The Ultimate Guide to Finian’s Rainbow
Finian’s Rainbow is a beloved musical that masterfully combines Irish folklore, whimsical fantasy, and biting social commentary. First gracing the Broadway stage in 1947, it became a trailblazing production that tackled important issues like racism and economic inequality while delivering a heartwarming tale of hope and love. The 1968 film adaptation, directed by a young Francis Ford Coppola, brought the story to a new audience, featuring Fred Astaire in his final musical role and Petula Clark in her Hollywood debut.
Was Finian’s Rainbow Fred Astaire’s Last Movie?
Fred Astaire’s illustrious career in musicals spanned decades, earning him the reputation as one of the greatest performers in cinematic history. Finian’s Rainbow marked the end of this remarkable chapter. In the film, Astaire portrays Finian McLonergan, a mischievous yet endearing Irishman, delivering a performance that balances humour, warmth, and grace.
After Finian’s Rainbow, Astaire transitioned to dramatic roles in films such as The Towering Inferno (1974), which earned him an Academy Award nomination. He briefly revisited his dancing roots in That’s Entertainment, Part II (1976), sharing a nostalgic duet with Gene Kelly. Despite these appearances, Finian’s Rainbow remains his last major contribution to the musical genre, making it a pivotal moment in his storied career.
What Is the Premise of Finian’s Rainbow?
At its core, Finian’s Rainbow is a fantastical tale with profound social underpinnings. The story follows Finian McLonergan and his daughter Sharon, who leave Ireland for Rainbow Valley, USA, carrying a stolen pot of gold. Finian is convinced that the fertile soil of the valley will amplify the gold’s magical powers, securing their financial future.
Their arrival disrupts the peaceful, racially integrated community, which is already contending with the prejudiced policies of Senator Rawkins. Meanwhile, Og the leprechaun, whose gold Finian has taken, travels to America to retrieve his treasure, setting off a chain of magical events. These misadventures lead to transformations, revelations, and moments of profound growth for the characters, culminating in a celebration of love and equality.
A Look at the Stage Musical
Broadway Debut
The stage production of Finian’s Rainbow premiered at the 46th Street Theatre in 1947, with music by Burton Lane and lyrics by E.Y. Harburg. Its combination of fantastical storytelling and political satire resonated with audiences, earning it critical acclaim and a strong run of 725 performances.
Iconic Songs
The musical’s score is a treasure trove of unforgettable melodies, each contributing to its emotional depth and narrative charm. Here is a closer look at the song list:
1.“This Time of the Year” – A jubilant opening number celebrating renewal.
2.“How Are Things in Glocca Morra?” – A wistful ballad reflecting Sharon’s longing for Ireland.
3.“Look to the Rainbow” – A hopeful anthem symbolizing dreams and aspirations.
4.“If This Isn’t Love” – A joyful declaration of newfound romance.
5.“Something Sort of Grandish” – A humorous and tender duet between Og and his love interest.
6.“Old Devil Moon” – A jazzy love song that remains one of the musical’s most enduring hits.
7.“When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love” – A comedic lament from Og about his romantic impulses.
8.“Necessity” – A spirited commentary on human needs and desires.
9.“The Begat” – A satirical number poking fun at human lineage and progress.
10.“That Great Come-and-Get-It Day” – A rousing finale celebrating community and justice.
The combination of Lane’s melodies and Harburg’s witty, poignant lyrics ensures that these songs continue to resonate with audiences and performers alike.
Social Commentary in Finian’s Rainbow
Finian’s Rainbow was groundbreaking for its time, addressing issues like racism and economic inequality in a way that was both accessible and impactful. The transformation of Senator Rawkins into a Black man forced him to experience life from a different perspective, providing a satirical yet powerful critique of bigotry.
The musical’s commitment to tackling such themes made it a bold production in post-World War II America. Its revival in 2009, during a period of renewed social awareness, highlighted the timelessness of its messages and the relevance of its humour and heart.
Where Was Finian’s Rainbow Filmed?
The 1968 film adaptation brought the magic of Rainbow Valley to life with a mix of stunning real-world locations and imaginative studio sets:
•Sierra Railroad, California: The pastoral beauty of this location was perfect for depicting Rainbow Valley’s idyllic charm. The rolling hills and lush landscapes added authenticity to the setting.
•Warner Bros. Backlot: Over nine acres were transformed into the vibrant small town of Rainbow Valley, complete with a schoolhouse, general store, and narrow-gauge railway. This meticulous attention to detail enriched the film’s fairy-tale atmosphere.
The visual splendour of these locations enhanced the story’s fantastical elements, immersing audiences in its magical world.
Is Finian’s Rainbow Irish?
Absolutely. Finian’s Rainbow is steeped in Irish folklore and traditions, with its protagonist, Finian McLonergan, embodying the charm and resourcefulness often associated with Irish culture. The inclusion of a leprechaun and a magical pot of gold further ties the story to Ireland’s rich mythological heritage.
Although the setting transitions to America, the narrative retains its Irish essence, blending themes of hope, resilience, and community with broader social issues. This fusion has contributed to the story’s enduring appeal across cultures.
Fascinating Facts About Finian’s Rainbow
- Francis Ford Coppola’s Early Vision: The film marked an early directorial effort for Coppola, who would later become one of Hollywood’s most celebrated filmmakers with works like The Godfather trilogy.
- Petula Clark’s Hollywood Breakthrough: Clark’s portrayal of Sharon McLonergan showcased her vocal and acting talents, making her a standout in the cast.
- Fred Astaire’s Legacy: Astaire initially hesitated to take the role but ultimately embraced it, delivering a performance that paid homage to his illustrious career in musicals.
- Tommy Steele’s Comedic Brilliance: Steele’s portrayal of Og added a layer of humour and heart, making the leprechaun an unforgettable character.
- Cultural Impact: The musical’s satirical approach to addressing societal flaws helped pave the way for future productions that combined entertainment with social critique.
Erewash Musical Society’s Production of Finian’s Rainbow
The Erewash Musical Society (EMS) in Derbyshire has a long history of bringing classic musicals to life. Their productions of Finian’s Rainbow in 1972 and 1994 highlighted the timelessness of its story and themes.
EMS is known for its dedication to fostering local talent and creating engaging performances. Their renditions of Finian’s Rainbow captured the humour, heart, and social commentary that made the musical so special.
The Legacy of Finian’s Rainbow
Finian’s Rainbow continues to hold a special place in the world of musical theatre and film. Its fearless exploration of societal issues, combined with its enchanting music and storytelling, ensures its relevance for modern audiences.
The film adaptation introduced the story to a new generation, while stage revivals have kept its spirit alive in the theatre. The musical’s themes of love, justice, and community resonate as strongly today as they did over 70 years ago.
For fans of Fred Astaire, the film offers a poignant farewell to his musical career, while for theatre enthusiasts, it remains a testament to the power of art to inspire and provoke thought.
Finian’s Rainbow is much more than a whimsical tale of leprechauns and magical gold—it’s a bold, thought-provoking work that has stood the test of time. Its journey from Broadway to Hollywood and local theatre groups like Erewash Musical Society showcases its universal appeal and timeless themes.
With its Irish roots, iconic songs, and meaningful social messages, Finian’s Rainbow continues to inspire and delight audiences, proving that its pot of gold truly lies in its enduring legacy.
