For actors from a play-based background who are interested in performing in musicals, shows based on the works of Shakespeare can be a great entry point. Since the source material has stood the test of time, actors can be assured that they will have lots to explore in songs from these shows. Here, I’ve highlighted five musicals that borrow from the Bard’s oeuvre. For each, I’ve identified three lesser-used but great songs from the show to get you started on exploring your Stratford-on-Avon-centric rep:
“West Side Story”Perhaps the best-known of the shows listed here, “West Side Story” is, of course, an updated telling of “Romeo and Juliet.” By setting the central conflict between Puerto Rican and “American” gangs, the creators sought to amplify the message from the source material about the dangers of prejudice and hate. (Seems kind of relevant right now, huh?)
Three great songs:
“Jet Song”: Riff’s verse of this song makes a great 32-bar cut, with a nice sustained F at the end.
“Something’s Coming”: Tony’s opening song can work in a male or a female voice and shows both patter and soaring high notes.
“I Have a
For actors from a play-based background who are interested in performing in musicals, shows based on the works of Shakespeare can be a great entry point. Since the source material has stood the test of time, actors can be assured that they will have lots to explore in songs from these shows. Here, I’ve highlighted five musicals that borrow from the Bard’s oeuvre. For each, I’ve identified three lesser-used but great songs from the show to get you started on exploring your Stratford-on-Avon-centric rep:
“West Side Story”Perhaps the best-known of the shows listed here, “West Side Story” is, of course, an updated telling of “Romeo and Juliet.” By setting the central conflict between Puerto Rican and “American” gangs, the creators sought to amplify the message from the source material about the dangers of prejudice and hate. (Seems kind of relevant right now, huh?)
Three great songs:
“Jet Song”: Riff’s verse of this song makes a great 32-bar cut, with a nice sustained F at the end.
“Something’s Coming”: Tony’s opening song can work in a male or a female voice and shows both patter and soaring high notes.
“I Have a
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