I’d Rather Be Right

I’d Rather Be Right was the most anxiously awaited theatrical event of the decade for two reasons: the central character was President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the part was being played by the legendary George M. Cohan, who was returning to the musical stage for the first time in ten years in the only song-and-dance show he ever appeared in that he did not write himself. The work, however, was considered not quite up to the satirical standards set by Of Thee I Sing, with which it was most frequently compared. The locale is New York’s Central Park on the 4th of July. Peggy and Phil (Joy Hodges and Austin Marshall) hope to get married but Phil’s boss won’t give him a raise until Roosevelt balances the budget. Phil falls asleep and dreams that they meet FDR strolling through the park. After Phil explains the couple’s dilemma, Roosevelt promises to help — which is only an excuse for some genial ribbing at the expense of Cabinet members, the Supreme Court, The PWA, fireside chats, Alf Landon, press conferences, and the President’s decision to seek a third term. I’d Rather Be Right. George M. Cohan as President Franklin D. Roosevelt giving a 4th of July speech. (Vandamm)

"musical revue,": the show's own period marketing line.

Music

Richard Rodgers

Lyrics

Lorenz Hart

Book

George S. Kaufman & Moss Hart