Musical – the story of the development of a musical genre

In today’s world, if you suggest to someone to attend the opera, operetta, or a musical, they are more likely to choose the latter. It is essential to understand first and foremost what types of musical-theatrical genres exist, why they are massively popular, and which ones are worth attending.

Firstly, it is crucial to start with the main point. A musical is a musical-theatrical work. Secondly, it combines dramatic, musical, vocal, and choreographic arts. Thirdly, modern forms, for example, musicals in Europe, stand out for their dynamism, brightness, and spectacular nature. Visiting such performances will truly allow one to enjoy the action happening on stage. Audiences will also appreciate the actors’ performances, their dance movements, interesting stage decorations, as well as the original costumes worn by all participants in the production.

Why are modern musicals popular in Europe?

Modern musical-theatrical works distinguish themselves with an extensive array of options and features, providing writers the ability to craft dynamic, dance-filled, and captivating scenes. This makes them more accessible to audiences, contributing to their popularity in Europe. The factors driving their appeal in Europe include:

• they always tell a meaningful story;
• the narrative unfolds through songs;
• typically, the plot is straightforward;
• there’s active stage action;
• appropriate music is always played, and so on.

Musicals have their roots in light musical genres such as vaudeville, burlesque, and operetta, although each has significant differences. Operetta is based on symphonism, maintaining a structured form and libretto. Burlesque is a lively performance or comedy that takes place directly on stage with dance accompaniment. On the other hand, a musical involves theatrical scenes accompanied by carefully selected music. The evolution of the creative industry continues to progress. Modern shows are fascinating because they resemble discos, concerts, and rock operas.

What features should you know?

Musicals were established in the distant year of 1943. At that time, Broadway saw the premiere of the play “Oklahoma!” by R. Rodgers and O. Hammerstein. The production captured the audience’s interest and stood out with its seamless, subtle dramaturgy, a synergy of various artistic forms such as acting, music, vocals, movement, dance, and more. Following the success of this play, which received two Oscars and remained on Broadway for many years, a new era in global theater began. Subsequently, musicals gained popularity worldwide and continue to be sought after among contemporary enthusiasts of creativity and the arts.