Du Barry Was a Lady

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"Du Barry Was a Lady" is a musical comedy with music and lyrics by Cole Porter and book by Herbert Fields and Buddy G. DeSylva. The show premiered on Broadway in 1939 and was later adapted into a film in 1943 starring Red Skelton, Lucille Ball, and Gene Kelly.

The show tells the story of a washroom attendant named Louis Blore, who is in love with the nightclub singer May Daly. When Louis wins the Irish Sweepstakes, he decides to quit his job and pursue May, who is already engaged to her wealthy boyfriend. In a dream sequence, Louis imagines himself as King Louis XV and May as Madame Du Barry, his mistress. As he dreams, Louis must contend with his rival, the police, and the revolutionaries who are seeking to overthrow him.

"Du Barry Was a Lady" features several memorable songs, including "Do I Love You?", "Friendship", and "Well, Did You Evah?". The show is known for its witty dialogue, fast-paced action, and colorful costumes and sets. It is considered one of Cole Porter's most successful musicals and remains a popular choice for revivals and adaptations.