The settings for Music Man are of the main street of River City, the interiors of the Library and Gymnasium, and Mrs Paroo's house and verandah (Indoors and out), and of the park with a footbridge, where courting couples meet. Quite a challenge for set designer and stage crew, with multiple changes, especially if presented in a small community hall with limited flying facilities. Depending on available space there is also the arrival of the Wells Fargo wagon at the end of Act One, bringing a plethora of brass band instruments for the children. Of course it is possible to dispense with a practical wagon, and have parcels being “unloaded” in the wings. Or at the other extreme, with unlimited space and budget, one can bring in a horse(or pony)-drawn wagon to complete the climax before the interval.
This can be a spectacular show, with costumes and setting becoming brighter and more dramatic as the story goes on, culminating in the arrival of the uniformed Boys' Band. The epitome of shimmering trumpets, clashing cymbals and thundering timpani.
Music is the central focus of the whole show with piano, pianola, and brass marching band all featuring in the action.
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