42nd Street

42nd Street

Year: 1933

Runtime: 89 min

Language: british english

Director: Lloyd Bacon

ComedyRomanceMusical

A young dancer from small-town Pennsylvania arrives in New York City with dreams of Broadway stardom. When the leading lady of a new musical suffers an injury, this fresh-faced performer unexpectedly finds herself thrust into the spotlight. Navigating the challenges and excitement of show business, she must prove her talent while also finding love and discovering the true meaning of perseverance and dedication in the dazzling world of the stage.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – 42nd Street (1933)

Trace every key event in 42nd Street (1933) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Julian Marsh's Dire Situation

In New York City during the Great Depression, stage director Julian Marsh faces financial ruin due to the lack of theater attendance. As he struggles with his health, believed to be from cancer, he sees an opportunity to direct the musical comedy 'Pretty Lady' to secure his future.

Great Depression New York City
2

Casting the Leads

During the auditions for 'Pretty Lady', Julian Marsh selects Dorothy Brock and Billy Lawler for the lead roles. Despite the competitive environment, Peggy Sawyer receives encouragement from Billy, who helps her find her confidence during the chorus tryouts.

3

Rehearsals Underway

Rehearsals continue for five weeks as the cast prepares for the show's premiere in Philadelphia. Just before the opening, tension arises between Dorothy, her ex-lover Pat Denning, and Abner Dillon, who threatens to withdraw funding due to Dorothy's romantic entanglements.

Five weeks before the opening Philadelphia
4

Abner's Threat

Abner Dillon grows frustrated with Dorothy's behavior and considers pulling his support for the show after a drunken incident. Marsh manages to convince him to stay as long as Dorothy apologizes for her actions, highlighting the delicate balancing act of production.

Night before the opening Hotel, Philadelphia
5

Jealousy Brews

Dorothy becomes jealous after seeing Pat and Peggy together, leading to an emotional turmoil that results in her twisting her ankle. This injury places her future in the show in jeopardy and increases the stakes for everyone involved.

Night before the opening Hotel, Philadelphia
6

Search for a New Leading Lady

Finding himself in a bind after Dorothy's injury, Marsh must quickly find a replacement. Abner announces that 'Anytime Ann' will take over, but she insists there is only one girl who can truly carry the show—Peggy Sawyer.

7

Peggy's Preparation

Marsh reluctantly agrees to cast Peggy, a decision he had previously overlooked. Over the next five hours, Julian works tirelessly with Peggy to hone her acting, singing, and dancing skills, transforming her performance.

8

Words of Encouragement

Before her big debut, Peggy receives encouragement not only from Billy but also from a sympathetic Dorothy. Both recognize the critical moment ahead for Peggy, with Dorothy even proclaiming her decision to marry Pat after the show.

Backstage
9

The Debut Performance

The much-anticipated opening night of 'Pretty Lady' finally arrives. With the audience on the edge of their seats, Peggy goes on stage and delivers an impeccable performance, highlighted by her show-stopping number '42nd Street'.

Opening night Theater, Philadelphia
10

The Aftermath of Success

Following the successful opening, the exhausted Julian Marsh finds solace on the theater steps. He overhears audience members discussing the show and the exciting prospect that he discovered Peggy, establishing her as a star of the future.

After the show Theater, Philadelphia

Last Updated: June 11, 2025 at 06:37

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42nd Street Summary

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42nd Street Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in 42nd Street

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Characters, Settings & Themes in 42nd Street

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