When it comes to Japan Railways, there has been one campaign of theirs that has stood out because of the glorious beauty of Kyoto and that one song which has accompanied the commercials for over thirty years. I'm hoping that whoever in the JR advertising department was behind the idea of using "My Favorite Things" got a major bonus for the idea. The cinematic version of "The Sound of Music" from where "My Favorite Things" originated is practically essential viewing in the junior high schools of Japan, so that particular song among the many others in there is well known to everyone. But now, the Japanese probably relate the song more to Kyoto than the original movie.
Of course, before Julie Andrews and the movie version became the huge hit, "The Sound of Music" originated as a stage musical in 1959 with Mary Martin in the starring role of Maria. I never knew all that much about Martin but I knew her son, Larry Hagman, as the infamous JR Ewing in the show "Dallas". And of course, there was his earlier role as the far nicer military man Tony in "I Dream of Jeannie".
For the record, I'll have you know that from the lyrics, my favourite things would be apple strudel and schnitzel with noodles. If these were available at a buffet, I would be a happy man. Now, the reason for me choosing this one is that although it wasn't specifically made for the Holidays, "My Favorite Things" has been a staple on the radio and mall speakers during the Xmas season. Personally, I used to remember my kindergarten teacher always playing this on the record player...most likely to sedate us.
I figure that if Rodgers and Hart have a ROY entry on "Kayo Kyoku Plus", then Rodgers and Hammerstein should get a shot as well. Anyways, what were the big hits in 1959 in Japan when "The Sound of Music" made its debut on Broadway?
Hiroshi Mizuhara -- Kuroi Ochiba （黒い落葉）
The Peanuts -- Kawaii Hana (可愛い花）
Frank Nagai and Kazuko Matsuo -- Tokyo Nightclub （東京ナイトクラブ）
In the very early 80's when I was still in kindergarten I remember how popular the TV drama Dallas was! I was way too young to under stand any of themes or dialogue but I knew the theme score and recognized the 'Southfork Ranch' house.
ReplyDeleteOne of the fascinating things that I learned when "Dallas" had been broadcast in Japan is how much people there disliked Charlene Tilton's character because she always showed her open mouth when laughing instead of using her hand to hide her mouth. Not sure if that is actually true or not.
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