There are some shows that stick with me because they have a poignant message behind them. Here are a few examples of my favourite shows that address important social issues and why they are still relevant today.
Hairspray
Photo credit: https://www.celebrityradio.biz/review-hairspray-the-musical-uk-tour-2016/ This feel good musical is based on the 1988 film with the same name and became a successful film adaptation in 2oo7 . Set in 1960s Baltimore, it tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a young girl who dreams of starring on the Corny Collins show but unfortunately is put down because of her appearance. When she finally lands the role, she users the power she has and attempts to integrate both black and white kids on the show which leads to social change across America. This show important tackles issues such as race and body image which are still important and relevant today. The female lead Tracy is bubbly, feisty and outspoken and is happy with her body regardless what people say about her which is refreshing to see.
2. Heathers
Photo credit: https://www.whatsonstage.com/shows/west-end-theatre/heathers-the-musical_170363 The highly anticipated musical made it’s way to London in June 2018, then transferred to the west end in September 2018 which I was lucky enough to watch a performance. This show stuck out for me not just because of the amazing cast, costumes, set and soundtrack but the message it projected. For those who haven’t heard of this show, it is based on the 1988 film and stars Carrie Hope Fletcher as Veronica Sawyer. It tells the story of Veronica who longs for popularity and is sick of being tormented like her friend Martha. She finally joins the ‘Heathers’ the most popular group of girls in Westerberg high and meets Jason Dean (JD), a mysterious boy who convinces her some people are better off dead. After bumping off a few classmates, Veronica realises what JD is doing is wrong and puts a stop to it. The show does tackle some heavy issues such as bullying, teen suicide and violence in schools. For me personally, it was refreshing to see the female lead Veronica portrayed as clever and feisty who owns up to her mistakes . Not to mention the belter songs such as ‘Dead Girl Walking’ and ‘I Say No’ which no doubt have you rooting for her. The show really resonated with me because of the messages delivered in the show as anyone can relate to being a teenager in high school.
3. Les Miserables
Photo credit: https://discover.ticketmaster.co.uk/theatre/les-miserables-42907/ One of the most classic and timeless musicals up there with Phantom of the Opera is Les Misérables is based on the French novel with the same name by Victor Hugo. It first debuted in the West End in 1985. I have been fortunate to see this show and let me tell you it did not disappoint, it definitely lives up to it’s expectations. For those who haven’t seen the film or heard of the show (have you been living under a rock?!) set in 19th century France, it centres around Jean Valjean who spent 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread to feed a family member. After he is released he seeks redemption to become a better man but is relentlessly tracked down by Javert, a police inspector. He meets numerous characters who help and impact his life and these events take place during the French Revolution. In my opinion, this musical conveys a powerful message from start to finish about the strength of the human spirit and how people fought to survive. For me, the whole show is spectacular, the vocals, costumes and set but as well as the heartfelt characters such as Fantine and Eponine. Both female characters go through hardships during the show but it never dampens their spirit even when they feel most vulnerable. They both deliver belter songs such as ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ and ‘On My Own’ which I think represents their inner strength and empowers them considering the societal roles during the time.
4. Wicked
Photo credit: https://www.twitcelebgossip.com/30449-alice-fearn-and-sophie-evans-to-remain-as-leads-in-wicked-at-londons-apollo-victoria-theatre/ One of the most ‘popular’ musicals of all time made it’s way to the West End in 2006 and I have been fortunate to see this production but wouldn’t think twice about seeing it again. This show took my breath away when I first saw it; the costumes, set and performances are just magical and as the audience you feel transported into another world. The story is the prequel to the Wizard of Oz and centres around the characters Elphaba and Glinda and how they became known as the ‘Wicked Witch of the West’ and ‘The Good Witch’. What I love about this show is the depiction of the female characters as Elphaba and Glinda are portrayed as strong and fearless women and equals, even if one is smart and the other is popular. I think the show has a lot of heart as it highlights the importance of female friendships which is rarely seen in theatre. Not to mention the songs, the belter that Elphaba sings at the end of Act 1 ‘Defying Gravity’ if that doesn’t scream empowerment, I don’t know what does. In my opinion, she is the strongest character of all and smart but ostracised because of her her green skin, her good intentions backfire but if anything that makes her more determined to succeed, a lesson we could all learn from.
Theatre with Eva 