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42nd Street Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for 42nd Street (1933). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.


In New York City, during the challenging times of the Great Depression, stage director Julian Marsh finds himself in dire straits as his theater suffers from low attendance, leaving him completely broke. He eagerly seizes the chance to direct the musical comedy Pretty Lady, written by Jones and Barry. With his health seemingly failing—most likely due to cancer—Marsh hopes that the success of this show will secure his financial future for the remaining days of his life.

The auditions yield two standout performers for the leading roles: Dorothy Brock, chosen by the show’s producer, Abner Dillon, and Billy Lawler, a talented juvenile actor. Billy quickly develops a soft spot for the inexperienced Peggy Sawyer, a newcomer to major Broadway productions. He kindly helps Peggy to calm her nerves during the tryouts, as many of their fellow chorus members remain unfriendly towards her. However, Peggy finds support from chorines Anytime Ann and Lorraine Fleming, the girlfriend of choreographer Andy Lee, and all three women eventually secure spots in the chorus.

As rehearsals progress, Marsh uncovers a troubling situation: Dorothy is playing both sides, being romantically involved with her former partner, Pat Denning, while still tied to Abner. To prevent Abner from discovering the truth and pulling his financial backing, Marsh resorts to intimidation tactics against Pat. However, Pat decides to end things with Dorothy to focus on building his own career in Philadelphia.

After weeks of rehearsals, the company heads to Philadelphia to premiere the show. Dorothy, upon seeing Pat with Peggy, feels a pang of jealousy despite their innocent friendship. At a pre-opening party, Dorothy drinks too much and has a confrontation with Abner, which leads to him threatening to withdraw his support. To remedy the situation, Marsh negotiates a truce that hinges on Dorothy’s apology.

When Dorothy invites Pat over to her hotel room to discuss their relationship, she becomes unruly under the influence of alcohol. Peggy Sawyer, upon overhearing a conversation about Marsh’s plans to sideline Pat, rushes to inform him. During the commotion, Dorothy injures her ankle, jeopardizing her role as the leading lady right before the performance.

On opening day, Abner reveals a new lead, Anytime Ann, but she insists that only Peggy can truly carry the show. Surprised by Peggy’s growth, Marsh decides to give her the chance and works intensively with her on her acting, singing, and dancing skills.

Just before Peggy’s debut, she receives warm encouragement from both Billy and a now-convalescing Dorothy, who has resolved to marry Pat. Marsh gives Peggy a powerful pep talk, stating: > “Sawyer, you’re going out a youngster, but you’ve got to come back a star!”

The grand spectacle features lavish musical numbers, culminating in Peggy’s unforgettable performance of ‘42nd Street’. As the curtain falls on the play, an exhausted Julian Marsh finds a moment of respite seated on the theater’s back steps, listening to patrons mention, “Marsh will probably say he discovered her. Some guys get all the breaks.”

42nd Street Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of 42nd Street (1933) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.


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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

42nd Street Characters

Explore all characters from 42nd Street (1933). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.


Julian Marsh

Julian Marsh is a determined stage director struggling to revive his career amidst financial ruin. Driven by desperation and passion for theater, his character embodies the clash between art and personal health challenges, making him a complex figure seeking redemption through his next production.

🎭 Director 💼 Desperate

Peggy Sawyer

Peggy Sawyer is a talented yet inexperienced young actress who strives to prove herself in the competitive world of Broadway. Her character demonstrates resilience and growth, evolving from a shy newcomer to a confident leading lady, encouraged by supportive peers.

🌟 Ambition 🎤 Actress

Dorothy Brock

Dorothy Brock is a seasoned actress grappling with personal and professional challenges, including jealousy and romantic entanglements. Her character's journey reflects the pressures of maintaining stardom during tough times, ultimately leading to moments of humility and realization.

💔 Jealousy 🎭 Star

42nd Street Settings

Learn where and when 42nd Street (1933) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.


Time period

Great Depression

The Great Depression, occurring in the 1930s, was marked by widespread economic hardship. Many people faced unemployment and poverty, leading to significant changes in society and the arts. Amidst the struggles, the theater became a form of escapism, showcasing resilience and hope through performance.

Location

New York City, Philadelphia

The movie takes place in New York City during the Great Depression, a time when theater attendance plummeted. Known for its vibrant arts scene, New York was still a hub of creativity, where dreams clashed with harsh realities. The story also transitions to Philadelphia, where the musical 'Pretty Lady' makes its debut, a city rich in culture and history.

🏙️ City 🎭 Theater

42nd Street Themes

Discover the main themes in 42nd Street (1933). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.


🌟

Ambition

Ambition drives the characters of '42nd Street' as they chase their dreams in the theater world. Julian Marsh's desperation to succeed defines the narrative, alongside Peggy Sawyer's inexperienced yet fervent desire to make her mark. The theme highlights the relentless pursuit of success, even in the face of obstacles.

💔

Jealousy

Jealousy plays a critical role in the dynamics between characters, particularly with Dorothy Brock's feelings towards Peggy Sawyer and her former partner Pat. This emotion sparks conflict and motivates decisions that shape the narrative, illustrating the personal struggles faced in a competitive environment.

🎶

Theater

The theater serves as a central theme, encapsulating both the art and the struggles of the characters behind the curtain. From auditions to performances, the story explores the dedication and intensity that define theatrical life, as well as the transformative power of musical performance.

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