On April 28, BU students had the opportunity to discuss the live arts with Broadway composer John Bell Jr., who has conducted My Fair Lady, Fiddler on the Roof, On the Town, and An American in Paris on the Great White Way. As Associate Music Director, he’s done over 12 shows with the acclaimed New York City Center Encores! Series, including Brigadoon, Me and My Girl, Lady Be Good, The New Yorkers, Zorba, and many more.
John is currently the music director of the national tour of My Fair Lady (it’s currently suspended). He joked that it not for COVID-19, he would have been in Chicago rehearsing and performing the show but instead was happy and able to meet with students.
During the session, John answered questions and provided students with a unique insider’s perspective on Broadway. He also gave a historical overview of American musicals and explained how they have addressed various societal themes over time.
“John Bell offered great insights into what it’s like to work on major musicals both on and off Broadway as well as the historical contribution the art form has made to political discussions,” says Glenn Korman (KHC, Pardee’20), summarizing the evening. “It was a refreshing break from quarantine life and enjoyable night!”
Professor of the Practice of International Relations John D. Woodward Jr., who is the faculty-in-residence at BU’s Kilachand Honors College, hosted the event.