Writing a Musical: Tips and Resources | Page 12 of 14

Writing for Today’s Musical Theatre Performer

Nov 11, 2018 | 5 |

There are a number of challenges musical theatre performers face in today’s industry. Most pressing are the vocal demands of a musical theatre score. Some contemporary scores require what is considered heavy vocal load singing for longer periods of time than is healthy. As writers, we have a responsibility not to normalize potentially dangerous vocal writing for the voice. We must take into account what the voice is capable of recreating 8 shows a week, whether on a Broadway stage or regional theatre. It is the highest sign of respect to the performing artists, who bring to life our characters, allowing them to tell their stories in more powerful ways.

When Supply Outstrips Opportunity

Oct 19, 2018 | 0 |

Musical Theatre composers and lyricists are living in challenging times, where audience demand to see shows starring a recognizable name has (somewhat predictably) spread across to the writing teams. We and other writers are making the most of the cabaret platform and the wonderful world of social media to reach our audiences, which involves writing pieces which are inherently theatrical but also stand alone.

Writing Lyrics: With a Song in Their Hearts

Oct 5, 2018 | 0 |

Steve Cuden offers his perspective on the kinds of storytelling suited to show tune lyrics. For anyone refining their lyric writing skills, or for those newly exploring how to write lyrics for musicals, Cuden brings up some important considerations.

I Want Songs in Context

Sep 24, 2018 | 2 |

One way writers can avoid musical muddle is to write a good I Want piece. The audience needs to know the longings of the central character by having him or her sing about what’s missing in their life. Since we tend to root for a character to get what they want, we become engaged.

What Makes A Great Musical

Sep 17, 2018 | 0 |

Great musicals all grab something inside us by elaborating on and shedding a bit of light on the human condition. It is why we are able to be transported, charmed, moved, and involved when the lights go down, and why we walk out of the theater exhilirated, thrilled, delighted, and, at times, devastated. We may all differ on which musicals do that to us, but we can agree that there is nothing like the impact of great musical theater.