This past Sunday was the most magical evening. It's the one day of the year when the whole theater world comes to together to celebrate their successes. It's the day people anxiously wait for. Some people probably fast during this observance. There were tears shed for both joy and sadness. Was it Hanukkah in the summer? The Super Bowl? A Presidential Election? No.
It was the Tony Awards.
For those who have been living under an athletic rock, the Tony's is the day when theater professionals are recognized for all of their hard work for not only acting in plays and musicals, but also for their writing, directions, costumes, lighting, and so many more categories. In short, Hamilton swept the Tony's, including the award for Best Musical. Though the Tony's are over, here are some tunes to keep you in the Broadway spirit until next year!
Hamilton
A musical about America's ten-dollar founding father that has conquered the nation. This music is filled with rap and hip that breathes new life into this story of the fight for independence. This musical gives new light to patriotism in a time in which freedom has become selective. The cast defies casting stereotypes and opens the doors for so many people who never thought it was possible to be on Broadway. Some of the best album selections include "Alexander Hamilton," "My Shot," "You'll Be Back", "Satisfied," "Wait for It," and much more.
Waitress
Based on the film of the same name, this show tells the story of a young waitress named Jenna who dreams of escaping her abusive marriage through baking. Her situation gets more complicated when you throw in an unplanned pregnancy and an affair with her doctor. The music and lyrics were written by Sara Bareilles. Top songs include "Opening Up," "When He Sees Me," "Bad Idea," and "She Used to Be Mine." If you're looking for something catchy to sing along in the car to, then this cast album is for you.
Bright Star
Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this story of a young woman will be sure to capture your heart. With an unbelievable plot line, the musical showcases the life of one woman and the miraculous things that happen along the way. With the music of Steven Martin and Edie Brickell, the show takes bluegrass and folk music to a new level. The album features great songs such as "If You Knew My Story," "Bright Star," "Woah, Mama," and "At Long Last." This is one show that is sure to hit you right in the feels.
She Loves Me
This classic rom-com musical has been revived on Broadway featuring Laura Benanti and Zachary Levi in the lead roles of two co-workers who hate each other yet through anonymous letters, they are falling madly in love without knowing it. It's a funny and loving show with great numbers such as "Ilona," "Try Me," "Vanilla Ice Cream," and the title song, "She Loves Me."
Tuck Everlasting
Though this show did not make an appearance at the Tony Awards, the cast album is still one to check out. The story imagines the life of an immortal family and one girl who discovers their secret. The colorful numbers such as "Good Girl Winnie Foster," "Top of the World", "Partner in Crime," "Seventeen," and "Everlasting." These songs will leave you feeling like a kid again.
The Color Purple
The gripping show features some of the most beautiful voices I've heard. The Tony performance by this company was absolutely gorgeous! This is a story that has transcended from book to screen to stage and still maintains the key themes of love, sisterhood, and the power of women. Featuring song such as "Mysterious Ways," "Push Da Button," "I'm Here," and "The Color Purple."
The School of Rock
From the creator of Cats and Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Lloyd Webber, comes the musical about a teacher who forms a rock-n-roll back with his students. Based on the movie starring Jack Black, this show will definitely have you rocking out. These kids astound me with their voices and their instrumentation. With songs like "You're in the Band," "If Only You Would Listen," and "School of Rock" these songs will have to head banging for more.
So whether you are into classical music or more contemporary, Broadway has something for you. Just a give yourself a chance to try something new. To quote Hamilton, "Look around, look around! How lucky we are to be alive right now!"
