Is Musical Theatre Representational or Presentational?

Musical Theatre|Theater

It is undeniable that theatre is a powerful medium for storytelling and expression. In the last century, musical theatre has become an increasingly popular form of entertainment, combining music, dance, singing, and acting.

But what is the purpose of musical theatre? Is it representational or presentational?

The answer to this question depends on the type of show. Some musicals are based on stories that are meant to be reflective of real life situations and characters.

These shows often contain moments of insight and emotion that can be used to explore a variety of ideas and feelings. This type of musical theatre is representational, as it seeks to accurately portray characters and situations from a particular time period or culture.

On the other hand, some musicals are more focused on spectacle than substance. These shows often contain fantastical elements such as magical creatures or extravagant costumes, and can be seen as an escape from everyday life. This type of musical theatre is presentational, as it seeks to provide entertainment rather than make any kind of statement about reality.

Ultimately, both representational and presentational forms of musical theatre can be successful if done correctly. Representational shows can provide an opportunity for audiences to ponder important questions about life, while presentational shows can provide an exciting escape from reality. It all depends on what kind of story the creators are trying to tell.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, musical theatre can serve both representational and presentational purposes depending on its content. By blending music, dance, singing, and acting into a single production, creators have the ability to craft stories that move audiences emotionally while also entertaining them with dynamic performances.