A Journey Through Time and Theatre: My Top Musical Choices

Ever since I had the fortune of witnessing the original production of Cats in London, with the original cast performing practically at stage level, my love for musical theatre has been a significant part of my life. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of seeing numerous musicals, from West Side Story to Hamilton, each leaving a lasting impression. However, some musicals stand out for their brilliant storytelling, profound themes, and the innovative ways they advanced the art form.

My Top Six Musical Picks

Here are my top six musicals, a collection that has evolved over the years as I matured:

Cats was a special experience for me, with the performers walking behind the audience through the aisles, making it feel as if one were part of the show. This unique and intimate experience was magical and will never be replicated.

Other beloved musicals include Hamilton, which, despite its exciting narrative, didn’t quite capture the magic of my younger years. And of course, adding South Pacific to my list, as I lived through the Second World War, this musical holds a unique and important place in my heart.

A Delightfully Crappy Experience: Brigadoon

While it’s a rare occurrence that I fall in love with a musical because of its poor quality, Brigadoon stands out. I enjoy it precisely because of its quirks and strangeness. Watching it always feels like tuning into another dimension, a unique experience that keeps it close to my heart.

h?ng2Musicals with Serious Themes: A Mirror on Human Nature

What drives my love for these musicals is their serious themes, which not only advance the art form but also serve as a profound commentary on human nature. My top picks include A Chorus Line, Billie, Showboat, Hamilton, and Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake. Each of these shows excelled in multiple elements such as music, book, dance, acting, and production, creating a masterful blend that pushes the boundaries of theatre.

However, I’ve also been selective in choosing musicals that align with my value of hope and improvement. While Fosse is undoubtedly talented, the works under his direction often celebrate aspects of human nature that I find morally corrupt, such as Sweet Charity, Murder, Chicago, Pippin, and Cabaret. These shows focus on negative aspects of human behavior and depict a world without hope, which doesn’t resonate with me.

To me, it’s crucial that even the most genius of creatives are working towards bettering our lives, fostering hope, and showcasing the best in humanity. This is why my musical choices often reflect a desire for a brighter future and a reflection of the best parts of society.

Conclusion

My journey through musical theatre is a personal one, shaped by my experiences and the stories that resonate deeply with me. Each of these musicals has played a significant role in my life, and while tastes may change, these iconic productions stand as a testament to the power of theatre and its ability to touch our lives in profound ways.