Musicals That Have Shaped My Understanding of Self and Identity

Music and theater have always had a profound impact on me, and musicals in particular have been a source of profound reflection, helping me to understand my own sense of self. Even though I personally identify as a not-famous-person who’s often on the receiving end of imposed identities, specific musicals have offered me insights into my own identity.

Early Beginnings: Fiddler on the Roof

One of the earliest musicals that helped me understand myself was Fiddler on the Roof. As a child, my parents took me to see the musical, which I accepted as a documentary reflecting the experiences of my great-grandparents. It helped me see how and why different branches of my family got to America. Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha is another character that resonated with me because, much like the out-of-date knight, I can relate to holding on to outdated perspectives.

Personal Milestones Through Musical Characters

During my time in grammar school, a musical introduced me to the concept of identity and how it shapes who I am. One of the characters I identified with was Toto, a musical which helped me understand that I am Toto. In middle school, another musical, which I won’t name, taught me that I am Ben Rumsen. Later, in high school, I was introduced to John Adams from Pippin, which helped me understand that I am John Adams.

There’s a particular line that makes me chuckle: “Ain’t that right, fellas.” This line from the High School Musical series highlights the relatability of the characters to my own life. The lyrics and choreography in these musicals played a significant role in helping me make sense of my identity.

The Impact of High School Musical

High School Musical I and II are my absolute favorites. The lyrics, which are incredibly relatable, helped me connect with the characters and their struggles. The choreography in the high school musicals was particularly memorable for me. Specifically, my favorite choreography involves the HSM dance routine, which I had the pleasure of performing. It was a moment of great pride for me, bringing the HSM experience to life on stage.

These musicals are more than just entertainment; they are a journey of self-discovery and understanding. They offered me a platform to relate to the characters and their journeys, which in turn helped shape my own sense of self and identity.

Conclusion

Music and theater have always been important to me, and musicals have played a significant role in helping me understand who I am. From Fiddler on the Roof to High School Musical, these works have not only entertained but also provided me with a lens through which to view and shape my identity. While identity has been imposed on me, these musicals have helped me see aspects of myself that resonate deeply.

So, while I may not be a famous person, the characters and stories within these musicals have been my own personal journey of self-discovery and understanding. Who knew musicals could be so impactful?

Thank you for the question, anonymous. It resonates with me and reminds me of the stories that have helped me navigate my identity.