From
Stages To
Screens
Embracing Broadway & Theater in
Movies & Film
Ancient Greece
Since Ancient Greece, the mesmerizing art of theater has captivated and entertained audiences around the world. As society and technology have developed, the way we enjoy live theater has undergone a significant metamorphosis.
Amid recent decades, there has been an increasing accessibility of recorded theater. This has forged a synergy between live stage productions and cinema, and developed a new frontier for artistic expression. A major reason recorded theater has skyrocketed in popularity, is because of the convenience it offers audiences.
It enables theater and Broadway enthusiasts to enjoy extravagant live performances in the comfort of their home, without worrying about constraints brought on by finding tickets, show timings, and travel distance. Besides its accessibility and convenience, recorded theater is also significantly cost-effective, making it ideal for those looking to save a pretty penny!
The marriage between theater & film
The marriage between theater and film has additionally paved the way for musical film, a widely adored cinematic genre which involves adaptations from timelessly classic broadway shows, such as Les Miserables, West Side Story, Moulin Rouge, and many more!
In this jam-packed article, we embark on an in-depth exploration into the magnificent realm of Broadway, theater, and cinema, and showcase a plethora of magnificent musicals that you can watch at home!
The History of broadway movies & film
The history of Broadway’s influence in cinema dates back many decades, and has been impacted by technological advancements.
1927
The Jazz Singer
The most significant innovation which transformed cinema was the invention of synchronized sound in film. In the late 1920s, the world’s first feature-length musical film was released, entitled ‘The Jazz Singer’ (1927). It was during this era that musical movies rapidly grew in popularity, with an increasing number of Broadway shows and live musical productions being adapted into blockbuster films.
1929
The Broadway Melody
As the demand for musical movies continued to increase, filmmakers continued to incorporate choreographed dance sequels, dances, and dramatic dialogue into their work. By 1929, a classic musical entitled ‘The Broadway Melody’ won an Academy Award for Best Picture, marking a notable milestone for musical film.
The Golden Era of Musical Film
During the 1940s and 1950s, Hollywood continued to feed the masses with musical adaptations of treasured Broadway productions, including ‘Meet Me in St. Louis’ (1944), ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952), ‘Oklahoma’ (1955), and many more!
This golden era of musical film showcases elements that are synonymous with Broadway, including melodic musical scores, elaborate choreography, extravagant costume designs, and imaginative sets.
As the genre of musical film further progressed, Broadway was able to prosper beyond its limitations of the main stage and push boundaries, such as creating more elaborative set designs, experimenting with magical visual effects, and increasing audience reach, that have historically restricted the art of musical storytelling.
Where performance art has historically been limited to a physical theater and become a distant memory of the past, cinema has ultimately reshaped its longevity and immortalized theater altogether. Cinematic musicals create time capsules of the past, preserving performance art and ensuring its legacy lives on well after the curtains have fallen.
6 Show-Stopping Ways to Watch Plays
From attending glamorous live shows to snuggling on the sofa at home, when it comes to finding new ways to watch plays, we are truly spoiled for choice! Below, we detail 10 terrific ways that you can watch your favorite plays:
01 Local Theater Productions
Many communities have their own independent theater groups with performances of popular theater plays shown throughout the year. Local theater productions enable audiences to support local talent while simultaneously providing passionate individuals with a platform to showcase their talent.
Audiences also benefit from affordable ticket prices to watch both original productions and classic plays written by highly regarded playwrights, such as Shakespeare.
02 Touring Productions
You will often find major theater productions, such as ‘The Book of Mormon’, touring both nationally and internationally, bringing their sensational plays to audiences in different cities and countries. This enables audiences to enjoy high-quality performances in the comfort of their hometown.
03 Cinema Screenings
World-renowned theater shows are often recorded and shown in cinemas, allowing audiences to munch popcorn as they witness the brilliance of Broadway without the stress of fast-selling, costly theater tickets and traveling to far-away venues.
This format of theater encapsulated every element of a theater show, including elaborate sets, extravagant costumes, and close-up perspectives of actors, ensuring audiences don’t miss a single thing!
04 Broadcast & Television
Broadcast and television networks occasionally air live or recorded theater productions, allowing audiences to watch shows in the comfort of their home. Televised theater performance is more accessible, and therefore reaches wider audiences, providing individuals with outstanding performances without the burden of expensive tickets and traveling to venues.
05 Online Streaming Platforms
Online streaming platforms have revolutionized how audiences watch broadway and theater shows.
Digital streaming platforms, such as Netflix and Disney+, allow individuals to stream a selection of theater shows via several devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This allows audiences to watch iconic theater performances in the comfort of their home or whilst on-the-go.
06 Outdoor Theater
According to Roman history, the earliest theater performances were watched outdoors. Not only does the open-air setting of outdoor theater reconnect us to the heritage of live performance, it also fosters a magical experience, especially during warmer seasons. From parks to historical amphitheaters, there are many ways audiences can enjoy outdoor theater.
Tips on Finding Affordable Theatre & Broadway Tickets
With a bit of planning and research, you can make your theater experience both cost-effective and memorable. Below, we detail some helpful tips for finding affordable theater and broadway tickets:
Book Tickets in Advance
Ticket prices tend to rise nearer to a show date, which is why you should always plan ahead of time. Many ticketing platforms and theaters offer early-bird discounts, allowing you to avoid hiking prices.
Check Discount Websites & Apps
There’s a plethora of sites and apps that specialize in discounted theater tickets, such as Goldstar and TodayTix. These sites allow you to discover last-minute deals and exclusive special offers on Broadway and theater shows.
Sign-Up for Newsletters
Subscribing to newsletters of ticketing websites and theaters will keep you informed of exclusive deals, discounts, and promotions for upcoming shows. You can also sign-up for early-bird access, to ensure you get first picks on pre-release tickets.
Join Membership Programs
Some theater production companies offer memberships or loyalty programs. By joining these schemes, you can enjoy a variety of perks, including early booking access and discounted tickets.
Explore Lottery Tickets
You can find many lottery programs and raffles which randomly select individuals for significantly discounted tickets and sometimes even free tickets!
Check Eligibility for Discounts
Several theater production companies and ticketing sites offer exclusive discounts to specific individuals, such as seniors and students. Checking your eligibility and claiming discounts can save you a decent proportion of money on tickets!
Follow Theater Social Media Platforms
By following theater companies and ticketing services on social media, via Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook, you’ll be at the forefront of ticketing announcements, flash sales, discounts, and promotional codes.
Embrace Local Theater Opportunities
Although Broadway offers an extravagant, high-budget show, you’ll also find many show-stopping performances in your region, for a fraction of the price! This means you can enjoy exceptional performances and support your local theater scene without emptying your pockets on costly tickets.
Creating the Ultimate Theater Experience at Home
Thanks to streaming platforms, like Netflix, watching theater shows at home has never been easier! If you’re looking to bring the splendor of theater and Broadway to your home, there are a few essential elements, such as sound and lighting, to consider. Acknowledging these elements will help you curate the ultimate theater experience at home.
Cozy & Enjoyable
Theater shows often run for several hours, which is why comfortable seating is a necessity. Opting for purpose-made home theater seating, such as recliners and couches, will facilitate a cozy and enjoyable viewing experience.
You can’t enjoy a luxurious home theater experience without a high-quality audio and video set-up. Investing in a high-resolution television or a projector, will allow you to enjoy crisp visuals, ensuring you see every detail and vibrant color on set.
To create an authentic cinematic experience, you can pair your fancy screen with a surround-sound system. This will allow you to feel like you’re in the middle of a Broadway performance, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in every scene.
If you wish to further extend the novelty of enjoying theater in your home, you could go above and beyond and create a Broadway-themed cinema room.
Decorating with red velvet curtains, theater posters, show lights, and Broadway memorabilia, are some creative ways you can transform your home into your very own golden circle! For an added wow-factor, you can also create your own in-home bar and popcorn stand.
Best Classical Musicals
The 1930s through to the 1950s are considered the ‘Golden Age’ of musical film. During this period, many filmmakers began adapting classic broadway theater shows, such as ‘Oklahoma!’, providing audiences with glitzy, melodious movies. This era paved the way for many more classic musical films to arise.
If you’re in search of classic, authentic musicals, look no further! Discover the following most iconic musicals that you can watch at home:
Oklahoma!
Director – Fred Zinnemann
Film Synopsis
Set in Oklahoma right before it becomes an official state, two young men, Jud Fry (Rod Steiger) and Curly McLaine (Gordon MacRae) are entangled in a love triangle with spirited farm girl, Laurey Williams (Shirley Jones). In the pursuit for Laurey’s heart, tensions between the boys rise, forming a bitter rivalry.
Oliver!
Director – Carol Reed
Film Synopsis
Set in Victorian England, ‘Oliver!’ follows the journey of a young orphaned boy, Oliver Twist (Mark Lester), who escapes his harsh workhouse life to join a gang of pickpockets led by a greedy criminal mastermind called Fagin (Ron Moody). In the pursuit of love and family, Oliver tries his best to survive the brutal streets of Victorian Lonon.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Director – Ken Hughes
Film Synopsis
Eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts (Dick Van Dyke), and his two children, Jemima and Jeremy (Heather Ripley and Adrian Hall), discover an unusual old racing car with magical abilities which Caractacus names the ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.
Using their imagination, the family embark on a whimsical journey where they attempt to defeat the sinister Baron Bomburst (Gert Fröbe).
Singin’ in the Rain
Director – Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
Film Synopsis
Famous silent film star, Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly), faces challenges as the film industry transitions into talking pictures, or ‘talkies’. Amid the shift from silent film to ‘talkies’, Don’s studio decide to add sound to their upcoming film.
However, troubles arise as Don’s co-star, Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen), has an unbearable voice. In an attempt to conceal Lina’s true voice, Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), the love interest of Don, dubs Lina’s scenes and acts as her voice.
The Sound of Music
Director – Robert Wise
Film Synopsis
Set in Austria just before World War II, an aspiring nun, Maria (Julie Andrews), is sent by her convent to serve as a governess in the home of a stern widowed naval captain, George Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer) and his seven children.
During her time with the family, love blossoms as Maria grows closer with both George and the children. However, things get complicated when George is asked to serve the German Navy.
The Wizard of Oz
Director – Victor Fleming
Film Synopsis
Dorothy (Judy Garland) and her little dog, Toto, are swept away in their house to the mystical land of Oz, after a ferocious tornado tears through Dorothy’s hometown, Kansas. Hoping to return home, Dorothy journeys the Yellow Brick Road toward Emerald City to meet the Wizard who can help her return to Kansas.
During her journey, Dorothy encounters several atypical beings, including a Scarecrow (Ray Bolger) who’s in search of a brain, a Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr) seeking courage, and a Tin Man (Jack Haley) looking for a heart.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Director – Howard Hawks
Film Synopsis
An engaged showgirl, Lorelei Lee (Marilyn Monroe) is under scrutiny by the father of her wealthy husband-to-be, Gus Esmond (Tommy Noonan). Convinced that Lorelei is after Gus’s riches, his father hires a private detective, Ernie Malone (Elliott Reid), to spy on Lorelei and her friend, Dorothy Shaw (Jane Russell), during their cruise vacation.
West Side Story
Director – Jerome Robbins, Robert Wise
Film Synopsis
Applying the classic Shakespearian tale of ‘Romeo and Juliet’, ‘West Side Story’ showcases elaborate dance sequels depicting rising tension between two rival gangs, the ‘Jets’ and ‘Sharks’, as Maria (Natalie Wood), a Shark, and Tony (Richard Beymer), a Jet, fall hopelessly in love.
A Star Is Born
Director – George Cukor
Film Synopsis
Esther Blodgett (Judy Garland), an aspiring singer with profound talent, catches the eye of Norman Maine (James Maine), a famous actor who shortly falls head over heels in love. Norman uses his fame to help Esther succeed as a singer, but as Esther’s career skyrockets, Norman enters a downward spiral of alcoholism.
Les Misérables
Director – Lewis Milestone
Film Synopsis
Adapting the time-honored novel by Victor Hugo, ‘Les Misérables’ unfolds the tale of Jean Valjean (Michael Rennie), an ex-convict seeking redemption after serving a brutal prison sentence for stealing bread. As Jean tries to rebuild his life, he finds himself entangled in the politics and struggles of the French revolution.
Best Dramatic Musicals
Combining the beauty of song and dance with compelling narratives, dramatic musicals offer poignant storytelling and unforgettable melodies which harmoniously marry to create emotional and inspiring masterpieces. Here are five extraordinary dramatic musicals worth watching:
Respect
Director – Liesl Tommy
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ 2021
Following the rise of the iconic Aretha Franklin (portrayed by Jennifer Hudson), ‘Respect’ tells the incredible true story of how Aretha went from singing in her father’s church choir to becoming an international star.
As the tale of Aretha’s success unfolds, various challenges arise, leaving Aretha to overcome her demons and reconnect with her faith and resilience.
Dreamgirls
Director – Bill Condon
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ 2006
Adapted from the 1981 Broadway classic, ‘Dreamgirls’ tells the story of three ambitious Motown singers, Deena (Beyoncé Knowles-Carter), Effie (Jennifer Hudson), and Lorell (Anika Noni Rose), who form a musical trio titled the ‘Dreamettes’.
When showcasing their vocal gifts at a local talent show, ambitious manager Curtis Taylor Jr. (Jamie Foxx) spots their profound vocal abilities and offers the girls an incredible chance to support legendary star James Early (Eddie Murphy) as backup singers. As the trio embark on their journey toward fame, they learn that stardom comes at a cost.
Cadillac Records
Director – Darnell Martin
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ 2008
Telling the compelling true story of legendary record label Cadillac Records, we see Leonard Chess (portrayed by Adrien Brody), a Polish immigrant with an insatiable desire for prosperity, who buys Cadillac Records.
Leonard bankrolls the lifestyles of the label’s outstanding artists, such as Etta James (portrayed by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter) and Chuck Berry (portrayed by Mos Def), as they provide hit records all round. Diving into topical themes of racism and sexism, this musical drama portrays a thought-provoking biopic story.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Director – Bryan Singer, Dexter Fletcher
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ 2018
Focusing on the extraordinary life of British rock icon Freddie Mercury (portrayed by Rami Malek), ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ journeys you through a chronological timeline. From the formation of Queen in 1970 to the band’s Live Aid performance at the Wembley Stadium, every significant stage in Freddie Mercury’s life is shown.
The Greatest Showman
Director – Michael Gracey
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ 2017
Inspired by the life of P. T. Barnum (portrayed by Hugh Jackman), this musical biopic drama follows the life of an ambitious showman’s pursuit of creating an elaborate circus that celebrates the unique talents of individuals.
With societal criticism and personal challenges at play, Barnum embarks on an inspirational mission to prove everyone wrong, showcasing the power of kindness, love, and acceptance.
Best
Musical
Comedies
With ludicrous plots, wacky costumes, and witty punchlines, musical comedies are among the funniest genres of film available. Here are five rib-tickling films worth watching:
1986
Little Shop of Horrors
Director – Frank Oz
Adapting the classic Broadway show, this cheeky and charming musical comedy tells the story of Seymour (Rick Moranis), a flower shop assistant who finds himself caring for a strange talking and singing plant (Levi Stubbs), with an unquenchable thirst for human blood.
1980
The Blues Brothers
Director – John Landis
In an attempt to save their childhood orphanage, brothers Jake () and Elwood () Blues reunite their old band to host a fundraising show. Staring legendary rhythm and blues stars, such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Ray Charles, and more, this film showcases a jukebox of musical royalty.
1993
Robin Hood: Men in Tights
Director – Mel Brooks
In this comedic parody, Robin of Loxley (Cary Elwes) escapes prison in Jerusalem and returns to his home village. Upon his arrival, Robin discovers the tyrannical Prince John (Richard Lewis) and his henchmen have oppressed his homeland.
In an attempt to free the people of Nottingham, Robin assembles a band of misfit ‘men in tights’ to defeat the villains and restore justice.
2006
Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny
Director – Liam Lynch
Desperate to become the most legendary rock duo in the world, musicians JB (Jack Black) and KG (Kyle Gass) embark on a righteous mission to find a legendary guitar pick that possesses magical powers.
2014
Walking on Sunshine
Director – Dania Pasquini, Max Giwa
Bride-to-be Maddie (Annabel Scholey) prepares for her big day in Italy, oblivious that her sister Taylor (Hannah Arterton) and her fiance Raf (Giulio Berruti) have a romantic history.
· Best Romance Musicals · Best Romance Musicals · Best Romance Musicals
· Best Romance Musicals · Best Romance Musicals · Best Romance Musicals
Best
Romance
Musicals
Through emotive melodies and graceful choreography, romance musicals beautifully convey the passion, heartbreak, and intimacy of love. If you’re in the mood for some lovey-dovey goodness, here are five amorous musicals worth watching:
2004
The Phantom of the Opera
Director – Joel Schumacher
In this contemporary adaptation of the classic Broadway show, A disfigured Phantom (Gerard Butler) finds himself attracted to an opera house vocalist called Christine Daae (Emmy Rossum).
While trying to get closer to Christine, the Phantom discovers she is falling for arts benefactor Raoul (Patrick Wilson). Fearful of losing Christine to Raoul, the Phantom conjures a plan to keep Christine by his side.
2001
Moulin Rouge!
Director – Baz Luhrmann
Set against an opulent backdrop of lavish musical performances and rich visuals, Christian (Ewan McGregor), a young poet in Paris falls head over heels in love with a glamorous singer and courtesan called Satine (Nicole Kidman). However, with looming threats and challenging societal expectations, the couple’s romance is tested.
1990
Cry Baby
Director – John Waters
Combining comedy with romance, ‘Cry-Baby’ tells the tale of juvenile delinquent Wade Walker (Johnny Depp) wins over a prim and proper schoolgirl Allison Vernon-Williams (Amy Locane). Defying her mothers wishes, Allison pursues her love for Wade, causing a whirlwind of drama in their small town.
2016
La La Land
Director – Damien Chazelle
Two ambitious romantics, Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) and Mia (Emma Stone) find themselves drawn together by their common passion to pursue their dreams. However, as the pair experience growing success, they are faced with emotional challenges which threaten their love affair.
1978
Grease
Director – Randal Kleiser
Focused on the summer fling between a cheerful exchange student called Sandy (Olivia Newton-John) and a bad-boy named Danny (John Travolta), ‘Grease’ showcases the up and down drama of teenage romance and highschool in 1950 America.
Best
Family
Musicals
Musicals are a wonderful way of enjoying some special family time with your loved ones. Gather your youngsters and enjoy a cheerful sing-along to these top 10 family-friendly musicals
2006
Happy Feet
Director by – George Miller
Featuring some of the best cinematic music sequences, with original scores from legendary musicians, including Prince, Fat Joe, and P!nk, ‘Happy Feet’ tells the story of Mumble (Elijah Wood) a misunderstood penguin who lacks a ‘heart song’. However, what mumble lacks in singing he makes up for in tap dance, a skill he uses to win over Gloria (Brittany Murphy) a popular penguin with a remarkable voice.
Touching upon themes of animal rights, environmental conservation, and acceptance, this wonderful musical is both thought-provoking and enjoyable.
2006
High School Musical
Director by – Kenny Ortega
Two high school students, Troy (Zac Efron), a star athlete, and Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens), a straight A student, fall for each other and secretly audition for their high school’s musical show. However, the pair are faced with challenges, including jealous it-girl Sharpay (Ashley Tisdale) who conspires against the pair’s romantic relationship.
2005
Corpse Bride
Director by – Tim Burton, Mike Johnson
Victor (Johnny Depp) and Victoria (Emily Watson) are forced to be married by their families. Although Victor likes Victoria, he is overwhelmingly nervous about the big day.
To ease his nerves, Victor wanders through a forest at night where he practices his vowels with a tree. However, Victor awakens a corpse bride called Emily (Helena Bonham Carter), who drags him to the underworld.
2007
Enchanted
Director by – Kevin Lima
Bridging the gap between the real world and fairy-tale fantasy, a young girl, Giselle (Amy Adams), falls in love with a handsome prince, Edward (James Marsden).
As Giselle arrives at a castle to marry Prince Edward, his evil stepmother sends her to the land of ‘no happy ever afters’ (AKA New York City). Lost and afraid, Giselle seeks help from Robert (Patrick Dempsey), a moody divorce lawyer.
2005
The Muppets' Wizard of Oz
Director by – Kirk Thatcher
Reimagining the classic tale of ‘The Wizard of Oz’, this musical extravaganza offers a contemporary twist. Small-town girl Dorothy (Ashanti), who lives in Kansas, dreams of becoming a superstar in Hollywood.
One day a tornado strikes Dorothy’s town, transporting her to the magical land of Oz where she learns of a great wizard (Jeffrey Tambor) who can make any wish come true.
1993
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Director by – Henry Selick
Conceived by Tim Burton, ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ follows the misadventures of Halloween Town’s ‘pumpkin king’, Jack Skellington (Danny Elfman).
Bored of his regular spooky lifestyle, Jack wanders beyond Halloween Town and discovers Christmas Town. Plotting to take over Christmas Town, Jack kidnaps Santa Claus and takes over his merry duties.
2014
Into the Woods
Director by – Rob Marshall
Cursed by a formally beautiful witch (Meryl Streep), a hardworking baker (James Corden) and his loving wife (Emily Blunt) find themselves childless. In hopes of lifting their curse, the couple venture into the magical woods to find ingredients for a spell that can reverse the witch’s hex and restore her beauty.
1997
Anastasia
Director by – Gary Goldman, Don Bluth
This fantasy musical film follows a young orphaned girl named Anya (Meg Ryan), who embarks on a challenging journey to discover her true identity, after realizing she might be the long-lost Russian princess Anastasia. Navigating a series of fantastical forces, Anya must reconnect with her heritage.
1997
Hercules
Director by – Ron Clements, John Musker
Hercules (Tate Donovan), the son of legendary Greek God Zeus (Rip Torn), must live among demi-gods after being snatched as a child by the evil Hades (James Woods). Now a teenager, Hercules must prove his worthiness to live among the gods on Mount Olympus.
2009
Princess & the Frog
Director by – John Musker, Ron Clements
Set in the 1920’s New Orleans, this comedic, jazzy musical tells the story of hardworking Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) who has big ambitions to one day open her very own restaurant. Putting her dreams on hold, Tiana encounters Prince Naveen (Bruno Campos) who has been turned into a frog by the evil Dr. Facilier (Keith David).
Thinking Tiana is a princess, Prince Naveen kisses Tiana in hopes of breaking the curse. Instead, Prince Naveen passes the curse onto Tiana, also turning her into a frog. Together, the pair hop along to find voodoo priestess Mama Odie (Jennifer Lewis), hoping she can reverse the spell.
