Bravo Giovanni

Bravo Giovanni is a musical with a book by A. J. Russell, lyrics by Ronny Graham, and music by Milton Schafer. It is based upon Howard Shaw's 1959 novel, The Crime of Giovanni Venturi. The musical was conceived as a vehicle for opera star Cesare Siepi, and the story concerned a family-owned Italian restaurant's efforts to compete with a restaurant chain.[1]

Bravo Giovanni
Original Cast Recording
MusicMilton Schafer
LyricsRonny Graham
BookA. J. Russell
BasisThe Crime of Giovanni Venturi by Howard Shaw
Productions1962 Broadway

Background

After three previews, the Broadway production, directed by Stanley Prager and choreographed by Carol Haney, opened on May 19, 1962, at the Broadhurst Theatre, where it ran for 76 performances. The cast included Cesare Siepi, Michele Lee, David Opatoshu, George S. Irving, Maria Karnilova, Lainie Kazan, Larry Fuller, and Baayork Lee.

The show received Tony Award nominations for Best Composer and Lyricist, Best Choreography, and Best Conductor and musical director.

An original cast recording was released by Columbia Records.

Synopsis

Giovanni Venturi is the owner of a small, family-style trattoria in Rome. When a branch of the upscale Uriti restaurant chain opens up next door and threatens him with bankruptcy, his friend Amadeo suggests he tunnel from his basement to the Uriti basement kitchen, steal food from the dumbwaiter, and serve it in his place at reduced prices in order to stay competitive. Giovanni and his girlfriend Miranda successfully build the tunnel, and their efforts are profitable.

Song list

Awards and nominations

Original Broadway production
Year Award Category Nominee Result
1963 Tony Award Best Original Score Milton Schafer and Ronny Graham Nominated
Best Choreography Carol Haney Nominated
Best Conductor and Musical Director Anton Coppola Nominated

Notes
  • Bordman, Gerald (2001). American Musical Theater: A Chronicle. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0-19-513074-X
  • Shaw, Howard (1959). The Crime of Giovanni Venturi. New York: Henry Holt and Company.

References
  1. Bordman, 683
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