History: A Musical

The concept of Musical Theater has roots that go back to the beginning of humankind. Since ancient times, humanity’s instinct to celebrate and praise had been expressed through rituals and ceremonies dedicated to the gods they believed in. These performances had often included elements of music, dance, and storytelling, therefore laying the foundation for what would later become the art form now known as musical theater. While the current standard of musical theater may not have been created until more recent times, its essence has always existed throughout history and has been constantly changing and evolving with the world around it.

1100 BC - 1100

Ancient Greece

Although known for its contributions to literature, philosophy, and arts, Ancient Greece had been the parent of a new form of entertainment, musical theater. Ancient Greeks combined dialogue, music, and dance to bring a new way of expression into their religious rituals and celebrations. Many well-known playwrights such as Aristophanes, Sophocles, and Aeschyles would use music to move their stories forward. Plays would include a chorus who would preform as a group only while giving their collective opinions on the show or just allowing the scene to move forward. Greek plays would only contain a few actors therefore, they would wear masks as costumes to separate each character and make it easier for the audience to understand when they switched characters.

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1100 BC - 1100

Ancient Greece

Ancient Greek plays had been created for and performed at religious events. Theaters were named after gods such as Dionysis, and the plays would be preformed as an act of celebration and praise to the gods. Plays had surrounded the themes and tales in mythology talking of heroism and love. Because the audience had been filled with men the plays tended to include raunchy humor.

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0027 BC

Roman Empire

When the Roman Empire took over, they had taken much from the Greeks including their unique art form. The style of combining dialogue, dance, and song, continued to be produced. In ancient Roman theater, stages were temporary wooden structures that were constructed and destroyed daily. The performances had priority seating and lacked separation between the audience and the stage, with a drop curtain for scene changes. Productions typically featured smaller casts comprised exclusively of men, creating more intimate interactions between performers and audience members. To enhance the experience, actors attached chips to their shoes, allowing the audience to hear the rhythm of their dance moves, similar to modern day tap shoes.

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0476

Medieval Era

During the Middle Ages, the materials used for sets and music were often hastily made from scrape materials. Productions would rely on sunlight or if the stage was not in direct sunlight, would construct poles that could reflect the sunlight creating a spotlight-like contraption. Italy’s theater culture had been inspired by Ancient Greek traditions through using choruses causing the birth of opera as a form of storytelling through song. While Shakespeare integrated music into his works, it diverged from the musical theater format. Meanwhile, Molière crafted comedies with songs specifically crafted for royal audiences, demonstrating the varied approaches to theatrical production during this period.

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0476

Medieval Era

During medieval times, the relationship between audience and actors was transformed by the separation between social classes. Italy had introduced comedy troupes who had traveled Europe, captivating audiences with their improvised performances centered around established characters, rather than scripted dialogues. This dynamic laid the groundwork for a more participatory theatrical experience. During the Age of Enlightenment, regions with thriving economies and sizable populations like England, Germany, Austria-Hungary, and France witnessed a flourishing of the arts, providing fertile ground for theatrical innovation. Opera, in particular, gained traction among the upper and middle classes, reflecting the evolving tastes and cultural aspirations of society. Italian opera singers would pay a lot of money to travel to London to preform in their operas.

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0476

Medieval Era

Themes in medieval theater were often rooted in seriousness and religious or moral narratives. "Music dramas," as they were called, these productions typically avoided comedy, focusing instead on biblical stories, tales of the saints, the seven deadly sins, and retellings of folk tales. Performances occasionally included topics from current events or classic jokes, alongside a considerable amount of physical humor such as the use of slapstick comedy.

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1597

Opera

During medieval times, the relationship between audience and actors was transformed by the separation between social classes. Italy introduced comedy troupes that traveled Europe, captivating audiences with their improvised performances centered around established characters rather than scripted dialogues. This dynamic laid the groundwork for a more participatory theatrical experience. During the Age of Enlightenment, regions with thriving economies and sizable populations like England, Germany, Austria-Hungary, and France witnessed a flourishing of the arts, leading to theatrical innovation. Opera, in particular, gained popularity among the upper and middle classes, reflecting the evolving tastes and cultural aspirations of society. Italian opera singers would pay a lot of money to travel to London to preform in their operas.

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1597

Opera

“Comic operas” typically follow a structured format comprising an introductory short play, a full-length play, and a concluding short show. Within this framework, any of these segments could incorporate musical elements, offering variety in the presentation. Despite being labeled as "comic opera," the themes of these performances can vary widely, encompassing a broad spectrum of genres and narratives. This format allowed for creative flexibility, enabling comic operas to traverse different musical styles and thematic landscapes, catering to a wide range of audience preferences and artistic expressions. A Beggar's Opera, a widely known opera from the time, was originally composed with instruments playing the melody, but through persuasion it incorporated accompaniment, adding to its success.

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1597

Opera

Opera encompasses a wide array of themes, from romanticism to social commentary, reflecting the different faces of human experience. Comic opera, with its light-hearted and romantic narratives, laid the foundation for the operetta genre, whose songs are still sometimes used in modern day. Pantomime opera, known for its blend of singing, dancing, physical comedy, and acrobatics, similar to modern-day Cirque du Soleil, is enjoyed by audiences despite critical disdain, reaching its Broadway in the 1870s. Ballad operas used existing songs to advance their narratives, while John Gay's "Beggar's Opera" stood as a groundbreaking work that mocked the upper class and intertwined its lyrics with the plot, setting a precedent for long-running theatrical productions. However, its political satire sparked controversy and censorship, leading to a reluctance among writers to engage with political themes in their plays. Despite its negative reception in English-speaking regions, the tradition of social critique through theater remained largely unexplored in other languages and cultures.

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1624

American Theater

American theater was created with aspirations drawn from European theater traditions, with New York City quickly emerging as the focal point of American theatrical innovation. While NYC reigns supreme today, Philadelphia once stood as a formidable rival in the realm of theater. The birth of American theater dates back to "The Prince of Parthia," widely regarded as the nation's inaugural play. Original Broadway shows such as this contained Shakespearean influences. Despite its historical significance, "The Prince of Parthia" had a fleeting moment in the spotlight, with just a single performance to its name. Nonetheless, this production laid the foundation for the rich tapestry of storytelling that would define Broadway, showcasing early American efforts to carve out a distinctive theatrical identity inspired by European influences and indigenous creativity.

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1866

The First Broadway Musical

The creation of the first Broadway musical traces back to the unfortunate burning down of the intended theater for a ballet performance of The Black Crook. In haste, creators found an available Broadway theater with bright sets where they decided to perform. The Black Crook was a narrative that seamlessly integrated dance and backdrop, laying the foundation for the birth of the musical. "You Naughty, Naughty Men" one of the songs from the ballet, boasts classic balletic elements accompanied by a melodic piano soundtrack. Because of the production’s success, Broadway witnessed an introduction of similar shows, each brimming with the triumvirate of singing, dancing, and acting without a consistent storyline. The triumph of productions like "Black Crook" further underscored the immense profitability of these shows, solidifying Broadway's status as the ultimate destination for musical theater and marking the dawn of a new era in entertainment history.

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1866

The First Broadway Musical

"The Black Crook" emerged at the crossroads of cultural influences, blending elements of theater with the popular entertainment of its time. Originating from the adaptation of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the production intertwined storytelling with dance and banjo performances. Set against the backdrop of the post-Civil War era, "The Black Crook" introduced audiences to a new form of musical theater that grappled with themes of reconstruction, societal change, and the evolving American identity. Through its innovative fusion of genres and narratives, "The Black Crook" not only paved the way for the future of Broadway but also served as a reflection of the complex socio-political landscape of its time, leaving a mark on the history of American entertainment.

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1927

A Broadway Style

The Ziegfeld Follies and, more specifically, "Show Boat" stand as pillars of American musical theater, marking milestones in Broadway’s history. "Show Boat," based on a novel, captured hearts with its timeless themes and unforgettable tunes, most notably the iconic "Ol' Man River." Since its debut, the production has seen numerous revivals, a testament to its enduring popularity and relevance. The musical demonstrates the classic musical format, where emotional acting and singing intertwine to narrate a compelling story. The music of "Show Boat" exudes a rich emotional depth, reflecting the musical style of its time with its jazzy vibrato and vocal performances. In essence, "Show Boat" not only represents a hallmark of Broadway but also serves as a poignant reflection of its era's evolving musical landscape and societal themes.

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1931

Political Musicals

With the debut of two George Gershwin comedies, "Strike up the Band" and "Of Thee I Sing," the musical world witnessed the birth of a vibrant new genre. Gershwin's compositions, characterized by their upbeat melodies and infectious energy, injected a fresh vitality into Broadway. "Of Thee I Sing" made history as the first musical to win a Pulitzer Prize, a testament to its groundbreaking impact on the American stage. The show delved into the realm of political satire; the plot unfolds with a unique premise containing a presidential candidate who finds himself captivated by his own secretary after basing his platform on marrying the winner of a pageant. This leads to a charming tale of love and politics intertwined. This witty and whimsical narrative entertained audiences and offered a sharp commentary on the quirks and foibles of American democracy, cementing Gershwin's legacy as a pioneer in the musical theater landscape.

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1934

Reviews

A review of "Revenge With Music" reveals in more detail how more sophisticated audiences perceived and commented on specific shows. The writer is disappointed that the title is misleading, suggesting something frilly or girly, when in fact it delves into the realm of "comic opera". It draws inspiration from a Spanish tale, creating a strong storyline that resonates, even on the Broadway stage. However, the reviewer noticed a noticeable shift in the story’s depth, as theatrics are heightened to engage audiences. While the composition fails to impress the critic, who finds it somewhat dated and reminiscent of past musical eras, there's acknowledgment of an attempt to fuse traditional opera with contemporary elements. Despite this effort, the songs lack the infectious qualities needed to truly captivate audiences, ultimately leaving the reviewer underwhelmed.

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1943

An American Style

1943 marked a big shift in the Broadway world with the arrival of "Oklahoma!" The production not only stole the spotlight but also revolutionized the musical landscape in profound ways. "Oklahoma!" introduced a new era where choreography took center stage, elevating its role in storytelling. Breaking box office records, the show captivated audiences with its infectious energy and excitement. Drawing inspiration from the folk comedy "Green Grow the Lilacs," "Oklahoma!" infused the source material with a much-needed dose of upbeat optimism. This infusion of positivity kept the audiences coming back, solidifying "Oklahoma!" as a timeless classic and setting the stage for a new wave of musical theater innovation.

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1948

Reviving Classics

Modern Broadway shows have often drawn inspiration from timeless classics, breathing new life into beloved stories through revamped musical adaptations. Playwrights have turned to Shakespearean plays and other literary gems, transforming them into vibrant musical spectacles. For example, "Kiss Me, Kate" reimagines "The Taming of the Shrew," while "West Side Story" offers a modern twist on "Romeo and Juliet," captivating audiences with its strong portrayal of love and conflict. Similarly, "My Fair Lady" brings George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion" to the stage with unforgettable melodies and performances. These adaptations have become constant favorites, causing countless revivals on stages worldwide. Furthermore, recent successes like "Fiddler on the Roof" and "Hair" have showcased the diversity of Broadway, exploring themes of Jewish culture and the counterculture movement with storytelling that transcends borders, captivating audiences both nationally and internationally.

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1967

Famous Playwrights

Two renowned Broadway playwrights, Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber, had major contrasts when it came to their career trajectories and approaches to musical theater. Sondheim faced early setbacks with many initial flops before catapulting to success with groundbreaking hits. His dedication to crafting complex narratives and musical compositions redefined the genre. While Sondheim's focus was primarily on the music and plot, Lloyd Webber decided to bring visual spectacle. Lloyd Webber had gone on to win awards such as the Triple Play Award for managing an unprecedented feat of having three shows simultaneously running on Broadway, including "Cats," "Joseph," and "Evita.” However, not all ventures were triumphant, as seen with the costly failure of "Starlight Express," which struggled financially over its two-year run not even breaking even on its expenses.

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1970

Stephen Sondheim

"Company," Stephen Sondheim's standout hit of the 1970s, defied conventions and challenged audience expectations. Originally not intended as a musical, Sondheim was persuaded to adapt it, adding to its unique charm. The unconventional beginning, along with characters who seemingly wouldn't typically burst into song, lent the production a quirky allure. The show went through numerous iterations of its ending, from Bobby's ambiguous stance on marriage to a more bitter portrayal of marital relationships, reflecting Sondheim's interest in audience reception. This experimentation extended to the music, with songs like "Getting Married Today" showcasing a distinctive pattern that mirrored the characters' personalities in a refreshingly original manner.

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1981

Andrew Lloyd Webber

"Cats," was a groundbreaking musical based on poems by T.S. Eliot and choreographed by a British artist. The show had faced much back and forth due to concerns about American versus British talent standards. The worry extended to whether the singers could meet the British choreographer's expectations and if the choreography could meet American standards. There was also concern that the stage, originally intended for television, could not support a live theatrical production. Despite these doubts, composer Andrew Lloyd Webber did not give up. Through his meticulous study of Eliot's works he crafted a standout song, a process marked by nightly lyric revisions. Ultimately, this song became Webber's most famous, earning $5 million. Fragments of this iconic song are scattered throughout the musical, serving as subtle foreshadowing. Additionally, there are both American and British versions of certain songs that highlight the cultural nuances woven into the fabric of the production."

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History: A Musical

Engagement

Technique

Themes

1100 BC
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1100 BC
1586 BC
0494 BC
0476
1467
1598
1866
1928
1939
1961
1979
3382

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