One of the best! I was in this play when I was 10 and I heard "Trouble" so much I can memorize it now! The funniest and best song is Shipoopi. I think all kids and adults who see this will love it! Little kids will love Mayor Shinn's wife and adults will think Winthrop is adorable. See this movie!
Tools for this page
The Music Man
-
Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 6; suggested age 6. -
Is it any good?
-
Common Sense says
Glorious production, with gorgeous music, dancing.
updated 07.04.08
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 6 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
-
Violence & scariness :
-
Sexy stuff :
-
Language:
-
Consumerism:
-
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About The Music Man
Parents need to know that there is oblique speculation by the "Pick a Little, Talk a Little" ladies and by Harold and Marcellus about why the elderly gentleman donated the library building to the city but left the books to Marian, as well as criticism of the "raciness" of the books she recommends. Harold's song about the "Sadder But Wiser Girl for Me" describes (in G-rated terms) his preference for women with some sexual experience.
Read our full review by Nell Minow
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about why they think Winthrop is so shy at first. What makes him change? How does Harold change people's minds? Is that good or bad? How does the music help to tell the story? Listen to the songs "76 Trombones" and "Goodnight My Someone" again. They are very much alike, as you can tell when they are sung together. What did the composer want that to tell you about the people who sing them? Why were the parents worried about their children playing pool? What do parents worry about today? How is Marian's library like yours? Do you know your librarian? Do people in your town ever argue about what books should be in the library?
Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.
You are now subscribed to the Common Sense weekly newsletter!
To write reviews and create a public profile, complete your account set-up here.
Our Members Say
See all 2 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
Lives in PennsylvaniaI rate this title on for age 2 and give itLOVE IT!
- Lives in PennsylvaniaI rate this title on for age 2 and give it
Great for all ages
This is an excellent movie for all ages. My 3 year old daughter loves the singing and dancing; my husband and I love the story and the fantastic acting.
Give Recommendations, Get Them, Too!
Become a member and get recommendations from other parents based on your child's age.
Already a member? Log in
Our Members Rate It
Have You Seen it? 
For Your Family
Get age-based recommendations for your kids:
Customize based on your child's age
