Musical theater

High school (ages 12+)
Art & Creativity

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/musical-theater

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the notable innovators?Stephen Sondheim (composer/lyricist), Rodgers and Hammerstein (composer/lyricist duo), Lin-Manuel Miranda (composer/lyricist/actor)
2. How do songs help tell the story in a musical?Songs in a musical are not just fun; they show what a character wants, show big moments, and remind the audience of important ideas. A song called an "I Want" song tells us what the character hopes for. A song at eleven o'clock is the biggest emotional moment.
3. Who are some famous people who made musical theater special?People like Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Lin‑Manuel Miranda have made musical theater special. They wrote songs, stories, and dances that many people love. They also used new music styles to keep shows fresh.

Book Musical: A musical where the plot and character development are central, with songs and dances integrated into the narrative.
Score: The complete musical composition of a musical, including all songs and instrumental music.
Libretto: The text of a musical, including spoken dialogue and song lyrics.
Eleven O'Clock Number: A climactic song, usually sung by the protagonist, that occurs late in the second act of a musical.