This summer, I saw the Clarke Theatre’s musical production of Ride the Cyclone (2008). As a former theatre kid, everything from the flashy set, fun choreography, and captivating songs reignited my passion for musicals. As I walked out of the theatre, I was left wondering how anyone could possibly dislike them.
The hate for musicals has unfortunately gotten to the point where movies like Wonka (2023) and Mean Girls (2024) actually hid the fact that they were musicals for as long as possible before their release.
Listen, given that movies are often expected to appear more realistic than stage musicals often are, I can somewhat understand the disdain when the two collide in movie musicals. However, to those who claim to hate musicals in general, I advise them to check out a live performance. Not only is watching actors sing and dance right in front of you instead of through a screen more personal, it’s also more fun.
