‘Merrily We Roll Along,’ From Flop To Hit

This Fresh Air episode features Terry Gross interviewing Jonathan Groff, who starred in the 2023 Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's "Merrily We Roll Along," and Maria Friedman, the director of the revival. They discuss the musical's journey, its initial failure, and its eventual success. The conversation explores Sondheim's creative process, the nuances of the music, and the emotional depth of the characters. Groff and Friedman share insights into their roles, the challenges of performing Sondheim's work, and the unique experience of the show's reverse chronological storytelling. They also reflect on Sondheim's influence and legacy, with musical excerpts interspersed throughout the interview.