Critics at Large | The New Yorker cover image

After “Wicked,” What Do We Want from the Musical?

Critics at Large | The New Yorker

CHAPTER

The Evolution of Emotion in Musicals

This chapter examines the development of heightened realism in musicals, emphasizing the emotional resonance of songs within narrative contexts. It reflects on the historical progression of the genre, from early thematic simplicity to the complex social issues represented in works like 'Showboat' and 'Oklahoma.' The discussion also covers contemporary hits like 'Hamilton' and 'Wicked,' analyzing their cultural impact and the balance between performance technique and narrative depth.

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