Introduction to StarKid Musicals
Are you a fan of StarKid musicals? Their vast catalog of works, available for free on YouTube, has captured the hearts of countless theater enthusiasts since their inception. But which ones truly stand out among the crowd?
Ranking StarKid Musicals
The rankings below are subjective based on several factors, including their watchability, complexity, and overall impact. Here's a list of their most popular musicals:
A VHS Christmas Carol (2020/2021): A Live-Streamed Christmas Tale Nerdy Prudes Must Die (2023): A Lively Tribute to Fandom Firebringer (2016): A Duet of Talent Black Friday (2019): A Relatable and Entertaining Tale The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals (2018): A Humorous and Insightful Creation Twisted (2013): A Show Featuring Dylan Saunders Holy Musical (2012): A Journey Inspired by AVPM Trail to Oregon (2013): A Show Overrated by Some Starship (2011): A Hit Due to the Track "Kick It Up a Notch" A Very Potter Senior Year (2011): A Semistaged and Underbaked Project A Very Potter Sequel (2010): A Tributary to AVPM Me and My D (2010): A Feel-Uncomfortable Piece A Very Potter Musical (2009): A Not-So-Compelling YouTube Debut ANi (2014): Not a Star Wars Enthusiast's Pick ANI 2 (2014): A Doppelganger of ANiMythological Musical Choices
When it comes to my personal favorites, I've found that some mythological productions truly ignite the imagination. Here are a few standouts:
FOLLIES (1971): A Classic with Distinguished Performances (e.g., Dame Diana Rigg) BLOOD BROTHERS (1984): A Universally Admired Story SWEENEY TODD (1979): A Thrilling Tale with Multiple Productions (e.g., Stephen Sondheim) INTO THE WOODS (1986): An Enduring Gem with Multiple Productions and Adaptations (e.g., Stephen Sondheim) ASSASSINS (1990): A Darkly Fashionable Musical SHOW BOAT (1877): A Timeless and Iconic Production L’IL ABNER (1951): A Humorous and Lyrical ComedyThese works, with their rich storylines and memorable performances, continue to captivate audiences and stand as benchmarks in the world of musical theater.
Contemporary Favorites
Recently, I had the pleasure of listening to the CD of BE MORE CHILL (2012) for the first time. To my surprise, it exceeded my expectations, with a refreshing and engaging storyline. Other favorites of mine include:
BONNIE AND CLYDE: THE MUSICAL (2014): An Excellent West End Production BRIDGES ENCOUNTER (2009): A Stupendous West End Production by the Kneehigh CompanyAdditionally, I must mention the following classic musicals that remain near and dear to my heart:
The Phantom of the Opera (1986): An Enduring Masterpiece Man of La Mancha (1965): A Timeless Adventure Godspell (1971): A Chemically-Charged Religious Canvas Jesus Christ Superstar (1971): A Passionate and Fervent Story West Side Story (1957): A Great Success with Stunning Elaborate ChoreographyPersonal Musical Favorites
It's incredibly difficult to choose one favorite from my extensive list. However, West Side Story (1957) holds a special place in my heart for several reasons:
Leonard Bernstein's Music: His compositions are masterful and timeless. Jerome Robbins' Choreography: His innovative and dynamic choreography brings the story to life in a profound way. Amazing Dancing by Eliot Feld: Not only a master of choreography but also started his own ballet company later.Other musicals that are close to my heart are:
Kiss Me Kate (1948): With a Great Cole Porter Score and a Shrewd Musical Flavor of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew On the Town (1949): With Music by Leonard Bernstein and a Wonderful PlotThese are the musicals for which I have a special fondness and continue to enjoy.
Conclusion
No matter where you stand on these rankings, it's clear that both StarKid and mythological musicals have something unique to offer. Whether it's the humor of StarKid's humor or the depth of a mythological tale, there is always a story that captures the spirit of this beloved form of entertainment. Which musicals have left a lasting impression on you?