Broadway has long been synonymous with extravagant sets, intricate costume design, and compelling storylines. Concert-structured Broadway shows add to this beloved formula with unfiltered musical performances reminiscent of your favorite pop and rock concerts.
Concert-structured Broadway shows, as the name implies, adopt the format and feel of a concert rather than a traditional theater production. Sometimes, the performers even interact directly with the audience, breaking the 'fourth wall.' The concept of concert-structured Broadway shows is not new. The roots of this format can be traced back to the rock musicals of the 1960s and 70s, like Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar.
Exploring the Musical Phenomenon of SIX
SIX is a prime example of the concert-structured Broadway show that has taken the theater world by storm. This contemporary retelling of the lives of the six wives of Henry VIII presented as a pop concert, has gained unprecedented acclaim. The brainchild of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, SIX started as a student production at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and has since evolved into a global phenomenon.
In SIX, each wife is portrayed as a member of a pop group, with their individual songs reflecting both their historical experiences and modern pop anthems. The show is structured as a concert, with each queen taking turns to grab the microphone and tell her story in a bid to win—i.e. have the most tragic story. The minimal staging keeps the focus on the music and the performers, making you feel like you are enjoying a live concert.
SIX features an original score by Marlow and Moss. Each queen in SIX is given a distinct musical style that reflects a specific pop diva. For instance, Anne Boleyn's number, "Don't Lose Ur Head," channels the spirit of Avril Lavigne and Lily Allen, resulting in a catchy pop anthem with a rebellious edge. Jane Seymour's ballad, "Heart of Stone," echoes Adele, while Anna of Cleves's "Get Down" is reminiscent of the anthems of artists like Nicki Minaj.
SIX's reception has been overwhelmingly positive. The live original Broadway cast recording of the show debuted at #1 on Billboard's Cast Album charts. The albumwas streamed over 3.5 million times within just two weeks of its release. SIX also found a new and enthusiastic audience on the social media platform TikTok. The show's catchy tunes and feminist narrative have resonated with TikTok's young user base, leading to a surge in user-generated content related to the production. TikTokers have been sharing their own renditions of songs from the musical, cosplaying as the characters and even creating their own choreography.
MJ the Musical: A Dynamic Tribute to the King of Pop
MJ the Musical is another exciting Broadway show that will make you feel like you are at a live concert. The show celebrates the life and career of one of the most iconic figures in music history, Michael Jackson. Created by Lynn Nottage and directed by Christopher Wheeldon, MJ the Musical offers a journey through the King of Pop's transformative music career.
MJ the Musical features many of Michael Jackson's greatest hits. The show features some of his most iconic songs, including "Smooth Criminal," "Thriller," and "Billie Jean."
However, the show is not merely a concert but an exploration of the artist's life, his struggles, and triumphs.
Elijah Reah Johnson's portrayal of Michael Jackson in MJ the Musical is a pivotal element of the show's success. Aided by costumes and makeup, Johnson strikingly resembles the King of Pop. Coupled with his stellar dancing and singing skills, Johnson takes the show to a new level.
The reception of MJ the Musical has been beyond positive. Audience reviews have offered particular praise for Johnson's performance as Michael Jackson, calling his portrayal "phenomenal." Reviewers have been quick to point out that Johnson's performance is not just a mere imitation but a heartfelt tribute that captures the essence of Jackson's artistry. The music and choreography in the show have also received high praise, with audiences remarking that MJ the Musical is enjoyable for both long-time fans and those unfamiliar with Jackson's life.
So what makes these concert-like Broadway shows so special? These productions tap into the nostalgia and love for popular music genres and iconic artists, creating a bridge between concert and theater experiences. Moreover, these shows have made Broadway more accessible to a wider range of audiences, including those who may not typically attend traditional theater productions. By featuring popular music and adopting a concert-like format, these shows have attracted music fans, younger audiences, and those who are new to theater.
If you haven't yet experienced a concert-structured Broadway show, now is the perfect time. Whether you're a seasoned Broadway enthusiast or a newcomer to the theater scene, these productions promise a memorable experience. Plus, with Broadway Inbound’s group discounts, you can take your friends or family along as you head out for a night of unforgettable theater.