Jukebox musical

Definition

A jukebox musical is a theatrical production that uses previously released popular songs as its score, rather than original music created specifically for the show. This style often weaves together a narrative using the familiar tunes, making the production appealing to audiences by drawing on the nostalgia and recognition of these songs. Jukebox musicals can range from biographical representations of artists to original stories built around existing hits, showcasing the evolution of how music can shape storytelling in theater.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The jukebox musical gained popularity in the late 20th century, with shows like 'Mamma Mia!' and 'Jersey Boys' leading the way in bringing this style to mainstream audiences.
2. Unlike traditional musicals that feature original scores, jukebox musicals rely on pre-existing songs, which can sometimes lead to challenges in creating a cohesive narrative.
3. Many jukebox musicals are based on the lives and careers of famous artists or bands, using their catalog of hits to tell their story or celebrate their music.
4. The use of well-known songs in jukebox musicals can enhance audience engagement, as spectators often have an emotional connection to the music being performed.
5. Jukebox musicals have contributed significantly to the commercialization of musical theater, attracting both theater enthusiasts and casual fans through their familiar soundtracks.

Review Questions

• How do jukebox musicals differ from traditional musicals in terms of their musical score and narrative structure?
  • Jukebox musicals differ from traditional musicals primarily because they utilize previously released popular songs instead of original compositions. This can result in a unique narrative structure where the plot is often crafted around existing hits rather than being built from scratch. As a result, while traditional musicals may follow a more linear storytelling approach with original music supporting character development, jukebox musicals often focus on connecting these beloved songs into a cohesive experience, which can sometimes challenge narrative coherence.
• Discuss the impact that the rise of jukebox musicals has had on audience engagement and commercial success in theater.
  • The rise of jukebox musicals has significantly increased audience engagement due to their reliance on familiar songs that evoke nostalgia and emotional connections. This has led to broader appeal and commercial success, attracting not only theater aficionados but also casual attendees who may not typically attend live performances. By leveraging popular music, these productions often sell out and draw larger crowds, ultimately enhancing profitability and encouraging producers to invest in this genre within the theater industry.
• Evaluate the implications of using pre-existing songs in jukebox musicals on the creative process and artistic integrity of musical theater.
  • Using pre-existing songs in jukebox musicals raises interesting questions about creativity and artistic integrity. On one hand, it allows for unique interpretations and revitalizations of classic hits within a new context; however, it may also limit originality since much of the work revolves around rearranging or adapting existing music. This can lead to debates over whether these productions maintain true artistic expression or merely capitalize on commercial viability by relying on familiar tunes. The balance between innovation and tradition becomes critical as theaters navigate this evolving landscape.

Related terms

Original Cast Recording: An album that features the songs performed by the original cast of a musical, capturing the sound and essence of the production.

Biographical Musical: A musical that tells the life story of a specific individual or group, often incorporating their own songs and music into the narrative.

Concept Musical: A type of musical that is organized around a theme or idea rather than a traditional narrative structure, often using songs to explore various aspects of that concept.