Overview
Synopsis
Based on the hit film of the same name, The Full Monty follows the fortunes of six unemployed steelworkers in Buffalo, New York. With no job, money or prospects, they are fed up. When the men spy their wives and other local women going crazy over a group of male strippers, an idea begins to emerge. Overcoming their jealousy and feelings of emasculation, they decide to make some quick cash by forming their own act--a team of male strippers with ‘real man’ bodies. However, their rehearsals are not easy. As they prepare for the performance of their lives, they are tested and exposed, both physically and emotionally. Overcoming their fears, self-consciousness, and inner demons, the men realize that they are strong together and find solace in their friendship. This gives them the courage to finally ‘let it go’ and reveal all!
Show Information
Context
The Full Monty is based on the 1997 British film of the same name. The musical premiered at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego in June 2000. It then transferred to Broadway at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in October of the same year. Directed by Jack O’Brien and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell, the show ran for 770 performances and 35 previews. The cast included Patrick Wilson, Andre DeShields, and Jason Danieley. Kathleen Freeman died during the run, aged 82, and was replaced by Jane Connell.
to read the context for The Full Monty and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Plot
Act One
In Buffalo, New York, the recession has hit and local steelworkers have been laid off from their jobs at the steel factory. However, the women of the town are determined to have a bit of fun while they support their husbands. They find that fun onstage at Tony Giordano’s club. Going along to the ‘Girls’ Night Out’, they are entertained by Buddy “Keno” Walsh, a successful male stripper who has the body of a god and makes a lot of money for revealing all of it. Meanwhile, the men
to read the plot for The Full Monty and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Characters
Showing 8 of 13 characters
Character Portrayals
See StageAgent members who have performed roles in The Full Monty.
Showing 8 of 10 portrayals
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Songs
Act One
Scrap – Jerry, Dave, Malcolm, Ethan, and men
*It's a Woman's World – Georgie and women
Man – Jerry and Dave
Big-Ass Rock – Jerry, Dave, and Malcolm
*Life With Harold – Vicki and ensemble
*Big Black Man – Horse and the boys
You Rule My World – Dave and Harold
Michael Jordan's Ball – Jerry and the boys
Act Two
Jeanette's Showbiz Number – Jeanette and the boys
Breeze Off the River – Jerry
*The Goods – Jerry, Horse, the boys, Georgie, Vicki, Pam, and women
You Walk with Me – Malcolm and Ethan
You Rule My World (Reprise) – Georgie and Vicki
*Let it Go – The boys and ensemble
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Key Terms
An adaptation is a reworking of a story from one medium or cultural context into another, such as turning a novel into a play or updating a classic play’s setting. Adaptations often reinterpret themes, characters, and style for new audiences. They can range from faithful recreations to bold reimaginings.
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Guide Written By:
Alexandra Appleton
Writer, editor and theatre researcher