. This show existed before Raul Esparza, children. Act like it.
I appreciate your analysis - I've only recently discovered "Company," and as a 36-year-old single woman who desperately wants to marry someday, it has kicked me in the metaphorical nads. There's nothing greater about any art form than its ability to change with times, worldviews, and personal interpretation. Thanks!
“Marry, and you will regret it; don’t marry, you will also regret it; marry or don’t marry, you will regret it either way. Laugh at the world’s foolishness, you will regret it; weep over it, you will regret that too; laugh at the world’s foolishness or weep over it, you will regret both.”
This has to be one of your best videos. I loved the in-depth analysis. Good choice of filming it in your bedroom in your suit, to give it the intimate yet formal feel of Company's dinner parties.
Dear Musical Theatre Mash, You should absolutely reedit this video in the light of the amazing new production in West End, though it does not contradict your theories. Male Bobby has become female Bobbie, the three girls have become Andy, Theo and PJ - and other surprises that I do not wish to spoil. Marianne Elliott has managed to keep the original messages and concept intact while adapting the characters and situations to a more modern world so everybody may relate to the "new" protagonists. Not to mention Rosalie Craig and Patti LuPone and the rest of the cast who were magnificent and the stage design that was brilliant. I loved it and I encourage you to go watch this unique production. ;)
I was lucky enough to see switched gender version in west end production. Although I knew couple of songs from the show I had no idea what’s show is supposed to be about(well ok, I thought it might be about guy struggling to find a balance between his professional and personal life due to his job at the “business company” smth) , but I was aware of switched gender thing and was looking forward to see Patti LuPone in the flesh. I count myself lucky to see this version though. Male main character would be probably boring to me as I find women more relatable. And of course show was great would watch it anytime again!
I watched this video 3 years ago when making a presentation for a class. After the class ended, I forgot about it. This fall, we had to write a paper on Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin. Some wrote about Tatiana, but a lot of us wrote about Eugene. We spent at least 1 class discussing past & potential thesis arguments. After this discussion, the only thing I could think was “is he gay, is he stupid, why is he here”
I saw Company for the first time last year (in the Neil Patrick Harris youtube version) and what amazed me is that it was the most refined version of the quirky relationship comedy/drama of the 60s/70s like the ones from Paul Mazursky , "Carnal Knowledge" etc, with a theme I barely saw touched: when one is the weird single guy in a group of friends that are married, and find yourself always being the third leg... and they not wanting you, really, to become anything else. I was severely impressed, and the musical numbers also worked really well but I was touched by the themes behind, really really touched.
My favorite couple in company would probably be Amy and Paul. His calm, consistent live ideally balances her manic neuroses. It's beautiful. And you can just tell how much they love each other. I also have a soft spot for Bobby and Kathy. I think their breakup/her marriage is a great tragedy of the piece, and that she is likely the love of his life. I adore Susan and Peter, but their (platonic?) cohabitation (reminiscent of Will & Grace) does not have the weight for me.
John Doyle’s production was absolutely the best. Most directors play the relationships as comedy, but he showed the resignation of partners and dark side of relationships. Unbelievably real and Raul Esparza was vulnerable and questioning.
I remember first seeing Company in a regional theatre production back in the late 70's with my mom and I didn't get it. It wasn't like the musicals I grew up listening to like My Fair Lady, West Side Story and The Music Man. When I finally saw the Neil Patrick Harris production on PBS, I finally got the concept. I have the original Broadway cast album on cd and love listening to it.
The Harris version is my favorite, even above the original cast, although Dean Jones still owns "Being Alive" IMHO. I loved Harris as Toby, too, in Sweeney. There is something magnetic about his stage presence, which again IMHO resembles that of Matthew Broderick.
I've watched company probably a hundred times, and you offered genuinely new insight that I hadn't noticed before (probably because I've mostly watched Raul Esparaza's version 90 times). The amazing thing about Sondheim is that it gets better the more you watch it, and the more life experience you get, the more details you notice and the better it is. Sondheim is truly the Shakespeare of Musical Theater.
I've always had a really hard time with this musical and (honestly) have only come to appreciate it recently. What do you (a preteen girl) do when you encounter a musical in which no one is likable or... interesting? Now that I'm an adult, I definitely find the characters interesting (and Elaine Stritch's character...forgot the name...is definitely likable). But when Mash talks about the concepts of pre-and-post marital relationships, with Bobby as kind of "there," I don't know, I feel like he articulated how I felt about the show when I was a kid. I couldn't really identify with any of the characters and knew that even though I wasn't the same age or at the same life stage, they didn't really represent me or how I was raised to be. And I guess that's the thing about concept musicals - without an actual plot-driven story arc to follow, you're left with ideas. But what if none of the ideas really reach you?
I had very much the same feeling when I was in a production of Company my Freshman year of college. Our closing night we only had 6 people come and I felt it was due to the fact that literally no college student can relate to a show that to me seemed to be only about marriage.
@Caroline, that's why it's so interesting - and great - that the show's concept and focus has changed over the years. I watched the Raul Esparza recording of the show as an angsty teen, and though I (of course) had no way to relate to the marriage difficulties, I WAS moved by Bobby's struggle to figure out why he really wants to get married, what he wants out of a marriage, how to interact with his dates, and furthermore, his decision in the end to give up on the idea of a hypothetical perfect "easy" relationship and instead appreciate the beauty and hardship of a real one. That was a hell of a run-on sentence, sorry. TL;DR: When this show is done well, Bobby is incredibly relatable. At least, he was to me when I was a teenager struggling with depression and having a lot of trouble with the idea of interpersonal relationships.
@@TheDeerstalkerHat Basically went through the exact same situation. Looking back, I think there is something uniquely appealing about Sondheim as an angsty teen.
Thank you for your thoughts! Company is my all-time favorite Sondheim show and the first one that I really sunk my teeth into. It just asks so many questions.
Very good analysis. You imply the following in your discussion, but I wish you'd referenced Sondheim's comment specifically, in his interview with Sam Mendes between the acts of the Donmar production. He says twice that the play is taking place inside Bobby's head. Here's the full quote: "What you've made clear as the director is that it's something that takes place inside the hero's head. And by doing that, you've reversed the polarity, so to speak, of the show's reputation. It's always been known as the show with a lot of fascinating characters and a cypher at the center. And, suddenly, here's a show in which the most interesting character is the one at the center, and it's been restored to its natural balance. Here's a piece about this man, and it's taking place inside his head, and he's in trouble. Now let's see what happens."
I think an interesting aspect of the musical is that it provides a commentary on the main characters family life through their friends. I think that it still hits all the marks and themes even now with the social media dating scene. Its timeless
Everytime I listen to "Company" it always brings me back to "I Want Song" video and everytime I feel like "Company" is just the part of the exposition and the actual show will begin right after Being alive.
i'm about to direct an amateur production of company (my directorial debut) and this video has been really helpful about settling on the tone and themes i wanna highlight, so big thanks :) also, definitely gonna play it at information night :P
Company is also one of my favorites. I only knew a few song for watching some of the revues show so when i found a CD of the original cast recording in 2002 I was so happy to get to know this musical. Now I have seen both 2006 revival with Raul Espazar as Bobby as well as the 2011 with NPH.
Great analysis! I really enjoyed your research into the original performance and reviews. My only (very slight) critique: perhaps your last line could have been "And that's one of the things that makes Sondheim's musical theater...alive!" Cheers to being alive!
I have found memories company because it's where I first saw Raul Esparza :) I was very excited to see his clip played in the video. Keep on making these great videos!
Finally I have found an analysis of my favorite musical! :D I feel so much joy talking about and hearing you talk about Company, because it's a thing- I feel- that demands to be talked about. All the points you hit on were so good to hear out loud- the change over time of Bobby's character, the various aspects that are brought in and out of the show to reflect the times, the KAZOO- I loved your analysis beyond words! It's the wandering thoughts, the occasional jarring musical cues, the almost refusal of Bobby to be the main character in his own story, that makes me watch and think about this musical all the time. Thank you so much for the video!
Company is one of my favorite musicals. It's also a musical that I can go back and listen to and I'll love it just the same. The thing with Company, at least for me, is that it also doubles as a character analysis. Bobby shifts from being someone yearning for connection but also fearing it, to someone who fully accepts the trials and tribulations of commitment and relationships. I agree that Company, as a whole, has changed throughout the years (kind of like Follies) but you're right when you say that that's what makes Sondheim's musicals, and musical theatre in general, so great. Anyway, loved the video. Also Dean Jones only played Bobby for one night (hence why he wasn't nominated for his performance) and it's Larry Kert not Larry Kept. Other than that, keep up the good work! 😉😆😅
This is such a great perspective on Company, you're totally right about it changing! I'm seeing Company in London for the second time tonight (and I have tickets to go again on the last performance!) I didn't expect it to hit me so much when I first went to see it, but I really do feel like it's a musical with so many layers than it first appears - it's one of the only art pieces that discusses relationships in an honest, more brutal light, rather than as a happy ending. I was even more interested to find out that Sondheim is gay, so I feel there is a layer of that in Bobby's inability to commit. Please do an update video discussing the current London production that has gender-swapped Bobby and a few of the other characters! Talk about changing the concept
i'm going to see this later this year in london! never thought i'd get a chance to see patti lupone performing in the flesh but it's happening and i'm excited!
Company is so sad... I just saw it, I immediately love it (Despite Neil Patrick Harris' singing) and right after seen it I fell empty and sad... Kinda like Gypsy, but stronger (Cause the Bette Midler's version I saw was a bit happier than Lupone's that I saw later).
Aaaah Company IS my Sondheim Story. Always thought it was beautiful and ephemeral and all those things. Thank you for giving this insight into the show :')
The first time I saw Company was a couple of years ago. I fortunately saw the Ruiz version and it is my favorite this far. You have made quite an accurate assessment of it, and comparison to the other versions. Anyway, I love the show. Thanks for your commentary.
I saw an interesting student production of this at the Edinburgh Fringe, in which Bobby was cast as a female (Bobbi), and featured a gay and a lesbian couple. Thoughts on the premise?
Tick Tock is my favorite number. The use of a dance scene to portray sex was a genius move and I LOVE the score and dance itself. In addition, I love it for what interpretations can be found out of it: Is Bobby thinking about Kathy while having sex with April? Is Kathy having sex with her new husband but thinking about Bobby? Is Kathy a representation of a time that Bobby and Kathy made love? I am so upset whenever a production cuts the scene. I know that it can be a bit difficult finding a dancer to play Kathy, but in addition to losing the amazing number, leaving it out makes Kathy feel like she's missing a scene while Marta and April get more screentime.
I am so glad someone shares my thoughts on Tick Tock. I love the chords and harmony as well as the use of songs in the show being used and of course the vibraphone part and percussion,(I'm obviously a musician) are genius. One of Sondheims best scores and one of kind, just like Forum and Sweeney.
This was a great video. I was doing some research on the musical as I am performing it in school with my musical theatre class, and I'm playing David. I came across this video and it gave me a slightly better understanding of what the show is (really) about. Thanks!
Well done. A few years ago, I dissed one of your vids on Broadway World, only to have you respond. I felt badly, but told you to keep at it. I'm glad you did because this is excellent and made me tear up at the end.
i’m always confused, is each new birthday the next year or just the year repeating? so are these experiences just in the same year, spread out? or just over multiple years?
Thank you for this video - this is one of my favourite shows! It'd be awesome if you guys would talk about Company in you and Jimi's podcast some time :)
I still feel that nobody get the part of Joanna right other than Elaine Stritch. While Patti is a better singer. Elaine is just better at this character!!
I find that even though she might not be the best singer, she is thought and has attitude that you can always admire. I loved her singing I'm still here!
Company is probably my favourite musical of all time. I honestly think that of all the actresses I’ve seen or heard in the role, no one can hold a candle to Barbara Walsh and her warm dryness
can some one please explain the ending of company to me? is the sound next door bobby killing himself? if so whats with the chouch? is the chouch symbolizing him being ready to find a wife or accepting that he would be single?
Hi, this is late, but I think it's Bobby finally letting go of his illusions and the pressures from his married friends, and finally deciding he's ready to settle down. Also, I read once that a production used the Bobby-kills-himself ending, and Sondheim was NOT pleased.
As you can see from my T-shirt, I am passionate about musical theatre. Company has been my favorite musical since, oh, around 1974. Your commentary is excellent (except it's Larry Kert, not Larry Kept). I've seen it, oh, a half dozen times (and am currently watching the 2006 revival on youtube). You've given me much to think about, that on some deeper level I already realized, but couldn't have expressed until you pointed it out to me. Thank you.
The musical biography of my own life.I have always loved this show. Sondheim’s brilliant music/lyrics are lilting and thought-provoking. I came out at 35,the year this show opened!I tried dating women,but it wasn’t satisfying. I watched people getting married and felt like an onlooker… Therapy,life experience,etc.culminated with “Company”. Bobby’s life was parallel to mine!
Enjoyed your very insightful observations/reflections on this musical. (By the way, 4:23, just curious as to why you said Larry "Kept," since it's Larry Kert who'd replaced Dean Jones.)
I’d say the average Sondheim fan thinks of Into the Woods as their favorite of his works but for me, and perhaps because I come more from the rock and jazz album works of The Beatles or Miles and their ilk, Company is my favorite and was my gateway musical into Stephen and musicals after the early sixties. Still love it!
I’ve heard that Bobbie been described as the couples’ shared “pet bachelor”. My opinion is the show has been “worked” a little too much over the years.
I dont get people who describe this musical as having "no plot". ???huh?? Yes, the musical has a plot. No, its not linear. No you dont really know what parts are imagined or are memories. Yes, certain scenes happen over and over again. But that doesnt mean there isnt a plot?? Theres conflict, issues, desires, character arcs, etc. It definitely has a plot, its just told very unconventionally.
I hate to say this, but Anthony Perkins never even made it to rehearsals. The authors basically wrote the show about him, but he turned the part down. Not only that, but Jones' replacent was Larry KERT. And I also hate to nitpick one more thing, but the original set design for the 1970 production had elevated platforms, and the 90s once just added onto that.
Andrew Ford The only thing is, I don't like the Amy in the 2006 production. If you've ever seen the 2011 version, it isn't ideal, but Katie Finneran knocks it out of the fucking park.
As the quintessential Bobby (or the female version being Bobbi) of my group I love this musical and plan on having a Company themed 35th birthday party next year
And now, of course, it's three different shows. The latest, brilliant, production in London makes total sense of Bobby as a vacuum, or as a plot device, by making him Bobbie (female), a real person, with real motivations.
How did the book change over time? The first version I saw was the Raul Esparza version. Then I saw the Neil Patrick Harris version. And I’ve heard the origninal sound cast and the Patti LuPone version. But it’s hard to know how the book changed.
This shift in terms of Bobby as a character changes even more in the recent revivals in the West End and Broadway where Bobby is gender swapped and the focus is now much more on that character then even before
Well it is really ironic that while watching this video now, Bobby is now a woman and they've changed the concept yet once again. Lovely video. Thanks :)
Not Larry KEPT as reported here but Larry KERT who replaced Dean Jones shortly after the Broadway opening in the original production. See here: Larry Kert accdg to IMDb: "Played role of Tony in original Broadway production of West Side Story (1957 - 1960) Replaced Dean Jones one month into the original run of Stephen Sondheim's "Company" in 1970. He then repeated the role in the London production. His Tony-nominated performance was so well-recieved [sic] that he recorded all his character's songs, but dubbed his vocals over the ones Jones had already recorded for the original cast album." RIP great actor.
“That’s literally the entire plot” & I eat it up every single time
"Is he gay? Is he stupid? Why is he here?" Literally me.
Ahahahaha
I drink to that! 😂😂😂
@@02JASP Let's AAALLLLLL drink to that!!
LMAOOOO
If he's gay, why does he have three girlfriends?
anyone who performs not getting married at a thematically appropriate speed is a diction master
Check out Julie Andrews version!
Nah I'm just Puerto Rican 😂
First version I heard was that of the late, great Madeline Kahn, performing it a tribute to Sondheim special. She did a great job. When I finally viewed the documentary of the original cast recording, I was blown away by the original actress (whose name escapes me.). Pure genius when it comes to concept and lyrics of this particular number.
@@michaeldean9338The original actress of Amy was Beth Howland.
@@theangel9087 Yes. I couldn't remember her name. Thanks for your input. She was amazing. Peace
My favorite couple's probably Joanne and her drink
jacksonkamiska yeah. They were so in love.
I'll drink to that.
Mood
Omg we Stan😍😍😍‼️
"...what this show was really about..."
Raul: "REALLY ABOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO"
This made me laugh ridiculously hard.
The quick zoom into his open mouth caught me off guard.
It's always Raul Esparza's kazoo.
The one where the actors also play the instruments was amazing!
Asher Halperin OMG You may not trust me, If I were you I didn't trust me (? What am I writing ?), but when appeard that scene, In that very moment, I saw your comment 😂😂 sorry I'm Italian
They're all talented, but I hate the staging concept.
It’s a little too much symbolism for my tastes.
so good!!
That kazoo is the best thing that's ever happened to musicals
A young Raul Esparza doing a musical is all I ever need.
YOU DONT THANK A PERSON FOR HOT ORANGE JUICE!
ChildKreature YOU SLUG EM
You slug em!!
I think I'd have to say that Peter and Susan are my favourite couple in Company - I've just always loved the concept of two people who decide to end their relationship in its current form, but are so tied into each others' lives and perhaps so comfortable tomorrow that the actual dynamic remains more or less intact.
"is he gay? is he stupid? why is he here?" that line has stuck with me for 3 years, fr
Ah, the 70s. When it was totally acceptable to smoke in a recording studio.
Those were the days.
Disgruntled Cashier yes, people who didn’t even have the bad habit had to deal with second hand smoke. What wonderful times
Favorite part of this video is the required Bobby costume, unbuttoned collar and loosened tie.
Funny. I don't think Dean Jones or Larry Kert even wore a tie in the ORIGINAL BROADWAY PRODUCTION.
This show existed before Raul Esparza, children. Act like it.
I appreciate your analysis - I've only recently discovered "Company," and as a 36-year-old single woman who desperately wants to marry someday, it has kicked me in the metaphorical nads. There's nothing greater about any art form than its ability to change with times, worldviews, and personal interpretation. Thanks!
“Marry, and you will regret it; don’t marry, you will also regret it; marry or don’t marry, you will regret it either way. Laugh at the world’s foolishness, you will regret it; weep over it, you will regret that too; laugh at the world’s foolishness or weep over it, you will regret both.”
This has to be one of your best videos. I loved the in-depth analysis. Good choice of filming it in your bedroom in your suit, to give it the intimate yet formal feel of Company's dinner parties.
I notice how you’re dressed as Bobby, and I appreciate that.
Dear Musical Theatre Mash,
You should absolutely reedit this video in the light of the amazing new production in West End, though it does not contradict your theories. Male Bobby has become female Bobbie, the three girls have become Andy, Theo and PJ - and other surprises that I do not wish to spoil. Marianne Elliott has managed to keep the original messages and concept intact while adapting the characters and situations to a more modern world so everybody may relate to the "new" protagonists. Not to mention Rosalie Craig and Patti LuPone and the rest of the cast who were magnificent and the stage design that was brilliant. I loved it and I encourage you to go watch this unique production. ;)
Another voice begging for this to happen. Especially if Rosalie wins the Olivier tomorrow. And of course Jonny Bailey for Jamie.
sounds like lame af pc updating
@@tomato7955 ok boomer
I was lucky enough to see switched gender version in west end production. Although I knew couple of songs from the show I had no idea what’s show is supposed to be about(well ok, I thought it might be about guy struggling to find a balance between his professional and personal life due to his job at the “business company” smth) , but I was aware of switched gender thing and was looking forward to see Patti LuPone in the flesh. I count myself lucky to see this version though. Male main character would be probably boring to me as I find women more relatable. And of course show was great would watch it anytime again!
This sounds AMAZING and where can I watch it
I watched this video 3 years ago when making a presentation for a class. After the class ended, I forgot about it.
This fall, we had to write a paper on Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin. Some wrote about Tatiana, but a lot of us wrote about Eugene. We spent at least 1 class discussing past & potential thesis arguments.
After this discussion, the only thing I could think was “is he gay, is he stupid, why is he here”
For some reason this video reminds me of the Seagram Building.
I saw Company for the first time last year (in the Neil Patrick Harris youtube version) and what amazed me is that it was the most refined version of the quirky relationship comedy/drama of the 60s/70s like the ones from Paul Mazursky , "Carnal Knowledge" etc, with a theme I barely saw touched: when one is the weird single guy in a group of friends that are married, and find yourself always being the third leg... and they not wanting you, really, to become anything else. I was severely impressed, and the musical numbers also worked really well but I was touched by the themes behind, really really touched.
My favorite couple in company would probably be Amy and Paul. His calm, consistent live ideally balances her manic neuroses. It's beautiful. And you can just tell how much they love each other.
I also have a soft spot for Bobby and Kathy. I think their breakup/her marriage is a great tragedy of the piece, and that she is likely the love of his life.
I adore Susan and Peter, but their (platonic?) cohabitation (reminiscent of Will & Grace) does not have the weight for me.
John Doyle’s production was absolutely the best. Most directors play the relationships as comedy, but he showed the resignation of partners and dark side of relationships. Unbelievably real and Raul Esparza was vulnerable and questioning.
Tommy in a suit... Be still my heart.
moving obsession I read it as "Tommy is a slut" and almost went on to sing Great Comet lol sorry not sorry
yoyoeldas hahahaha
Raul is definitely my favorite Bobby. SO good.
I remember first seeing Company in a regional theatre production back in the late 70's with my mom and I didn't get it. It wasn't like the musicals I grew up listening to like My Fair Lady, West Side Story and The Music Man. When I finally saw the Neil Patrick Harris production on PBS, I finally got the concept. I have the original Broadway cast album on cd and love listening to it.
The Harris version is my favorite, even above the original cast, although Dean Jones still owns "Being Alive" IMHO. I loved Harris as Toby, too, in Sweeney. There is something magnetic about his stage presence, which again IMHO resembles that of Matthew Broderick.
I've watched company probably a hundred times, and you offered genuinely new insight that I hadn't noticed before (probably because I've mostly watched Raul Esparaza's version 90 times). The amazing thing about Sondheim is that it gets better the more you watch it, and the more life experience you get, the more details you notice and the better it is. Sondheim is truly the Shakespeare of Musical Theater.
I've always had a really hard time with this musical and (honestly) have only come to appreciate it recently. What do you (a preteen girl) do when you encounter a musical in which no one is likable or... interesting? Now that I'm an adult, I definitely find the characters interesting (and Elaine Stritch's character...forgot the name...is definitely likable). But when Mash talks about the concepts of pre-and-post marital relationships, with Bobby as kind of "there," I don't know, I feel like he articulated how I felt about the show when I was a kid. I couldn't really identify with any of the characters and knew that even though I wasn't the same age or at the same life stage, they didn't really represent me or how I was raised to be.
And I guess that's the thing about concept musicals - without an actual plot-driven story arc to follow, you're left with ideas. But what if none of the ideas really reach you?
I had very much the same feeling when I was in a production of Company my Freshman year of college. Our closing night we only had 6 people come and I felt it was due to the fact that literally no college student can relate to a show that to me seemed to be only about marriage.
@Caroline, that's why it's so interesting - and great - that the show's concept and focus has changed over the years. I watched the Raul Esparza recording of the show as an angsty teen, and though I (of course) had no way to relate to the marriage difficulties, I WAS moved by Bobby's struggle to figure out why he really wants to get married, what he wants out of a marriage, how to interact with his dates, and furthermore, his decision in the end to give up on the idea of a hypothetical perfect "easy" relationship and instead appreciate the beauty and hardship of a real one.
That was a hell of a run-on sentence, sorry. TL;DR: When this show is done well, Bobby is incredibly relatable. At least, he was to me when I was a teenager struggling with depression and having a lot of trouble with the idea of interpersonal relationships.
@@TheDeerstalkerHat Basically went through the exact same situation. Looking back, I think there is something uniquely appealing about Sondheim as an angsty teen.
Very good insight! I fell in love with this musical first time I viewed it this past year. My personal favorite is the 2006 version with Raul Esparza.
This is the Sondheim show I'm most attached to! I wonder if anyone else has discussed this shift in perception, really interesting.
This is an amazing run-down of company and I'm squealing
Thank you for your thoughts! Company is my all-time favorite Sondheim show and the first one that I really sunk my teeth into. It just asks so many questions.
Very good analysis. You imply the following in your discussion, but I wish you'd referenced Sondheim's comment specifically, in his interview with Sam Mendes between the acts of the Donmar production. He says twice that the play is taking place inside Bobby's head. Here's the full quote: "What you've made clear as the director is that it's something that takes place inside the hero's head. And by doing that, you've reversed the polarity, so to speak, of the show's reputation. It's always been known as the show with a lot of fascinating characters and a cypher at the center. And, suddenly, here's a show in which the most interesting character is the one at the center, and it's been restored to its natural balance. Here's a piece about this man, and it's taking place inside his head, and he's in trouble. Now let's see what happens."
"is he gay? is he stupid? why is he here?" How I feel most of the time about most guys.
I think an interesting aspect of the musical is that it provides a commentary on the main characters family life through their friends. I think that it still hits all the marks and themes even now with the social media dating scene. Its timeless
4:24 Larry Kert, not Larry Kept. The little thingy fell off your R.
Love the analysis, by the way.
Everytime I listen to "Company" it always brings me back to "I Want Song" video and everytime I feel like "Company" is just the part of the exposition and the actual show will begin right after Being alive.
i'm about to direct an amateur production of company (my directorial debut) and this video has been really helpful about settling on the tone and themes i wanna highlight, so big thanks :) also, definitely gonna play it at information night :P
Company is also one of my favorites. I only knew a few song for watching some of the revues show so when i found a CD of the original cast recording in 2002 I was so happy to get to know this musical. Now I have seen both 2006 revival with Raul Espazar as Bobby as well as the 2011 with NPH.
Great analysis! I really enjoyed your research into the original performance and reviews. My only (very slight) critique: perhaps your last line could have been "And that's one of the things that makes Sondheim's musical theater...alive!" Cheers to being alive!
I have found memories company because it's where I first saw Raul Esparza :) I was very excited to see his clip played in the video. Keep on making these great videos!
Finally I have found an analysis of my favorite musical! :D I feel so much joy talking about and hearing you talk about Company, because it's a thing- I feel- that demands to be talked about. All the points you hit on were so good to hear out loud- the change over time of Bobby's character, the various aspects that are brought in and out of the show to reflect the times, the KAZOO- I loved your analysis beyond words! It's the wandering thoughts, the occasional jarring musical cues, the almost refusal of Bobby to be the main character in his own story, that makes me watch and think about this musical all the time. Thank you so much for the video!
Company is one of my favorite musicals. It's also a musical that I can go back and listen to and I'll love it just the same. The thing with Company, at least for me, is that it also doubles as a character analysis. Bobby shifts from being someone yearning for connection but also fearing it, to someone who fully accepts the trials and tribulations of commitment and relationships. I agree that Company, as a whole, has changed throughout the years (kind of like Follies) but you're right when you say that that's what makes Sondheim's musicals, and musical theatre in general, so great. Anyway, loved the video. Also Dean Jones only played Bobby for one night (hence why he wasn't nominated for his performance) and it's Larry Kert not Larry Kept. Other than that, keep up the good work! 😉😆😅
This is such a great perspective on Company, you're totally right about it changing!
I'm seeing Company in London for the second time tonight (and I have tickets to go again on the last performance!)
I didn't expect it to hit me so much when I first went to see it, but I really do feel like it's a musical with so many layers than it first appears - it's one of the only art pieces that discusses relationships in an honest, more brutal light, rather than as a happy ending.
I was even more interested to find out that Sondheim is gay, so I feel there is a layer of that in Bobby's inability to commit.
Please do an update video discussing the current London production that has gender-swapped Bobby and a few of the other characters! Talk about changing the concept
Tommy
Tommy
Tommy Baby
Tommy Bubbi
Tommy
Thomas darling
Tommy we've been trying to call you...
What the fuck do you want
I saw Company with Aaron Tviet!
i'm going to see this later this year in london! never thought i'd get a chance to see patti lupone performing in the flesh but it's happening and i'm excited!
I saw her in concert earlier this year and she. was. INCREDIBLE. I hope you enjoy/enjoyed it!
Company is so sad... I just saw it, I immediately love it (Despite Neil Patrick Harris' singing) and right after seen it I fell empty and sad... Kinda like Gypsy, but stronger (Cause the Bette Midler's version I saw was a bit happier than Lupone's that I saw later).
This was super interesting as a lover of the show. Subscribed
Aaaah Company IS my Sondheim Story. Always thought it was beautiful and ephemeral and all those things. Thank you for giving this insight into the show :')
I have literally waited all month for you to delve into Company! My favorite Sondheim work for sure! Another awesome video, Tommy!
Thank you for making a film on Company! One of my all time favorite musicals!
Decided to go see Patti Lupone in Company for my 35th birthday and it was the single best experience of my life.
The first time I saw Company was a couple of years ago. I fortunately saw the Ruiz version and it is my favorite this far. You have made quite an accurate assessment of it, and comparison to the other versions. Anyway, I love the show. Thanks for your commentary.
I saw an interesting student production of this at the Edinburgh Fringe, in which Bobby was cast as a female (Bobbi), and featured a gay and a lesbian couple. Thoughts on the premise?
samrossetc just went to the fringe this year; great stuff
Love it! And I think that the same production is coming to the West End this year
That concept is coming to Broadway this October, I believe.
This premise is currently playing in the West End. It’s fantastic. With Patti LuPone.
time travel
Tick Tock is my favorite number. The use of a dance scene to portray sex was a genius move and I LOVE the score and dance itself.
In addition, I love it for what interpretations can be found out of it:
Is Bobby thinking about Kathy while having sex with April? Is Kathy having sex with her new husband but thinking about Bobby? Is Kathy a representation of a time that Bobby and Kathy made love?
I am so upset whenever a production cuts the scene. I know that it can be a bit difficult finding a dancer to play Kathy, but in addition to losing the amazing number, leaving it out makes Kathy feel like she's missing a scene while Marta and April get more screentime.
I am so glad someone shares my thoughts on Tick Tock. I love the chords and harmony as well as the use of songs in the show being used and of course the vibraphone part and percussion,(I'm obviously a musician) are genius. One of Sondheims best scores and one of kind, just like Forum and Sweeney.
This was a great video. I was doing some research on the musical as I am performing it in school with my musical theatre class, and I'm playing David. I came across this video and it gave me a slightly better understanding of what the show is (really) about. Thanks!
Btw, any of you have seen the article where Sondheim said he was planning to make Bobby a homosexual?
Well done. A few years ago, I dissed one of your vids on Broadway World, only to have you respond. I felt badly, but told you to keep at it. I'm glad you did because this is excellent and made me tear up at the end.
Wonderful analysis. Your videos have really become a mainstay of my TH-cam must sees. Keep up the great work!
I love this show so much!! Just saw the the revival on Broadway with Patti Lupone!!! AMAZING!!!
For me, Company has always been about how couples fool themselves into believing they are happy.
Fucking love company so much
That is the saddest/creepiest bedroom background ever.
i’m always confused, is each new birthday the next year or just the year repeating? so are these experiences just in the same year, spread out? or just over multiple years?
Not the glee version of “Getting Married Today”
Thank you for this video - this is one of my favourite shows! It'd be awesome if you guys would talk about Company in you and Jimi's podcast some time :)
Can you revisit this now with the 2021 revival?
Company actually does have a plot though. It’s a character study musical.
I watched Company for the first time last night and this video made me love it even more. All the yes.
I still feel that nobody get the part of Joanna right other than Elaine Stritch. While Patti is a better singer. Elaine is just better at this character!!
Meh. IMO, Stritch is a mediocre actor and an awful singer.
I find that even though she might not be the best singer, she is thought and has attitude that you can always admire. I loved her singing I'm still here!
I like all of them! But I have a soft spot for Barbara Walsh, and of course Patti. Elaine's is growing on me. It's kind of an acquired taste.
Company is probably my favourite musical of all time. I honestly think that of all the actresses I’ve seen or heard in the role, no one can hold a candle to Barbara Walsh and her warm dryness
Which, of course, is from Follies, not Company.
can some one please explain the ending of company to me? is the sound next door bobby killing himself? if so whats with the chouch? is the chouch symbolizing him being ready to find a wife or accepting that he would be single?
unutilized appearance of calm?
Logan Lussier I thought the same way...still don't know myself really
Hi, this is late, but I think it's Bobby finally letting go of his illusions and the pressures from his married friends, and finally deciding he's ready to settle down.
Also, I read once that a production used the Bobby-kills-himself ending, and Sondheim was NOT pleased.
As you can see from my T-shirt, I am passionate about musical theatre. Company has been my favorite musical since, oh, around 1974. Your commentary is excellent (except it's Larry Kert, not Larry Kept). I've seen it, oh, a half dozen times (and am currently watching the 2006 revival on youtube). You've given me much to think about, that on some deeper level I already realized, but couldn't have expressed until you pointed it out to me. Thank you.
The musical biography of my
own life.I have always loved this show. Sondheim’s brilliant music/lyrics are lilting and thought-provoking.
I came out at 35,the year this show opened!I tried dating women,but it wasn’t satisfying. I watched people
getting married and felt like
an onlooker… Therapy,life
experience,etc.culminated with “Company”.
Bobby’s life was parallel to mine!
What an amazing analysis! I just discovered your channel and I'm binge watching your videos!
Was the bedroom "A Concept" for this video?
jhhone Yeah and the suit with loose tie
looks sad... like company...
Super awesome video!! Thanks!
Enjoyed your very insightful observations/reflections on this musical. (By the way, 4:23, just curious as to why you said Larry "Kept," since it's Larry Kert who'd replaced Dean Jones.)
Would love to hear your thoughts on the new London production!
Not the cigarette in the recording studio😂
do you like Raul Esparza
I love him
i hardly know him
I think Company in 2006-2007 season with Raul Esparza as the original lead is the best version of Company.
@@scorpioninpink I completely agree!
I saw just the version with Raul Esparza--- I listen to other Bobby… but the fact that I watched/listened him live, make Esparza my favourite Bobby..
I’d say the average Sondheim fan thinks of Into the Woods as their favorite of his works but for me, and perhaps because I come more from the rock and jazz album works of The Beatles or Miles and their ilk, Company is my favorite and was my gateway musical into Stephen and musicals after the early sixties. Still love it!
@@justsayn8929 that’s on my top five. Just recently got into that one and A Little Night Music.
My favourite musical, by far.
Coming to this vid in 2023, wondering when a sequel of this would come out
I’ve heard that Bobbie been described as the couples’ shared “pet bachelor”.
My opinion is the show has been “worked” a little too much over the years.
I dont get people who describe this musical as having "no plot". ???huh?? Yes, the musical has a plot. No, its not linear. No you dont really know what parts are imagined or are memories. Yes, certain scenes happen over and over again. But that doesnt mean there isnt a plot??
Theres conflict, issues, desires, character arcs, etc. It definitely has a plot, its just told very unconventionally.
I hate to say this, but Anthony Perkins never even made it to rehearsals. The authors basically wrote the show about him, but he turned the part down. Not only that, but Jones' replacent was Larry KERT. And I also hate to nitpick one more thing, but the original set design for the 1970 production had elevated platforms, and the 90s once just added onto that.
I saw the West End gender swapped version last week and I adored it! It's a really interesting take on it.
My favourite couple is Amy and paul
Andrew Ford The only thing is, I don't like the Amy in the 2006 production. If you've ever seen the 2011 version, it isn't ideal, but Katie Finneran knocks it out of the fucking park.
Favorite Sondheim show! Thank you for the review!
You're great. Hearing you talk so enthusiastic and smart about this topic makes me fall in love with you immediatly. ;-)
As the quintessential Bobby (or the female version being Bobbi) of my group I love this musical and plan on having a Company themed 35th birthday party next year
And now, of course, it's three different shows. The latest, brilliant, production in London makes total sense of Bobby as a vacuum, or as a plot device, by making him Bobbie (female), a real person, with real motivations.
How did the book change over time? The first version I saw was the Raul Esparza version. Then I saw the Neil Patrick Harris version. And I’ve heard the origninal sound cast and the Patti LuPone version. But it’s hard to know how the book changed.
Can you make a video about the new version of company with a woman playing Bobby
This shift in terms of Bobby as a character changes even more in the recent revivals in the West End and Broadway where Bobby is gender swapped and the focus is now much more on that character then even before
The 70s had the best musicals.
Well it is really ironic that while watching this video now, Bobby is now a woman and they've changed the concept yet once again. Lovely video. Thanks :)
If they ever make a movie version of this show. Andrew Garfield should play Bobby
Not Larry KEPT as reported here but Larry KERT who replaced Dean Jones shortly after the Broadway opening in the original production. See here: Larry Kert
accdg to IMDb: "Played role of Tony in original Broadway production of West Side Story (1957 - 1960) Replaced Dean Jones one month into the original run of Stephen Sondheim's "Company" in 1970. He then repeated the role in the London production. His Tony-nominated performance was so well-recieved [sic] that he recorded all his character's songs, but dubbed his vocals over the ones Jones had already recorded for the original cast album." RIP great actor.