Jazz has long been an influence in musical theatre. Jazz techniques are commonly seen in musical theatre, and this is true for both the music and the dance.
In music, jazz has been an influence on composers since the early 20th century. Many of the classic musical theatre songs feature jazz-inspired elements such as syncopation, improvisation, and unexpected harmonic changes.
These techniques help to create a unique sound that is often associated with musical theatre. Jazz influences can also be found in more contemporary musicals such as Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen.
Jazz dance styles have also been used in many musicals over the years. Jazz dance is known for its high energy and intricate footwork, which can be seen in shows like West Side Story and Chicago. Broadway choreographers often draw inspiration from jazz styles such as Charleston, Lindy Hop, and Swing to create dynamic routines that help to tell the story of each show.
The combination of jazz music and dance helps to create an exciting atmosphere on stage that can captivate audiences. The juxtaposition of smooth rhythms with intricate footwork helps to create a powerful visual that helps make each show unique. Furthermore, jazz influences allow choreographers to explore different ways of telling stories through movement that can enhance a show’s narrative.
Conclusion: What jazz techniques do you see in musical theatre? From syncopated rhythms in the music to dynamic routines on stage, jazz influences are common throughout musical theatre productions both classic and contemporary. Jazz provides choreographers with a powerful tool for telling stories through movement while also providing audiences with a captivating atmosphere full of energy and excitement.