top of page
Writer's pictureChyina Powell

Soundtracks of Life

Who here likes musicals?

Well, I do. And so for my first installment, I am going to give you a list of some of my favorite musicals. Plus, just a few of the reasons why they are my favorite.

Finding Neverland

  1. It has a beautiful story to tell: that of James Barrie and his inspiration for Peter Pan.

  2. Although there are some sad moments, the overall plot is comforting.

  3. The musical composition and choreography are off the charts, no matter which production you go to. The music is really intriguing and the actors use the entire stage, as well as light and shadow as a character in the plot.

  4. It is realistic and yet so fantastical. It almost blurs the line between where the play ends and where Barrie’s story begins. I have always loved the idea of a play within a play.

Wicked

  1. Based off of the book by Gregory Maguire, this musical tells the story of The Wizard of Oz in a new way.

  2. Elphaba is relatable. She is an environmentalist and cares about animal rights.

  3. The song “Defying Gravity” is inspiring and can get anyone through a tough day.

  4. Although the book was better, I appreciated the way the musical ended.

Little Shop of Horrors

  1. This is part of my childhood. I have always loved this musical and first came in contact with it through the film adaptation starring Rick Moranis and Ellen Greene.

  2. The main character is a nerd. We nerds have to stick together, lol.

  3. The concept of a plant from outer space is pretty darn cool.

  4. The song “Now (It’s Just The Gas)” is hilarious and spine-chilling all at the same time..

So, if you never seen a musical, maybe it is time to check one out. They are a fun experience, you become fully immersed in what is happening before you. Your eyes glide across the stage with wonder as songs come to life and magic truly happens. And no matter how many times you see the same show, it will be different. That is the beauty of the theater, you never see the same show twice. Whether an understudy is taking over for a lead role or the cast is completely different. Even seeing the same show right after another, it will be different. When actors are on the stage, they act as befitting the audience and the audience is always different.

Plus, there are musicals out there for everyone. We all have things we enjoy or care about and if you care about it, someone out there does too.

And I know that there are those who believe a play and a musical are the same thing but they couldn’t be more wrong. Tennis and basketball both happen on a court, they both have balls and they are both sports but they are not the same thing, are they? Maybe try out a musical. And although Hollywood is beginning to do a lot of film adaptations, many cut out important scenes, characters and songs. You aren’t getting the full experience unless you see it on the stage or, in rare cases, a recording of the stage production.

Do you have a favorite musical? If so, please share it with me. Have you seen one of the musicals above? How did you like it?/

2 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page