Broadway is coming to your doorstep!
French-speaking Switzerland is currently experiencing an unprecedented boom in interest in musicals. A boom that fills up the theaters and floods the training courses with registrations. This cultural effervescence is very pleasing and we will try to understand the ins and outs of this phenomenon.
A little history...
It all started a long time ago, in the dark recesses of London and New York theaters. In the 19th century, as the world was immersed in the excitement of the Industrial Revolution, a new form of theatrical expression began to vibrate on the stage: the musical. Imagine characters expressing themselves by singing, dancing, and telling their stories through haunting melodies! The actors of the time would launch into exuberant performances and take the audience on a whirlwind of emotions. The first musical to make its mark was "The Black Crook" in 1866, a work so spectacular and extravagant that it became a reference in the genre. This daring production blended elements of ballet, drama and song to create a grand spectacle. The public demanded it! By the turn of the 20th century, musicals were taking off with such iconic creations as "Show Boat" (1927) and "Oklahoma!"
But the real revolution in the musical took place in the 1940s and 1950s, when great creative geniuses stormed the stage. Names like Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Jerome Robbins and Cole Porter marked this era with their spectacular productions.New York and London became the true temples of the musical. Broadway and the West End attracted crowds eager for entertainment and glamour. The great musicals had become a social phenomenon, captivating audiences around the world. Iconic shows such as "The Sound of Music" (1960), "West Side Story" (1957), "My Fair Lady" (1956) and "Guys and Dolls" (1950) were created. These plays were true popular hits, transcending borders and touching the hearts of all who saw them.
A demanding field
Musical theatre is demanding because it combines dancing, singing and acting. It is this combination of disciplines that makes musical theatre difficult to master.
Musical theatre performers must be talented singers who can project their voices and perform different musical styles. They must also be good dancers, able to perform complex and synchronized movements with precision. In addition to this, they must be able to deliver effective comic performances, exploiting comic timing and having a convincing stage presence.
Coordination between music, dance and dialogue is essential in a musical. Actors must be able to synchronize their dance movements with the music and lyrics, while remaining true to their character. This coordination requires intensive training and precision. Musical theatre also requires physical and vocal endurance. Performances can be energetic and demanding, with dance and song numbers that can last for several hours. Actors must be in excellent physical condition to maintain the quality of their performance throughout the show. In addition, they must take care of their voices and avoid vocal fatigue. Rehearsals are another demanding aspect of musical theatre. Actors must memorize many lyrics, dance moves and stage directions. Rehearsals can be long and intensive, requiring total commitment from the performers. Despite the difficulties, musical theatre offers a unique and rewarding artistic experience. Artists who enter the genre must demonstrate dedication, passion and perseverance to master the various disciplines and deliver memorable performances that delight audiences.
Musicals in Switzerland
One must admit that for a small country like Switzerland, the offer in terms of musicals is rich. Many companies exist in the French-speaking part of Switzerland: Evaprod in La Chaux-De-Fonds, Comédie Lyrique in Geneva, TJP in Pully, Barnabé theater in Servion or the Academy of Musical Comedy in Courage. Because of the growing cultural offer, performances are springing up all over the region and attracting a new public. Some companies propose shows with budgets ranging from 200'000 to one million CHF, dizzying amounts that result in high quality shows. Musicals are full of special effects, adventures, and crazy sets. To hope to compete with Broadway, you need the means! Even if the final result is still far from what can be done in London or New York, it is in the DNA of the musical to send glitter in the eyes of the audience.
Reasons for a new craze
In view of the growing offer, the competition between companies is very present. It is therefore essential for them to offer a high quality of teaching. Internships are extremely popular with people of all ages. Indeed, for some it is a discovery experience, for others it is a way out. Indeed, working on the boards gives you freedom to play a character that is not you, to dare to launch yourself into the unknown without judgment. This disconnection from everyday life and yourself is something to look forward to! As far as the younger ones are concerned, social networks play a big role. Indeed, we see more and more viral videos that showcase the preparation and performance of actors. The tik tok dances being a foundation of the application; the musical lends itself well for this "trend".
Theater at Apolline?
At Apolline, we offer acting classes at all levels and we listen to the needs of your children! Don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your needs.
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