Applause

Applause (1970), a musical play by Betty Comden, Adolph Green (book), Charles Strouse (music), Lee Adams (lyrics). [ PalaceTheatre, 896 perf.; Tony Award.] Theatre fan Eve Harrington (Penny Fuller) is so starstruck with Broadway leading lady Margo Channing (Lauren Bacall) that she is soon her assistant and personal secretary. But it turns out that Eve is really an ambitious actress who worms her way into Margo's life and manages to steal her stage role, her author, and almost her lover. Notable songs: Applause; Welcome to the Theatre; Who's That Girl?; But Alive. Skillfully adapted from the celebrated 1950 film All About Eve, the musical was a smashing vehicle for Bacall who shone despite her limited singing and dancing talents.