Page to Stage: The Story Behind the Superman Musical
On World Superman Day, fans of the Man of Steel celebrate the iconic superhero’s legacy in comics, film, television, and more. But few may know that Superman also soared across the stage in a 1966 Broadway musical, “It’s a Bird… It’s a Plane… It’s Superman!” Here’s the story behind this theatrical production that brought the beloved character to life in a whole new way.
The musical was based on the Superman comics created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, and it was produced by Harold Prince and directed by Jack Donohue. The score was composed by Charles Strouse and Lee Adams, who had previously worked on the hit musical “Bye Bye Birdie.”
The plot of “It’s a Bird… It’s a Plane… It’s Superman!” featured the Man of Steel facing off against his arch-nemesis, Dr. Abner Sedgwick, who sought to prove that he was the world’s greatest scientist by destroying the superhero. Meanwhile, Clark Kent struggled with his secret identity and his feelings for Lois Lane.
The musical premiered at the Alvin Theatre (now known as the Neil Simon Theatre) on March 29, 1966. Bob Holiday starred as Superman/Clark Kent, and Patricia Marand played Lois Lane. The show received mixed reviews, with some critics praising the energetic performances and catchy songs, while others found the storyline weak and the production over-the-top.
Despite its mixed reception, “It’s a Bird… It’s a Plane… It’s Superman!” ran for 129 performances before closing on July 17, 1966. The show has since gained a cult following, with fans appreciating its campy, retro charm and catchy tunes such as “You’ve Got Possibilities” and “The Woman for the Man.”
The musical has been revived several times over the years, including a 1975 TV adaptation starring David Wilson and Lesley Ann Warren, as well as a 2013 concert version featuring Broadway stars like Cheyenne Jackson and Jenny Powers.
On World Superman Day, fans can look back at the Man of Steel’s journey from the pages of comic books to the bright lights of Broadway with “It’s a Bird… It’s a Plane… It’s Superman!” This musical may not have been a critical success, but it brought the beloved superhero to life in a way that captured the imagination of audiences and remains a beloved part of Superman’s legacy today.
As fans celebrate World Superman Day, let’s remember and honour all the different ways that Superman has inspired and entertained us over the years, from comics to film to theater and beyond. Happy World Superman Day!
