Of Thee I Sing (song)

Of Thee I Sing is a musical comedy with music by George Gershwin, lyrics by Ira Gershwin, and a book by George S. Kaufman and Morrie Ryskind. It premiered on Broadway on December 21, 1931, at the Music Box Theatre, running for 441 performances. It was a significant work in the development of the American musical, satirizing American politics and the presidential election process.

The musical follows the fictional presidential campaign of John P. Wintergreen, a charming but somewhat hapless candidate. His campaign is complicated by various romantic entanglements, including his affair with the President's daughter, and the political machinations of his opponents. The satirical elements poke fun at the often-absurd aspects of American political life, including the media's role, the public's fickle nature, and the sometimes-bizarre personalities involved in the political arena.

''Of Thee I Sing'' was groundbreaking for its time due to its sophisticated and witty lyrics, Gershwin's memorable score (which includes such well-known songs as "Love Is Sweeping the Country" and "Who Cares?"), and its bold satirical approach to a subject matter typically considered taboo in musical theatre. It was the first musical to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, awarded in 1932. This award marked a significant step for the American musical, elevating its artistic merit and establishing its place within the broader theatrical landscape. Its success helped pave the way for more sophisticated and politically charged musicals to follow. The show has been revived several times throughout the years, demonstrating its enduring appeal and relevance. Although satirical, the show's underlying message remains relevant even today.