At this point, it’s safe to say most of us have watched, re-watched and continuously binge-watched Hamilton since it’s arrival on Disney+ in July. And with most Americans staying home for Labor Day this year, finding ways to celebrate the holiday safely is key. One great way, especially for the kids, would be watching U.S.A themed musicals. With a variety of options available from classics to present day, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
In honor of Labor Day, here are some U.S.A themed musicals and specials to consider watching:
Meet Me In St. Louis (1944)
Covering the “Norman Rockwell” or early 1900’s period, Meet Me In St. Louis is the most iconic musical of this group. Starring Judy Garland, this was also Margaret O’Brien’s first major acting role for MGM. The film’s themes include family, friends, first loves, life lessons, hometown pride and much more. It’s one of the quintessential feel good films of all time and one that people of all ages can enjoy together.
Iconic songs to look out for in this film include “The Trolley Song” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” both sung by Garland.
Similar options to also consider: Easter Parade (1948,) On Moonlight Bay (1951) and its sequel By The Light Of The Silvery Moon (1953)
On The Town (1949)
Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra are the two key players in musicals about the Navy, beginning with their co-starring in Anchors Aweigh in 1945. On The Town features not only a love for our boys in uniform but also for New York City, during the performance of “New York, New York” when the boys first dock. This film is a good reminder that even on a short schedule, ANYTHING can happen if you put your mind to it.
Songs to look out for include: “Prehistoric Man,” “Come Up To My Place,” and “On The Town”
Similar options to also consider: Born To Dance (1936) and Follow The Fleet (1936)
Funny Girl (1968)
Funny Girl actually covers three different types of musicals: biography, drama, and rise to fame. Not only was this Barbra Streisand’s first starring role, she also won her first Oscar (tying with Katharine Hepburn in 1969) for her performance as American actress Fanny Brice. Streisand was also in the stage version of Funny Face and went on to star in the 1975 sequel, Funny Lady. Success and love play huge factors in this film and certainly make things complicated for Fanny along the way.
Songs to look out for include: “I’m The Greatest Star,” “People,” “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” and “My Man”
Similar option to also consider: “Gypsy” (1962)
TCM’s End Of Summer Tour
For a more concert like experience, Turner Classic Movies aired their “End Of Summer Tour,” all throughout Labor Day Weekend. This series of 28 concert movies and specials ranged from Elvis performing in Las Vegas to Jimmy Hendrix in Monterey, Bette Midler in Pasadena and even Woodstock. With concerts and live events still on hold for the time being, this could be a unique look into a well-missed pastime.
For more information, visit the official TCM website.
Wishing everyone a safe Labor Day!
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