The Golden Apple Tickets

The Golden Apple is a musical theater production that was originally written for the New York stage in the late 1950s. The show is based on the Greek myth of the Judgment of Paris, in which three goddesses – Hera, Athena and Aphrodite – compete for possession of a golden apple.

While the myth is well-known, it is less commonly known how this theme relates to theater productions. The Golden Apple is a testament to how ancient myths can be reimagined and adapted for modern audiences. This musical deals with themes and characters that are both timeless and universal, making it relevant nearly six decades after its original debut.

One of the striking features of the show is its music score written by Jerome Moross with lyrics by John Latouche. The songs incorporate various genres such as jazz, opera, and Broadway-style numbers. The cast includes unique personalities like Ulysses, a sailor returning home from war; Penelope, his long-suffering wife; Helen of Troy, the "daughter of Zeus, queen of beauty" and Menelaus, her husband, seeking revenge for her kidnapping.

Despite being based on mythology, The Golden Apple's homey American setting and idiosyncratic characters breathe new life into a familiar story. It has been hailed as an innovative work of art thanks to its whimsical and satirical interpretation of the gods of Ancient Greece — a genre defied having drawn attention to that time in history in a way that has remained popular through subsequent remakes and productions.

Another notable feature of The Golden Apple is its theatrical direction and staging by John Houseman who made the most of a simple set design and found creative ways of showcasing the musical's central themes. Houseman’s unique vision had Ulysses and his men riding bicycles to reach their destinations, while the goddesses were all in love with themselves and each other reflected through tongue-in-cheek humor.

The Golden Apple’s exploration of themes such as lust, love triangles, jealousy, and pride are universal themes, resonating with audiences both on and off Broadway. The show's suggestion that the Olympians who viewers may have thought they knew so well are far from perfect resonates with popular culture today.

In conclusion, The Golden Apple showcases how a timeless myth can be interpreted in new and innovative ways for contemporary audiences, demonstrating how theatrical productions have a significant role in sustaining classic literature, myths, and legends. Many directors have made their interpretation of this myth over the years, but none has been able to match the beauty, humor, and creativity shown by John Latouche and Jerome Moross' brilliant musical adaptation.