The Broadway Musical: From Show Boat to Sondheim and Lloyd Webber

Enchanted Evenings: The Broadway Musical from 'Show Boat' to Sondheim and Lloyd Webber

by Valerie Kim-Thuy Larsen

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12120 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	480 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Broadway musical is a unique form of American entertainment that has been captivating audiences for over a century. It combines the elements of music, dance, and drama to tell stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The origins of the Broadway musical can be traced back to the early 20th century, when vaudeville and operetta were the most popular forms of musical theater. In 1927, the musical Show Boat premiered on Broadway and revolutionized the genre. With its groundbreaking score by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II, and its realistic depiction of life on the Mississippi River, Show Boat set a new standard for Broadway musicals.

In the years that followed, Rodgers and Hammerstein became one of the most successful songwriting teams in Broadway history. Their musicals, such as Oklahoma! (1943),Carousel (1945),and The Sound of Music (1959),were both critically and commercially successful.

In the 1960s, a new generation of Broadway composers and lyricists emerged, led by Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim's musicals, such as Company (1970),Follies (1971),and Sweeney Todd (1979),were known for their complex characters, sophisticated lyrics, and innovative musical scores.

In the 1980s, Andrew Lloyd Webber became one of the most successful composers in Broadway history. His musicals, such as Cats (1981),The Phantom of the Opera (1986),and Les Misérables (1987),were all long-running hits on Broadway and around the world.

Today, the Broadway musical continues to be one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the world. The Broadway season runs from September to May, and there are always dozens of shows to choose from. Tickets to Broadway musicals can be expensive, but there are many ways to save money, such as buying tickets in advance or taking advantage of discounts.

If you are a fan of music, dance, and theater, then you should definitely see a Broadway musical. It is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.

The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical

The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical is generally considered to be the period from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. During this time, Broadway musicals were at the height of their popularity, and many of the most iconic musicals of all time were produced.

Some of the factors that contributed to the Golden Age of the Broadway Musical include:

• The rise of the American middle class
• The growth of the suburbs
• The development of new technologies, such as the phonograph and the radio
• The emergence of a new generation of talented composers and lyricists

During the Golden Age, Broadway musicals were often characterized by their optimistic tone, their focus on family and community, and their catchy songs.

The Broadway Musical Today

Today, the Broadway musical is a diverse and vibrant genre that continues to attract audiences from all over the world. There are Broadway musicals for all tastes, from traditional musicals to contemporary musicals to experimental musicals.

Some of the most popular Broadway musicals of recent years include:

• Hamilton (2015)
• The Book of Mormon (2011)
• Wicked (2003)
• The Lion King (1997)
• Chicago (1996)

The Broadway musical is a constantly evolving genre that is always finding new ways to entertain and inspire audiences.

The Broadway musical is a unique and beloved form of American entertainment. It has been captivating audiences for over a century, and it continues to be one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the world. Whether you are a fan of traditional musicals, contemporary musicals, or experimental musicals, there is sure to be a Broadway musical that you will enjoy.

Enchanted Evenings: The Broadway Musical from 'Show Boat' to Sondheim and Lloyd Webber

by Valerie Kim-Thuy Larsen

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12120 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	480 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE