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About the Show

A classic musical based on the play by Edward Knoblock.

Story: Hajj the beggar escapes the clutches of a vengeful bandit, drowns the evil Wazir of Police, catches the eye of the Wazir's voluptuous wife, serves as Emir of Baghdad, and sees his daughter wed to the handsome Caliph.

Cast and Creative Team

Composer: George Forrest, Alexander Borodin
Lyricist: George Forrest, Robert Wright
Librettist: Charles Lederer, Luther Davis

Broadway Premiere
Theatre: Ziegfeld Theatre
Opening Night: Dec 3, 1953
Total Performances: 583
Original Cast: Alfred Drake, Henry Calvin, Joan Diener, Richard Kiley, Doretta Morrow
Director: Albert Marre
Choreographer: Jack Cole
Producer: Charles Lederer
Musical Director: Louis Adrian
Orchestrations: Arthur Kay
Scenic and Costume Design: Lemuel Ayers
Lighting Design: Peggy Clark