Appreciating Musicals

Musical Theater Opera-performance in which all or most of the story is sung Operetta-less serious form of opera with spoken dialogue

Musical Theater Musical Plays-pack meaning into stories, probe deep into the personalities of the characters, and present innovative music Musical Comedies-light in theme; feature comedy and songs woven into story Movie Musicals-movie version of musical

The Book Plot-route story takes from opening to conclusion Dialogue-conversation between the performers

Five Functions of Lyrics Express emotions Establish character Establish setting Establish theme Pacing and entertainment

Songs The composer must make the rhythm of the words fit the melody of the song. If the music is composed first, then the lyricist must make the words fit the rhythm.

The Score The overture is the orchestral music heard before the curtain opens. The first piece after the curtain opens is called the opening number. Reprise-song heard a second time in a musical

Dance Solo dance-expresses a performer’s thoughts or feelings without uttering words Ballet-can tell a story by itself without words using only movements of dancers

Dance Production number (chorus)-involves many dancers, is exciting to watch, requires much precision and practice

The Production Director-manages the stage production Producer-secures financial backing for the show Scenery helps establish setting and costumes make characters more believable.