Topics covered include:An introduction to the vocal mechanismReleasing tension from the body and the voiceWarm-up exercises for groups and individualsExercises for improving techniqueInterpreting and shaping a song for musical theatre performanceTechniques for exploring character in songSongs in different styles including rock, pop, character and comedy
Musical theatre is often perceived as either a Broadway based art form, or as having separate histories in London and New York. Written and developed for undergraduate students of musical theatre, this introductory textbook explores how, in reality, there have been frequent and substantial interactions between the West End and Broadway (and elsewhere) out of which musical theatre has developed, and through which it continues to transform
Focusing on the emotional engagement of audiences, the book delves into the vibrant world of musical theatre in London's West End and Broadway. It examines how vocal, musical, and visual elements create pleasure, while initially discussing the crafted text before shifting to performance and audience interaction. By doing so, it redefines musical theatre, challenging the notion that it is merely a form of entertainment and highlighting its deeper connections with viewers.
Bringing critical theory and musical theatre together, Millie Taylor and Dominic Symonds explore the musical stage from a broad range of theoretical perspectives. Part 1 focuses on the way we understand musicals as texts and Part 2 then looks at how musical theatre negotiates its position in the wider world.
Focusing on the Royal Shakespeare Company's evolution since 1961, the book explores the development of theatre music composition and sound design. It highlights the interplay between historical practices and modern technology, showcasing how different interpretations of plays have shaped styles and genres. The emergence of actor musicianship and the transformative role of sound designers are emphasized. Additionally, it connects musical theatre to Shakespeare's works, illustrating the RSC's innovative approach to expanding creative collaboration in theater.
Rodgers and Hart contributed dozens of hits to the Great American Songbook. We'll Have Manhattan focuses on the first twelve years of their collaboration (1919-1931), documenting their little-known early work and providing a critical and analytical commentary on their developing practice and its influence on the American musical.