A Connecticut Yankee (Fan) in King Arthur’s Court
Very Loosely Based on the Novel by Mark Twain.
Dr. Henrietta “Hank” Morgan and fellow astrophysicists Dr. Matt Sullivan have just finished gathering critical new data from a total eclipse when they realize they’re in time to stream the ballgame. But Hank, a devoted Yankees fan, is accidentally knocked unconscious, and when she wakes, she can’t believe where (or when!) she is. Suspicious peasants surround her, and Sir Kay of the Round Table challenges her to a duel. Egocentric King Arthur arrives and orders Hank burned at the stake, but luckily he’s dissuaded by Merlin, the king’s wizard who is actually a time-traveling woman in disguise. Instead, they will have a contest and Hank chooses—baseball! Of course, conniving Morgana and her evil soldiers add more intrigue. Upbeat songs such as the humorous “It’s Unpleasant Being a Peasant,” and Arthur’s “It’s Good to Be the King” add plenty of laughs, and Merlin’s “Anywhere, Anywhen” explains her mission of traveling through space to make sure the world is a happy place. “Do the King Arthur” dance has everyone on stage move and groove. “Follow Your Star” and “Let’s All Travel Through Time” close the show on upbeat notes.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
What inspired you to write this musical?
As a child, I remember seeing an animated version of "Connecticut Yankee" on television (The one with Orson Bean as the voice of Hank). The adaptation modified the original 1880s story by having Hank Morgan start out in the 1970s. I decided to modify it even further by having Hank be a 21st Century female astrophysicist. I was also inspired by the Monty Python interpretation of the world of King Arthur and thought it would be fun to put the two together.
What's your favorite part or line in the musical? Why?
My favorite moment is the song “It’s Good to be The King.” The title is an homage to Mel Brooks, one of my comedy heroes. A disco king and dancing peasants were a big hit with the premiere audience. This song was fun from the first rehearsal to the last performance.
Where did the characters come from? Are they based on people you know?
Many of the characters are based upon those found in Twain’s book and in Arthurian legends. I enjoy twisting things around a bit and making them more fun. Merlin is the villain in Twain’s original. In my musical, Merlin plays a much more positive role in the story.
What did you try to achieve with this musical?
My aim was to put a fun, contemporary twist on a classic American novel. Audiences at our workshop performances had a great time and particularly enjoyed the anachronistic humor.
Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
I think Mark Twain would approve of this adaptation of his work.