The First
Musical - Original
Martin Beck Theatre
Data not verified
- First Preview: October 19, 1981
- Opening Date: November 17, 1981
- Closing Date: December 12, 1981
- Previews: 33
- Performances: 37
Lyrics: Martin Charnin
Music: Bob Brush
Book: Joel Siegel
Synopsis
The story of Jackie Robinson, who became the first African-American to play baseball in the major leagues when he was drafted by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, is musicalized by Bob Brush, Martin Charnin and Joel Siegel.
Opening Night Cast
 |
David Alan Grier | Jackie Robinson |
| Red Barber | Red Barber | |
| Steven Bland | Equipment Manager Cuban Reporter Passenger 3rd Baseman Fan |
|
| Steven Boockvor | Swanee Rivers |
Opening Night Production Credits
| Joel Siegel | Book | |
| Bob Brush | Music | |
 |
Martin Charnin | Lyrics |
|
Martin Charnin | Director |
| Alan Johnson | Choreographer | |
| David Chapman | Scenic Design |
Shows That Opened That Season: 1981 - 1982
"Master Harold"...and the Boys.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Mass Appeal
A Talent for Murder
Awards
Drama Desk Award
| Year | Category | Name | Winner/Nominee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 | Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical | Lonette McKee | Nominee |
| 1982 | Outstanding Set Design | David Chapman | Nominee |
Theatre World
| Year | Category | Name | Winner/Nominee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 | Theatre World Award | David Alan Grier | Winner |
Tony Award
| Year | Category | Name | Winner/Nominee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 | Book of a Musical | Joel Siegel
Martin Charnin |
Nominee |
| 1982 | Direction of a Musical | Martin Charnin | Nominee |
| 1982 | Featured Actor in a Musical | David Alan Grier | Nominee |
PLAYBILL BRIEF ENCOUNTER With Sherie Rene Scott; The Broadway Star Heads to 54 Below 
John Herrera, Natalie Toro, Joseph Morales Star in Utah Premiere of In the Heights, Starting Sept. 14 
ONSTAGE & BACKSTAGE: Close-Up at Closer Than Ever, Plus Megan Mullally, Kristine Zbornik 
