Cinco Paul, the composer behind the new Broadway show ‘Schmigadoon!’, brings a lifelong love of musicals to the stage. Growing up with a mother who was a piano teacher, Paul was steeped in classic musical theater songs from an early age. He often pictured himself in roles from ‘Camelot’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’, and knew musicals such as ‘South Pacific’ and ‘My Fair Lady’ by heart.
Although Paul found success as a screenwriter, contributing to films like ‘Despicable Me’ and ‘The Secret Life of Pets’, he maintained an affinity for musical theater. In his 30s, he imagined a show inspired by the 1947 musical ‘Brigadoon’, featuring two outsiders who find themselves in a village where life imitates a musical production. This concept eventually evolved into ‘Schmigadoon!’, the 2021 AppleTV+ series focused on a couple stuck in a whimsical town filled with musical moments.
Now adapted for the stage at the Nederlander Theater in Manhattan, ‘Schmigadoon!’ retains its satirical edge while paying tribute to classic musicals. Elisabeth Vincentelli of The New York Times described it as both affectionate and sharp. Each song in the production nods to one or more classic shows, creating a rich tapestry for musical theater enthusiasts.
Paul, now 61, reassures that even audience members unfamiliar with musical references will enjoy the humor and story. He believes the comedy resonates broadly, yet offers additional layers of enjoyment for those familiar with classic elements, such as lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein.