All American

Abstract

Chapter 10 describes the sunset of Bolger’s career. Particular focus is given to the creation of All American, Mel Brooks’s first musical, starring Bolger. The show hearkened back to the era that shaped Bolger’s core values. But, like so much of the art reflecting the culture of the 1960s, All American was actually out to lampoon these values. This story offers insight into the culture wars of the 1960s and Bolger’s changing attitude toward stardom. His increasing interest in political activities is explored. The Republican Party encouraged his participation in their activities. He performed for President Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon at the 1957 inauguration. He would go on to work on three presidential campaigns for Nixon. Bolger’s final Broadway show, Agnes de Mille’s Come Summer, also features prominently in this chapter.