Herbert Kretzmer: Les Misérables Lyricist Felt Lack of Credit
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Key Points:
* Lyricist’s Claim: Herbert Kretzmer, the lyricist for the English version of Les Misérables, argued that the English adaptation is not a translation but a substantial rewrite of the original French lyrics. He felt his contribution was being downplayed.
* Extent of changes: Kretzmer stated there was “very little…that can be called translation” and that the English version was “virtually a new, rewritten show.” He claimed it was a “show reborn.”
* mackintosh’s View: producer Cameron Mackintosh is quoted as saying kretzmer possessed a strong moral compass, which allowed him to capture the spirit of Victor Hugo’s work in his lyrics.
* History of the Musical: Les Misérables originated as a French album in 1980 and a stage show in 1981.The English-language version premiered in London in 1985.
* Archive findings: An archive revealed interesting details about the original casting process,including consideration of Brian Blessed and actors Chaim Topol and Max von Sydow.
In essence, the article focuses on a dispute over the creative credit for the english adaptation of Les Misérables, highlighting the lyricist’s assertion that his work went far beyond simple translation.