I'm part of my school's theatre club. We've been searching for a new musical piece to perform. To get some ideas, I'm wondering, what are the most common or popular musicals performed by high school theatre groups?
Sure! High school theater companies tend to lean towards musicals that have entertaining and digestible storylines, mostly age-appropriate content, and can accommodate a large and varied cast.
One popular musical that fits this profile is "Into the Woods." This Stephen Sondheim musical intertwines favorite fairy tale characters and explores the consequences of their wishes and quests. It's engaging and allows for a large ensemble cast.
Another favorite choice is "Little Shop of Horrors," a campy horror musical comedy. The characters are quirky and fun, and the music has a catchy, soulful quality with clear '60s influences.
"Guys and Dolls" is a classic musical set in New York with a great set of characters. It's a '50s musical comedy that's still loved today.
"Fiddler on the Roof" is also a traditional choice. This musical tells the story of Tevye, a Jewish milkman in pre-revolutionary Russia, coping with the marriage of his three daughters and the challenges to his religious convictions. It features a strong central storyline and memorable music.
Lastly, "The Music Man" is another oft-performed piece in high schools due to its large ensemble, comedic leanings, and catchy songs.
Remember that choosing a popular play does not have to be the main criteria. The key should be how much your cast can connect with the material, how it accommodates your cast's strengths and talents, and what kind of story you want to tell.
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