Many people are unaware that Broadway musicals are more profitable than movies, television, or music. Despite their profitability, there is a stigma that Broadway is a niche market for intellectuals, homosexuals, and the lovers of fine arts. Looking back, this was not always the case, and it still isn’t. Even though people perceive it to have a stigma, Broadway musicals have and always will be loved by all (one but has to look at the massive popularity and respect Long Beach’s own Musical Theatre West garners). Movies have traditionally been a great way of bringing musicals to the public, especially those who can’t afford to go to a broadway show. West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, and Hello Dolly! are successful examples of beloved Broadway shows that were made into hit films. Today, a new trend is developing that is revolutionizing the way people see musical theater: television.
It started with Glee, a show that defied the odds to become one of the most successful programs on television today. Glee has figured out a way to make musicals and glee clubs cool again, while at the same time developing a way to create unprecedented music sales consistently each season. Every time they do a Broadway number on Glee, such as “Rose’s Turn” from Gypsy, or “Buenos Aires” from Evita, they spark an interest in their audience to go find out what these shows are about. They are exposing younger generations to musicals in a new way that is popular and cool.
If it wasn’t enough to have Glee, now there is a new show breaking ground: Smash. For the first time audiences can get a look into all the steps that go into making Broadway a reality, from the song and story development to the harsh world of auditions and casting calls. One very clever move the producers made was casting Katherine McPhee as one of the leads in the show. With the overwhelming popularity of American Idol, it is strategic to have someone the public knows to help introduce the stage to the screen. The show, like Glee, also has a mix of original music with pop songs that people can recognize.
Smash is just another way that people can become more aware of musicals and allow them to become an enriching part of their lives. I can only look ahead and feel excited for the shows and movies to come that celebrate the wonderful musicals that bring joy to my life.