1. “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” Broadway Debut: When Did It Happen?
The Origins of the Play
“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” is a musical comedy that was first performed on Broadway in 1978. The play was based on a true story about a brothel called the Chicken Ranch, which operated in La Grange, Texas from the early 1900s until it was closed down by the authorities in 1973. The play was written by Larry L. King and Peter Masterson, with music and lyrics by Carol Hall.
The Broadway Debut
“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” premiered on Broadway at the 46th Street Theatre (now known as the Richard Rodgers Theatre) on June 19, 1978. The production was directed by Peter Masterson and Tommy Tune, and starred Carlin Glynn as Miss Mona Stangley, the madam of the Chicken Ranch, and Henderson Forsythe as Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd.
The play received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, and ran for over four years on Broadway before closing on March 27, 1982. During its run, it won two Tony Awards for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (Charles Durning) and Best Choreography (Tommy Tune).
List of Original Cast Members:
- Carlin Glynn as Miss Mona Stangley
- Henderson Forsythe as Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd
- Jay Garner as Melvin P. Thorpe
- Terri White as Jewel
- Delores Hall as Jewel’s friend
- Barry Corbin as C.J. Scruggs
- Charles Durning as Governor
2. What Inspired the Storyline of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”?
The True Story of the Chicken Ranch
“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” was inspired by the true story of a brothel called the Chicken Ranch, which operated in La Grange, Texas for over 60 years. The brothel was run by Miss Edna Milton and her successor Miss Jessie Williams, who were known for running a clean and well-managed establishment.
However, in 1973, a crusading Houston television reporter named Marvin Zindler launched an investigation into the Chicken Ranch. He claimed that the brothel was operating illegally and that it was a hotbed of vice and corruption. Zindler’s reports led to a statewide crackdown on prostitution, and eventually resulted in the closure of the Chicken Ranch.
The Play’s Development
Larry L. King, a journalist and author from Texas, wrote an article about the closing of the Chicken Ranch for Playboy magazine in 1974. The article caught the attention of Peter Masterson, a Broadway actor and director who had grown up near La Grange. Masterson approached King about turning his article into a play.
Together with Carol Hall (who had previously worked with Masterson on another musical), they began developing “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”. The play premiered at the Actors Theatre of Louisville in Kentucky before moving to Broadway.
3. Who Starred in the 1982 Film Adaptation of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”?
The Film Adaptation
In 1982, “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” was adapted into a film directed by Colin Higgins. The film starred Burt Reynolds as Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd and Dolly Parton as Miss Mona Stangley, the madam of the Chicken Ranch. The film also featured a star-studded cast, including Dom DeLuise, Charles Durning, Jim Nabors, and Lois Nettleton.
The Cast of the Film
The casting of Burt Reynolds and Dolly Parton in the lead roles was seen as a major coup for the film. Both actors were at the height of their popularity at the time and brought a lot of star power to the project. Reynolds had previously worked with director Colin Higgins on “Foul Play” (1978), while Parton was making her feature film debut.
The supporting cast also featured several well-known actors, including Charles Durning as Governor, Dom DeLuise as Melvin P. Thorpe (a character based on real-life reporter Marvin Zindler), and Jim Nabors as Deputy Fred.
List of Main Cast Members:
- Burt Reynolds as Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd
- Dolly Parton as Miss Mona Stangley
- Dom DeLuise as Melvin P. Thorpe
- Charles Durning as Governor
- Jim Nabors as Deputy Fred
- Lois Nettleton as Dulcie Mae
- Teresa Merritt as Jewel
4. How Did Audiences and Critics React to “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” on Broadway?
Critical Reception
“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” was generally well-received by critics when it premiered on Broadway in 1978. The play’s blend of humor, music, and social commentary was praised, as were the performances of Carlin Glynn and Henderson Forsythe in the lead roles.
Quotes from Reviews:
- “A bouncy, tuneful, hilarious production” – New York Daily News
- “A rollicking good time” – The New York Times
- “As entertaining a musical comedy as Broadway has seen in some time” – Variety
Audience Response
Audiences also responded positively to “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, with many praising the play’s catchy songs and energetic dance numbers. The play’s popularity led to multiple national tours and international productions.
Box Office Numbers:
- The original Broadway production ran for 1,584 performances, grossing over $90 million (adjusted for inflation)
- The national tour grossed over $100 million (adjusted for inflation)
5. The Impact of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” on Popular Culture and Representation of Sex Work
Cultural Significance
“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” has had a lasting impact on popular culture since its debut in 1978. The play’s catchy songs, memorable characters, and irreverent humor have made it a beloved classic among theater fans. The film adaptation starring Burt Reynolds and Dolly Parton has also become a cult favorite.
In addition to its entertainment value, “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” has been praised for its representation of sex work. While the play does not condone prostitution or glorify the Chicken Ranch, it does present the women who worked there as complex individuals with their own stories and struggles.
Legacy and Influence
“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” has inspired numerous adaptations and tributes over the years. In 2011, a revival of the play was staged on Broadway, featuring new songs and updated references. The play has also been adapted into a television movie and a stage production in London’s West End.
The play’s influence can be seen in other works of popular culture as well. The hit musical “Chicago” (which premiered on Broadway in 1975) shares many similarities with “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, including its use of satire and its exploration of themes related to sex work.
Works Inspired by “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”:
- “Whoreson” by Donald Goines (novel)
- “Hustling” (1975) starring Lee Remick (film)
- “The Life” (1997) by Cy Coleman, Ira Gasman, and David Newman (musical)
In conclusion, “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” is a classic musical that tells the story of a brothel’s fight for survival against political opposition. Despite its controversial subject matter, it remains a beloved piece of American theater with memorable songs and characters.
