The Musical Of Wicked: Theatrical Categorical Musical

The Oxford Dictionary defines a musical as “A play or film in which singing and dancing play an essential part” (Oxford Dictionary, n.d.). In contemporary society, musicals can be seen to fit into two distinct categories: theatrical and motion picture. The notion of a theatrical musical has descended from the use of music and dance on stage in ancient Greece, 5th century BCE. However, it was during the depression that musicals hit the mainstream and the climax of their popularity as people would attend to escape the reality of their own lives. Today, musicals can be seen to have a place in cinemas, theatres and even schools and are a popular method of story-telling. Pertaining to prestigious theatrical musicals is that of The Wizard of Oz spin-off …show more content…
When the orchestra ceases to play at 0:37, the audience is given an opportunity to pause and absorb what has occurred thus far. It is after this pause that the music changes, allowing a reprieve from the intensity of the first forty-one seconds. A new melodic line is then introduced, providing a more hopeful tone then that of which has already occurred. This melodic line is somewhat of a staple throughout the musical of Wicked as it is reintroduced and reused many times throughout even being joined with lyrics. This first introduction of this melodic line provides a sense of hope as it distinctly juxtaposes the first theme of chaos. The percussion no longer provides the sense of disorder but is used to echo and emphasise the story that the orchestra is portraying. At 1:01, the melodic line ascends as the stage lights come up and the cast begin to sing at 1:08. The topic in which the cast are singing of at this point can be seen to be rather dire however this is interestingly contrasted with the tone of joy and excitement that is presented. Whilst the song is about the death of Elphaba, there is an overwhelming sense of happiness surrounding it which confuses the audience whilst capturing their attention. As the texture is thickening, the orchestra no longer carries the melody but rather provide an accompaniment to the voices. The first two lines ‘good news / she’s dead’ (1:07-1:14) …show more content…
At 1:38, the cast is visibly and audibly excited about the arrival of Glinda. This excitement is reflected through the orchestral parts as the flutes play lightly, this continues as Glinda begins to speak at 1:46. Overall these wind instruments are important in providing the undertone that this character is good. They continue to provide a sense of hope as the tone of the music is light and therefore associate this theme with the character of Glinda. This perception is clearly assisted through the cast and their emphasised perception of the Good Witch of the South. The audience is led to believe that Glinda is an important, and respected character through the combination of the orchestra and the cast. This is further illustrated at 1:52 as Glinda begins to sing instructions to the people. Not only do the cast intently listen and show respect but the sustained orchestral notes held underneath allow her voice to be the focus. This provides the representation that Glinda has the respect and attention of the orchestra also. The orchestra continues to hold these legato notes until 2:03 as Glinda holds a high note in her solo where the dynamics begin to crescendo and the orchestra can be heard to echo Glinda. This reflection of Glinda’s song in the orchestra further elucidates the notion that she commands the respect