Anyone Can Whistle
Anyone Can Whistle, an absurdist social satire about insanity and conformity (among a dozen other things) is probably the bravest show that Stephen Sondheim wrote, at least until Assassins. A legendary cult show, this wacky, intelligent, highly unconventional musical points ahead to Stephen Sondheim's groundbreaking work in the 1970s, even as it keeps a foot firmly rooted in musical theatre's "golden age."
Anyone Can Whistle tells the story of a corrupt mayoress who fakes a miracle to revitalize her bankrupt town (through the resulting pilgrim trade) and the ill-fated romance between the rational nurse, out to expose the fraud, and the easygoing doctor who is determined to enjoy the chaos that it brings. In the end, the show delivers a poignant message about the importance of the individual in a conformist society – but not before aiming its still-relevant barbs at government, religion, science and anything else that stands in its way!
With its circus-like atmosphere, Anyone Can Whistle features plenty of memorable, lovably cartoonish roles of all sizes. The dazzling, melodic Broadway-style score overflows with the youthful energy of experimentation, consisting of one showstopper after another, including two extensive ballets that provide opportunities for some inspired choreography.
Show Essentials
Songs
Opening - Act 1
Me And My Town
Miracle Song
There Won't Be Trumpets
Interrogation Part I--Simple
Interrogation Part II
Interrogation Part III
Interrogation Part IV
Interrogation Part V
Interrogation Part VI
A-1 March/Parade In Town
Come Play Wiz Me
Anyone Can Whistle
I've Got You To Lean On
Everybody Says Don't
See What It Gets You
Cora's Chase
With So Little To Be Sure Of
Cost Estimator
Estimate the approximate cost of your licensing fees by providing a few details about your production.
Similar Shows
Community Marketplace
Explore
Media
Resources
No matter where you are on your theatrical journey, our innovative production resources will enhance your show experience!
Questions & Answers
In referring to the provided materials, will there be full backing tracks or just the piano score?
Answer this QuestionConcert Selections for Anyone Can Whistle
MTI is pleased to provide the pre-approved rental materials of select songs for your symphonic concert performance. Please note, MTI is unable to grant the necessary Performance Rights with this material rental. The Performance Rights needed must be obtained separately through the individual song’s respective small rights agency such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. Please email concerts@mtishows.com with any questions.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
| Part Name | Doubling | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| PIANO/CONDUCTOR SCORE | 2 | |
| REED 1 | Flute | 1 |
| REED 2 | Clarinet | 1 |
| REED 3 | Flute | 1 |
| REED 4 | Bass Clarinet | 1 |
| REED 5 | Clarinet | 1 |
| HORN 1 & 2 | 2 | |
| TRUMPET 1 & 2 | 2 | |
| TRUMPET 3 | 1 | |
| TROMBONE 1 | 1 | |
| TROMBONE 2 | 1 | |
| PERCUSSION 1 & 2 | Timpani, Triangle | 2 |
| ACCORDION | 1 | |
| CELLO A | 2 | |
| CELLO B | 2 | |
| CELLO C | 2 | |
| BASS | 5 |
Please Note: In some instances (i.e. Reeds, Percussion, etc.), additional copies of parts may be provided, in the event you wish to split out the doublings to multiple players.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.
A show extraction is taken directly from the licensed show materials. No edits have been made to the song.