It has been rumoured within Theatreland that acclaimed lyricist, Sir Tim Rice, is set to retire from the musical theatre industry. This has come after claims that the public seem to prefer shows featuring well-known pop songs to original material in stage musicals.
Rice grew to international fame following his longtime collaborative working with Andrew Lloyd Webber on hugely successful musicals such as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Evita, as well as more recent works including From Here to Eternity. Following the news that From Here to Eternity is set to close in March after just 22 weeks in London’s West End, Rice now fears theatre-goers are more interested in seeing shows such as Mamma Mia!, which features the music of ABBA, and Queen musical We Will Rock You.
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was the first work of Rice and Lloyd-Webber, quickly taking on a life of its own leading to stagings, additions of new material, and even a record deal with Decca. Success with Joseph was followed by Jesus Christ Superstar, the show that brought the pair international fame and a place in musical theatre history. Next came Evita: as with Jesus Christ Superstar, a concept album was released and the show’s ironic piece “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” became a number one hit in the UK. As with Rice’s previous shows, Evita went on to play in countries around the world. Rice then met with Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus from ABBA to discuss ideas for a musical, and the trio collaborated on what would become Chess.
Rice’s work has won him numerous awards including 12 Ivor Novello awards, 3 Tonys, and 3 Oscars. He was knighted by HRH Queen Elizabeth II in 1994.
Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.