Euromoney’s book shelf (the editor’s window sill) groans with weighty tomes that cover the credit crunch, but as yet theatrical productions have been distinctly lacking. Euromoney might not be natural reading material for arty types but below are some helpful suggestions for anyone thinking of creating a musical of the financial crisis.
The songs in the first act reflect the early years of the credit bubble. What better opening song could there be than "Who wants to be a millionaire?" from High Society? Followed up with "Who will buy?" from Oliver! Then there is the slicing and dicing of structured finance which is summed up by the song "Any dream will do" from Joseph. For the height of the boom we have "The Gold Diggers’ Song (We’re in the Money)" the opener of the famous Great Depression musical film Gold Diggers of 1933.
Those who claim that no one saw the credit bubble coming are wrong. There were plenty who warned that things were getting out of control. For them there is "Sit down you’re rocking the boat" from Guys and Dolls.
"Reviewing the Situation", again from Oliver!, reflects the rating agencies’ role in the crisis.