Sweet Smell of Success is a 2002 Broadway musical based on the 1957 movie of the same name.  The musical tells the story of a powerful newspaper columnist, J.J. Hunsecker (a dramatization of New York columnist, radio and TV personality Walter Winchell) who uses his power, connections, and backhanded tricks to manipulate the gossip around New York City to maintain his status.  JJ guards his relationship with his sister Susan very highly, perhaps even sexually, and will stop at nothing to keep her around him.  Set in glamorous 1950’s New York, the musical features a jazz score that emphasizes the simultaneously film-noir atmosphere and edgy, biting characters.  The RCA 44 microphone reproduction served to manifest JJ's power on a pedestal and Sidney's constant yearning for inclusion.

In "The Column," we meet JJ Hunsecker and Sydney Falcone, a struggling press agent looking for a client.  JJ collects dirty gossip on everyone, from the President to the latest starlets, and everyone feeds JJ scandal, from J. Edgar Hoover and Senator Joe McCarthy down to a battalion of hungry press agents who attach their news to a client that JJ might plug. You’re no one if you’re not in JJ. You can become no one if JJ turns on you.  JJ has all of the power in New York City.

Sidney is introduced to the sounds and lights of the nightlife of New York City (in "Welcome to the Night"), he dreams of fulfilment and success ("At the Fountain," like Lana Turner).  This character journey was supported by sound effects and ambience throughout the show.

Claire Trevor School of the Arts
University of California - Irvine

Director:
Myrona Delaney

Musical Director:
Gary Busby

Scenic Design:
Vannessa Fusi-Hoblit

Costume Design:
Josephine Siu

Lighting Design:
Darrin Wade

Mix Engineer:
Benjamin Scheff

Photo Credit:
Paul Kennedy