
Take, for instance, the musical Parade. I love the music for this show, but I've never seen it. It hit Broadway in November of 1988. It had 39 previews and only 84 shows despite the amazing music and a fair amount of good reviews. It's also won numerous awards -- so why, you're probably asking, did it close so early?
The problem is the controversy.
It's mostly because it's based on a true and tragic story, the kind that people are not likely to want to admit occurred or could occur. It's a horrid retelling of a murder, a trial, and another murder.

What also makes this play so controversial is that it examines all kinds of prejudices -- sexism (which is found mostly in the protagonist for an interesting twist), racism, anti-semitism, classism, even some prejudice based on region (North vs. South). And it examines all of these in song -- many of which are perfectly upbeat and cheerful. I mean, there's a cakewalk at the end of the trial.
It definitely takes the stereotype that musicals are cheerful, light fluff and turns it on its head.
Oh, if I could sing I would love to be in this show! After, of course, I succeed in my dream of playing Prior, Joe, or Louis in Angels in America. It's too bad I'm utterly tone deaf. :-P
1 comment:
It looks like a good Broadway show. Perhaps i should see it when i go to New York next month.
As for singing mate, you should get yourself some lessons and you could be starring in it!
I would offer to give you some lessons but i have a voice that even has cats running for the hills.
Hugs
Kev in NZ
Post a Comment