Barry Manilow’s “Harmony” unfurls a forgotten chapter of history through the rise of the Comedian Harmonists, a German sextet navigating fame during Hitler’s ascent.
The musical introduces a catchy, traditional score that stands out in today’s Broadway landscape, offering a refreshing break from prevailing pop-centric trends.
At the heart of the narrative lies the poignant exploration of anti-Semitism and the pursuit of peaceful coexistence, resonating powerfully in our contemporary milieu.
Chip Zien’s portrayal of Rabbi, reflecting on his life within the group, crackles with intensity, complemented by a talented ensemble making their Broadway debuts.
View this post on Instagram
However, despite the musical’s thematic resonance and captivating melodies, its components struggle to meld seamlessly.
Structural flaws, magnified by Broadway’s grandeur, lead to pacing issues that diminish Act One’s charm while Act Two delivers a more compelling impact.
The narrative swiftly propels the Harmonists into stardom, skipping over lighter moments before plunging into the harsh realities of Hitler’s regime.
As the group grapples with Nazi sponsorship and pervasive anti-Semitic sentiments, their defiance through satirical songs sparks palpable tension.
The personal lives of Rabbi and Chopin’s wives add layers, enhancing the thematic depth of the story.
Although the Harmonists’ upbeat songs are enjoyable, Manilow’s ballads and duets—particularly the eerie “Where You Go” and the smooth “In This World,” which highlight the artists’ vocal abilities—hit a deep chord.
Despite early concerns that the narrator’s role would impede engagement, Zien’s climactic “Threnody,” an emotional crescendo that ends in forgiveness, stands as the musical’s high point.
“Harmony” has trouble bringing its parts together harmoniously, but it still has a lot to offer that is worthwhile.
There is always something meaningful to listen to in the midst of discord, as audiences are reminded by the inspiring story of artists overcoming adversity.
“Harmony” struggles with pacing and structural issues, but it still manages to evoke strong feelings thanks to its excellent cast and captivating historical setting.
Although the composition is not perfect, its thematic significance and exceptional performances make it a worthwhile piece that reflects the perseverance of artists in the face of a discordant society.
Review: Barry Manilow’s “Harmony” is an admirable but busy musical about the Comedian Harmonists, a German vocal sextet with Jewish members whose success was cut short by the Nazis’ rise
— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) November 14, 2023
“Harmony”- The Untold Saga of Comedian Harmonists
“Harmony,” that has been touring the US for over thirty years, chronicles the tale of the Comedian Harmonists, a well-known German humorist band from the 1920s that was all but forgotten after Hitler came to power.
Along with hanging out with Albert Einstein, Josephine Baker, and Marlene Dietrich, the group performed at Carnegie Hall.
They produced seven films, sold millions of records, and went on global tours. Out of the six members, three identified as Jewish or of Jewish descent, and the remaining three as non-Jews.
Danny Kornfeld plays Josef, dubbed Rabbi because he abandoned the Torah to embark on a tour.
Accompanying him are Eric Peters, a bloodthirsty surgeon, Blake Roman, an opera bassist, Sean Bell, a Bulgarian, Steven Telsey, and Zal Owen, an actor.
