Babes on Broadway is a 1941 American musical film starring Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland and directed by Busby Berkeley, with Vincente Minnelli directing Garland's big solo numbers. The film, which features Fay Bainter and Virginia Weidler, was the third in the "Backyard Musical" series about kids who put on their own show, following Babes in Arms (1939) and Strike Up the Band (1940). Songs in the film include "Babes on Broadway" by Burton Lane (music) and E.Y. "Yip" Harburg (lyrics), and "How About You?" by Lane with lyrics by Ralph Freed, the brother of producer Arthur Freed. The movie ends with a minstrel show performed by the main cast in blackface.

Plot

Tommy Williams (Mickey Rooney) is a talented performer with aspirations of making it on Broadway. He teams up with his friend Penny Morris (Judy Garland) to organize a charity show aimed at benefiting British children affected by World War II. Despite facing numerous obstacles, such as financial difficulties and misunderstandings, their determination and talent push them forward. They gather a diverse group of friends and fellow performers, each bringing their unique skills to the project, to help overcome the challenges they encounter. As preparations for the show progress, the group faces a series of comedic and dramatic incidents that test their resolve and ingenuity. From securing a venue and costumes to dealing with unexpected mishaps, Tommy and Penny's leadership and creativity keep the project on track. The group’s camaraderie strengthens as they work together, highlighting the power of community and collaboration. The climax of their efforts is the charity performance, a dazzling showcase of musical and theatrical talent that enthralls the audience. The show is a resounding success, raising the necessary funds for the cause and earning Tommy and Penny the recognition they have been striving for. Their journey underscores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the collective power of working towards a common goal, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1940s New York. The experience celebrates youthful ambition and the joys of bringing people together through the arts.

Cast

Production

Babes on Broadway was the third film in the "Backyard Musical" series, which included Babes in Arms (1939), Strike Up the Band (1940) and Girl Crazy (1943). The film was stalled in the middle of production when Garland secretly flew to Las Vegas to wed her first husband David Rose. She was 19 years old.

Musical numbers

Box office

According to MGM records, the film earned $2,363,000 in the US and Canada and $1,496,000 elsewhere resulting in a profit of $1,720,000.

Home media

Babes on Broadway was released on DVD for the first time as part of a 5-disc DVD set The Mickey Rooney & Judy Garland Collection on September 25, 2007. The set contains Babes on Broadway, Babes in Arms, Girl Crazy, and Strike Up the Band, as well as a fifth disc containing bonus features on Rooney and Garland.