Good topic to compare/contrast Broadway musicals?

Question

I have to write an essay on anything relating to music. Since I am a huge fan of Broadway musicals, I thought I'd tie it in. Any suggestions of composers to do, or shows in particular? Thanks!

For example, I would compare and contrast Stephen Shwartz's music in his older shows to his new ones. Or I could c/c two people like Sondheim and Shwartz's music.

Answer 1

Comparing Sondheim to Larson (who won a Sondheim award at one point) may be interesting. Rent is certainly Sondheim-esque.

You may also consider comparing operatic type musicals: Phantom vs. Les Miz vs Jekyll and Hyde, etc.

But I think what would be most interesting is the progression of story-telling in musicals from the 40's and 50's through modern times. If you look back at "radical" shows of the times, like Showboat and Carousel, they seem tame next to Rent and Urinetown. But, on the other hand, there seems to be a resurgence to more accessible material, even that which has social overtones, such as Hairspray or even Producers. It may prove an interesting topic.

Answer 2

Why don't you compare the works of Andrew Lloyd Webber with those of Rogers & Hammerstein? Two eras, the two most succesful composers, different approachs, etc. There are many characters you could compare, and the styles, so different.

Answer 3

it would seem that there would be more disparity between Sondheim and someone like Jerry Herman.

Sondheim and Schwartz songs rarely are able to be taken out of context ... which makes them exceedingly similar (although the tunes are quite different indeed)

Answer 4

Stephen Scwartz, or even Andrew Llyod Webber- Opera, jazz, musical, pop. He writes tones of different styles, and they all become very popular!!!