Alex Westerman Creative Director

Category: Musical Theater

"My Favorite Things": How John Coltrane Reimagined a Broadway Classic

“My Favorite Things”: How John Coltrane Reimagined a Broadway Classic

Key Takeaways John Coltrane’s “My Favorite Things” revolutionized jazz by transforming a simple Broadway tune into a profound spiritual experience. He utilized its repetitive structure and emotionally neutral melody to explore complex moods within a meditative framework. This innovative approach,…
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The Coolest Debate: Fosse, Robbins, and the Rhythmic Connection Between "West Side Story" and "Sweet Charity"

The Coolest Debate: Fosse, Robbins, and the Rhythmic Connection Between “West Side Story” and “Sweet Charity”

In my last discussion, I dove into the fiery rooftop debate between West Side Story’s “America” and Sweet Charity’s “There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This.” That comparison, a visual parallel between two masters, is a favorite among theater fans.…
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Homage or Rip-Off? A Deeper Look at the Choreographic Connection Between "Sweet Charity" and "West Side Story"

Homage or Rip-Off? A Deeper Look at the Choreographic Connection Between “Sweet Charity” and “West Side Story”

Two rooftop settings. Two iconic musicals. Two unforgettable dances. Is “There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This” a tribute to West Side Story’s “America,” or too similar? Explore the debate and analysis of the iconic choreography here. Both “There’s Gotta…
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people performing on stage

Why Straight Plays Matter: The Importance of Dramatic Literature

The debate over Straight Plays1 vs. Musical Theater2 is fundamental. It merits serious consideration regarding the significance of these two art forms in modern society. For centuries, plays have acted as a vital medium for expressing societal struggles, ideas, and…
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