Pre-History
- In the early phases of theatrical development, Greek Tragedy was chanted or sung, and music played a crucial role in enhancing the overall impact.
January 01, 2024
Ancient Greek Drama
- The roots of musical influence in drama can be traced back to ancient Greek times, where Greek Tragedy involved chanting or singing.
January 01, 2024
Opera
- Examining the historical context, opera shares a lineage with ancient Greek drama, where music played a significant role in the expression of emotions.
Ballad Opera, Operettas
- Throughout different eras, ballad operas and operettas mirrored the integration of music and drama, drawing from liturgical dramas to vaudeville influences.
January 01, 2024
Vaudeville and the Follies
- Vaudeville, a prominent American entertainment form from the 1890s to the First World War, marked a turning point in mass entertainment, characterized by celebrity culture, affordability, and self-promotional marketing.
January 01, 2024
Burlesque
- Burlesque, introduced in the 1840s, gained popularity with Lydia Thompson and the British Blondes. Over time, it evolved into a nuanced art form, experiencing a resurgence in the 1990s.
January 01, 2024
The First Musical
- "The Black Crook" in 1866 is considered the first American musical, blending a complex plot with elements of black magic, fairies, and extensive dance numbers.
January 01, 2024
The Fathers of the American Musical
- The collaborative efforts of Jerome Kern, Guy Boulton, and P.G. Wodehouse birthed the book musical, epitomized by "Show Boat" in 1927, which also marked the inclusion of African American actors.
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II
- Rodgers and Hammerstein, with "Oklahoma!" in 1943, ushered in the Golden Age of Musical Theatre, addressing societal issues through intricate characters and dance.
Sheldon Harnick and Jerry Bock
- Sheldon Harnick and Jerry Bock, renowned for "Fiddler on the Roof," explored themes of resistance to assimilation, blending pain and joy in their compositions.
John Kander and Fred Ebb
- Kander and Ebb, known for "Cabaret," brought forth dark social commentary through sentimental music and biting lyrics.
Stephen Schwartz
- Stephen Schwartz, with notable works like "Godspell" and "Wicked," crafted emotionally charged music with widespread appeal.
Stephen Sondheim
- Stephen Sondheim's intricate compositions delved deep into the human condition, evident in pieces like "Giants in the Sky" and "Getting Married Today."
Andrew Lloyd Webber
- Andrew Lloyd Webber's diverse musical influences, showcased in "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Phantom of the Opera," reflect his melodic prowess.
Lin Manuel Miranda
- Lin Manuel Miranda broke racial boundaries with works like "Hamilton," resonating with diverse audiences.
Jeanine Tesori
- Jeanine Tesori, the first female composer with two Broadway musicals simultaneously, seamlessly blends genres in works like "Fun Home" and "Shrek the Musical."
January 01, 2024
The 1960s Rock Musical
- "Hair" in 1968 marked a shift in musical genres, introducing rock musicals that often dispensed with spoken dialogue, paving the way for productions like "Cats," "Les Misérables," and "Jesus Christ Superstar."
January 01, 2024
Musicals Based on Existing Materials
- Many musicals draw inspiration from various sources, ranging from novels (e.g., "Ragtime" and "Les Misérables") to autobiographies (e.g., "Gypsy" and "The Scarlet Pimpernel").
January 01, 2024
Jukebox and Bio-Musicals
- Jukebox musicals like "Mamma Mia!" and bio-musicals like "Jersey Boys" explore popular music catalogs and real-life stories, respectively, through the medium of musical theatre.