musical review

CRITIQUE / REVIEW

One of the most important aspects of your understanding the form of musical theatre is related to your ability to critique the work of all involved. I always find it a bit amazing that students have difficulty analyzing a play or movie when they’re forced to, but can very easily offer opinions following a night out with friends.

A critique is a personal opinion that questions choices and their success, and also praises moments when it all comes together in whatever area--design, direction, acting, writing, choreography.

The things that you must always ask yourself when critiquing is WHY?

Why did that actor fit the part well? Why did you not like the music? Why did the evening seem to fly by? Why did you laugh, cry, fall asleep?

Seeing a live performance is a unique experience.  Rather than a movie, these are real people gathering to risk in front of you. It is sometimes a great experience and sometimes a terrible experience.

For me seeing a play is a big chance. Seeing a bad movie is easy, you can just not commit to it. But when you are seeing a bad play it is painful because those are real people.

Now, you are going to critique a live performance. (Please note: if you are unable to see a live musical theatre performance in your area, you may review the live musical recording of Shrek or othe r musicals as detailed on the syllabus.)

Here is a review that does not answer the questions WHY? In this video, the viewer offers his reaction to seeing a new musical but doesn't offer much support.