Certain protocols are used in writing shows for musical theater, particularly children's theater. One of the most important is keeping the time between songs quite short. Another is to make sure to write enough "arias" or solo songs for the main characters so that the audience can get to know them and why they are important to the plot. But another is that the songs need an "ebb and flow." That means varying the mood, tempo, and style of the songs throughout the show. VARIETY is key to a good show.
For Stone Soup I tried to follow this formula to create songs that supported telling this story while firmly establishing it in the American Old West.
Opener - usually an upbeat song using much of the company that introduces the story and the players. (Over Yonder)
Aria #1 - usually a slow or thoughtful song where the main character opens up and the audience gets a glimpse into his or her character and emotions. This song could also be performed by the ensemble if it serves the same purpose which may be stating the "problem" of the storyline. (Sleepy Village)
Production Number #1 - sung and danced by the Ensemble reinforcing the PROBLEM of the storyline and getting the PLOT launched. Usually an intentional song with an agitated or fast tempo. (Trouble, Trouble, Trouble)
Aria #2 - another thoughtful or motivational song sung (at least partially) by a main character. Moves the PLOT along. (The Hungry Traveler)
Theme song - this song offers the solution to or the summation of the problem of the story. Could be sung by a main character and then joined by other members of the cast. (Stone Soup)
For Stone Soup I tried to follow this formula to create songs that supported telling this story while firmly establishing it in the American Old West.
Opener - usually an upbeat song using much of the company that introduces the story and the players. (Over Yonder)
Aria #1 - usually a slow or thoughtful song where the main character opens up and the audience gets a glimpse into his or her character and emotions. This song could also be performed by the ensemble if it serves the same purpose which may be stating the "problem" of the storyline. (Sleepy Village)
Production Number #1 - sung and danced by the Ensemble reinforcing the PROBLEM of the storyline and getting the PLOT launched. Usually an intentional song with an agitated or fast tempo. (Trouble, Trouble, Trouble)
Aria #2 - another thoughtful or motivational song sung (at least partially) by a main character. Moves the PLOT along. (The Hungry Traveler)
Theme song - this song offers the solution to or the summation of the problem of the story. Could be sung by a main character and then joined by other members of the cast. (Stone Soup)
Production Number #2 - a song or dance thrown in purely for entertainment's sake or to offer comic relief. This number may also showcase the talents of the dancers. (Happy Dance)
Reprise - sometimes one or more songs carries a message that is just so good it needs to be restated. (Stone Soup Reprise)
Finale - Usually reiterates the solution to the problem of the storyline. This is often an upbeat "power" song that guarantees thunderous applause and sends the audience out singing! (Cooperation)
Children's Theater shows are necessarily SHORT, so short songs are part and parcel for the course. When a show can be longer and have a more involved plot, the number and variety of songs can be expanded. Stone Soup is a show written for young actors (5-11 yrs) and takes less than 30 minutes to perform. The songs are varied and SHORT!
Reprise - sometimes one or more songs carries a message that is just so good it needs to be restated. (Stone Soup Reprise)
Finale - Usually reiterates the solution to the problem of the storyline. This is often an upbeat "power" song that guarantees thunderous applause and sends the audience out singing! (Cooperation)
Children's Theater shows are necessarily SHORT, so short songs are part and parcel for the course. When a show can be longer and have a more involved plot, the number and variety of songs can be expanded. Stone Soup is a show written for young actors (5-11 yrs) and takes less than 30 minutes to perform. The songs are varied and SHORT!
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