Barbary Coast (musical)

Barbary Coast is a musical with music by Albert Hague, lyrics by Kenward Elmslie, and book by Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert. It is based on Herbert Asbury's book The Barbary Coast: An Informal History of the San Francisco Underworld.

The musical is set in San Francisco's Barbary Coast district during the late 19th century, a notorious red-light district known for its saloons, gambling dens, and brothels. It portrays the colorful characters and events that defined this era, typically focusing on themes of vice, adventure, and the clash between societal expectations and the realities of frontier life.

While Barbary Coast did not achieve widespread commercial success, it has been performed in regional theaters and smaller venues. Critical reception has been mixed, with some praising the energetic score and lively portrayal of the period, while others have criticized its book and overall execution. The musical attempts to capture the gritty and chaotic atmosphere of the historical Barbary Coast.