Background: Les Miserables takes place around the June Rebellion and while much of the novel/musical focuses on the individual struggles of Valjean vs Javert and the love story of Cosette and Marius, the main historical plot line of revolution still plays a role. The song, Do You Hear the People Sing?, is arguably the political... Continue Reading →
Musical Song and Politics Analysis Episode 2- “Be Prepared”
Background: The Lion King story is pretty well-known, so I will just give a brief plot refresher to help put Scar's main song in context. Mufasa, Scar's older brother, competently rules over the pridelands, of which rulership will one day transfer to his son, Simba. Scar covets the position of king, and eventually will set... Continue Reading →
Musical Song and Politics Analysis Episode 1–Intro
Just in terms of sheer entertainment value, musicals are one of my favorite art forms. They also, due to their unique presentation format, provide the audience with an unfiltered and clear look into the progression of the musical's plot and the development of characters. Unlike in movies, where characters often conceal their thoughts, emotions, and... Continue Reading →