Babes on Broadway

 

The Backyard Musical series is considered a classic by many fans and critics of musicals. The series consists of the following films: Babes in Arms (1939), Strike Up the Band (1940), Babes on Broadway (1941), and Girl Crazy (1943). The film stars Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland as young performers who put on their own shows and performed impersonations. The films feature various songs and dances, as well as references and tributes to past theatrical legends.

 

The films referenced several theatrical legends, such as:

 

• Richard Mansfield, a British actor and manager who was famous for his roles in Shakespeare, Gilbert and Sullivan, and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

 

• Fay Templeton, an American actress and singer who starred in many Broadway musicals and operettas, such as H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, and Forty-five Minutes from Broadway.

 

Some of the songs were also influenced by World War II, such as, the 'Chin Up! Cheerio! Carry On!' song.

 

Judy Garland is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential musical stars of all time. She starred in many musical films, such as The Wizard of Oz, Meet Me in St. Louis, and A Star Is Born. She had a powerful and expressive voice and was known for her emotional and dramatic performances. 

 

The producer of the series was Arthur Freed. Freed later became one of the most successful producers of musicals in Hollywood history. 

 

• Arthur produced many classic musicals. He won two Oscars for Best Picture. He was nominated for eight more Oscars for his musicals, such as Singin’ in the Rain, The Band Wagon, and Bells Are Ringing.