"Why Aren't They Talking?": The Sung-Through Musical from the 1980s to the 2010s

The book musical is the most common form of structuring musicals in American theater, but after 1980, sung-through musicals emerged, which challenged the balance between talking and singing. These musicals, composed and premiered between 1980 and 2019, use specific procedures and compositional techniques to establish characterization and expression through music, reinventing the musical for the twenty-first century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In the captivating world of American musical theater, a prevalent form of musical structure has emerged as the book musical, where songs seamlessly intertwine with spoken dialogue, enhancing the portrayal of characters and dramatic situations. However, the landscape of musical theater underwent a transformative shift after 1980, giving rise to a new genre that pushed the boundaries of the book musical's aesthetic conventions. Enter the realm of sung-through musicals, a captivating subgenre that dared to challenge the traditional balance between talking and singing in musical theater. These innovative scripts, composed entirely or nearly entirely in song, pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling, employing music as a powerful means to convey characterization and emotion. While often associated with British musicals, this element specifically focuses on American sung-through musicals that emerged and thrived between 1980 and 2019. These creative teams have ingeniously employed specific procedures and compositional techniques to redefine the musical's essence in the twenty-first century. Through their innovative approach, music becomes the primary medium for establishing character and expressing emotions, even when spoken dialogue is minimal or absent. This groundbreaking reinvention has breathed new life into the art form, allowing musicals to transcend linguistic barriers and engage audiences on a deeper emotional level. As we delve into the world of sung-through musicals, we witness the profound impact of music on storytelling, as it weaves a tapestry of emotions and narratives that leave a lasting impression on audiences. These musicals have not only redefined the boundaries of musical theater but have also contributed to its continued evolution and growth, making it a vibrant and dynamic art form that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Weight: 115g
ISBN-13: 9781108791939
Edition number: New ed