An associate professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, Joann Baney has a longstanding interest in theater. Joann Baney has participated in off-Broadway revivals with the St. Barts theater group, performing well-loved musicals such as Kiss Me, Kate and Damn Yankees.
Initially produced at the 46th Street Theatre in 1955, the latter show features lyrics and music by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross. It stands out as the only successful musical comedy to depict America’s past and is based on Douglass Wallop and George Abbott’s book titled The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant.
The story concerns middle-aged, happily married Washington Senators fan Joe, who signs a bargain with the devil for his soul in order for his hapless team to win the World Series. Suddenly, Joe becomes several years younger and gains magically enhanced athletic prowess that drives his team to victory. Comedic mishaps, including involvement with the seductive witch, Lola, ensue. The inevitable result is that Joe regains his soul and wife, and his beloved Senators fall just short once again. The musical was a smash hit and earned status as one of a select few to attain more than 1,000 performances.
Initially produced at the 46th Street Theatre in 1955, the latter show features lyrics and music by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross. It stands out as the only successful musical comedy to depict America’s past and is based on Douglass Wallop and George Abbott’s book titled The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant.
The story concerns middle-aged, happily married Washington Senators fan Joe, who signs a bargain with the devil for his soul in order for his hapless team to win the World Series. Suddenly, Joe becomes several years younger and gains magically enhanced athletic prowess that drives his team to victory. Comedic mishaps, including involvement with the seductive witch, Lola, ensue. The inevitable result is that Joe regains his soul and wife, and his beloved Senators fall just short once again. The musical was a smash hit and earned status as one of a select few to attain more than 1,000 performances.
