Damn Yankees

A Classic Broadway Musical Comedy

Damn Yankees is a lively, old-fashioned Broadway musical comedy combining baseball, romance, fantasy and plenty of humor. The story is a modern variation on the Faust legend, with an ordinary baseball fan making a deal with the Devil to become a young superstar capable of helping his beloved Washington Senators defeat the New York Yankees.

Big Songs And Dance Numbers

The show has the feel of a traditional 1950s Broadway musical, with large ensemble numbers, energetic choreography and memorable songs. The score includes Broadway standards such as “Whatever Lola Wants,” “Heart” and “Two Lost Souls.” Lola, the Devil's seductive assistant, provides some of the musical's biggest comic and dance moments.

Comedy With Plenty Of Heart

Despite its supernatural premise, Damn Yankees remains lighthearted and accessible. Much of the story revolves around temptation, love and deciding what really matters. Baseball provides the setting, but audiences do not need to understand or even particularly like baseball to enjoy the show.

Generally suitable for older children, though it includes sexual innuendo, seduction, and mild adult themes.

The Original Broadway Production

Damn Yankees first opened on Broadway at the 46th Street Theatre on May 5, 1955. With music and lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross and a book by George Abbott and Douglass Wallop, the musical was based on Wallop's novel The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant. 

George Abbott directed, with choreography by Bob Fosse. The production ran for 1,019 performances, closing October 12, 1957, and won the Tony Award for Best Musical.

Damn Yankees Returns To Broadway

The first Broadway revival opened at the Marquis Theatre on March 3, 1994, starring Victor Garber, Bebe Neuwirth and Jarrod Emick. It ultimately played 519 regular performances, closing August 6, 1995.

The 2027 Broadway Revival

Damn Yankees returns to the Marquis Theatre in 2027, marking its first Broadway revival in more than 30 years. Previews begin March 24, 2027, with opening night scheduled for April 20, 2027. The new production follows its acclaimed 2025 engagement at Washington, D.C.'s Arena Stage.