A score with a long life
The Fantasticks is a musical by composer Harvey Schmidt and book-and-lyric writer Tom Jones. Its best-known song, “Try to Remember,” has traveled far beyond the stage and is closely associated with the show. Other familiar numbers from the original score include “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” “Much More,” “I Can See It,” and “They Were You.”
The Broadway production is a new interpretation of the musical, with Jones revising his own book and lyrics and Christopher Gattelli directing and choreographing. Song arrangements, order, and performance details may differ from earlier productions, so regard lists from previous versions as background rather than a guaranteed set list.
What the songs do in the story
The score moves between yearning, playful persuasion, and reflection. Early songs help establish the young characters’ desires and the parents’ plan; later moments test the romantic picture the characters have built. The songs function as part of a fable about love meeting ordinary experience.
A useful way to listen is to notice the contrast between intimate solo moments and theatrical ensemble scenes. The show’s simple premise gives the music room to carry emotional shifts without requiring a large spectacle.
Explore the Broadway production
The production’s current cast and music details are maintained by official show sources. This guide does not reproduce lyrics; use licensed recordings or the show itself to hear the songs.
See The Fantasticks Broadway tickets and schedule for current listings and the venue guide.
- Broadway League production listing ↗
- Music Theatre International show history ↗
- Broadway.com cast and creative credits ↗
Production schedules and credits can change. Check official sources for current information.