Musicals; making a difference, one song at a time

Whether they are seen on stage, on television, or at the movies, musicals have grown more popular over the years. The Jazz Singer was the first to appear on the big screen in the late 1920s. Since then, musicals have become staples in America. Everyone enjoys music by various artists and entertainment from various actors; therefore, when these two are combined, audiences from all over can enjoy the actions and sounds of the story being told. Grease is definitely one of the most significant musicals because this one was able to draw in the younger crowd. This musical was released in the early 1970s and has such marvelous songs that you find yourself singing even years later. This musical incorporates dancing with singing, which may have paved the way for the future interest in dance movies that have been seen. Some examples of the dance films are Dirty Dancing, which is from the late 1980s, and Step Up, which is from the 2000s.

Dance films are not the only progression from musicals into the present. More musicals have become popular, and many have been created using songs by various artists. An example is the film Mamma Mia!, which was created using songs from albums by the artist Abba. These musicals have helped spark the interest of young people to sing, dance, or learn to play instruments. The creative minds of people around the world have been opened with the help of these films. The Sound of Music is greatly recognized by many, and is especially favorable for music instructors because of the song Julie Andrews' character sings for the do re mi syllables. This film was produced in the mid 1960s, before Grease. This films actually assists in teaching the audience about music. This film and the other films previously mentioned have set the path for the future of music. Many music artists are also actors and actresses before they pursue music careers.

Movies and even television shows have become popular ways to gain fame in the music industry. The path musicals have made, from Broadway, to the big screen, to television, has created the future of musical entertainment. Shows such as Glee have even inspired schools to begin their own Glee clubs to give students more opportunities to express themselves. Musicals, in my opinion, are important aspects of our culture and are excellent ways to show people the excitement singing and dancing can bring. Broadway, films, and television shows containing music numbers all help young people find ways to pursue their dreams and be confident in their creative nature. Music and dance are important forms of communication and expression; therefore, they are essential components in each of our lives.