Do You Find ANNIE GET YOUR GUN a Tad Sexist?

I mean, look at the end of the show: in order to win Frank back and continue their romantic relationship, Annie has to pretend to lose a shooting match to Frank so his all-powerful male ego isn't damaged.

In other words, Frank is ONLY interested in Annie if he can "prove" that he is the dominant partner in the relationship.

Does that come off as sexist to you, or do you think its just indicative of the show's time period [late 19th Century]?

---

dididada, what about "re-tooling" it and modifying the ending for Modern Audiences?

Do you think that's an idea worth considering?

(I mean, Annie could WIN and Frank could still realize how much he loves her--even if she is the "better" shot.)

---

Yes...that is how it was back in the day, so of course the show will be...

---

BT11,

But as I posted earlier, do you think a "re-tool" might be in order?

OTHER musicals that are revived remove potentially sexist themes and ideas.

Why, when HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING was revived the song "Cinderella, Darling" was dropped because it would be deemed sexist by present-day audiences.

---

Yep, Jacob, I'm sure.

The original 1962 production had as its Act II Opening Number "Cinderella, Darling" in which Rosemary and the other secretaries fantasize about being the wife of a wealthy executive in New Rochelle.

The 1995 revival dropped "Cinderella, Darling" and inserted in that spot a reprise of the song "How to Succeed" with new lyrics demonstrating that women could succeed in the business world as well.

(The reprise is on the revival CD--you may want to check it out. I think the new lyrics are QUITE clever.)

---

stop over analyzing everything....its a mindless musical

JoizyActor,

Unfortunately, I have never seen the Bernadette Peters revival, but that is most definitely a change from the original Ethel Merman production:

[Annie asks her friend Chief Sitting Bull on what to do about upcoming match with Frank if she wants Frank back]:

Sitting Bull: Win Match--Lose Frank. Lose Match--Win Frank.


But I'm VERY glad to hear there is now a revised, IMO, more "correct" version out there now!


P.S. Yankeefan, I thought discussing theater was the primary purpose of this Message Board. I'm sorry you and I aren't on the same page regarding its existence.

---

Yes, suzycat.

And that's taking the advice from another WOMAN! (Rizzo)


What about BYE BYE BIRDIE? Hugo walks out on Kim when she refuses to "back out" of one innocent kiss with Conrad Birdie, a man she will never see again!

Hugo and Kim reconcile ONLY when she agrees to let HIM manage their relationship in the future.

---

Timote,

I think it depends on whether or not you're looking at the stage or screen version of GREASE, but I'm thinkin' Danny's attempts to change (join the track team, etc.) PALE next to Sandy's attempts to change (totally change her hairstyle, makeup, walk, language--and oh my gosh!--TAKE UP SMOKING!) to win Danny.

Also, the reprise of "Look At Me, I'm Sandra Dee" clearly states Sandy will do ANYTHING to get "her man."


And while we're on topic, what about MY FAIR LADY? Eliza Doolittle comes home at the end not on HER terms--but reconciled to spend her life with Henry Higgins THE WAY HE IS WITHOUT CHANGING HIM.

---

As I stated, bb87, I didn't see it, but from Joizy Actor's description it sounds non-sexist (especially compared to the original version with Ethel Merman.)

Comments from anyone who saw the Bernadette Peters revival on Broadway?

---

VERY interesting approach, theatreguy.

Was that your own invention, or is that how you were directed to play it?

---

UH-Oh, Mr Roxy, I think we're opening up a WHOLE 'NOTHER CAN OF WORMS HERE. . .

---

Yes, bb17, and what about Kate's song in KISS ME, KATE--"I Am Ashamed Women Are So Simple"?


NOT exactly an anthem for sexual equality!


And how about FIDDLER ON THE ROOF?


Hodel changes from a simple peasant girl to a political activist to please HER man, Perchik!

---