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It's time to look back at some more musicals. Today's post? The 1970s! There were many shows, but very few that I am familiar with. Due to this, there are only four on my list this week. A few more popular musicals from this decade, such as Chicago, I haven't completely listened to, so I decided to leave them off. Without further ado, into the psychedelic '70s we plunge.
4. Grease (1971)
Grease is not one of my favorite musicals. In fact, it is one of my least favorite of those I've seen. It tells the story of a naive and wholesome girl who met and dated a boy for a summer prior to the start of the show. When she moves to her new school, she is surprised to find that the same sweet boy she met at the beach attends her new school... but he isn't so sweet. In fact, he's one of the school's bad boys, and he doesn't treat her the same in order to protect his rep. The show portrays their struggles trying to work things out, the various problems faced by fellow students, and other high school drama. It ends with a message that isn't what you'd expect (and isn't very healthy). You should check it out for yourself, though. There are some catchy tunes. The video clip above is from the film version.
3. Evita (1978)
Evita is a musical based on the life of Eva Peron, wife of an Argentinian president, who fought her way from the bottom to the top before her early death. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, this show has plenty of potential and does have its good parts, but it still isn't one of my favorites. Highlights include Mandy Patinkin in the above video as the show's narrator, Che. You may recognize him from The Princess Bride, where he was the famous Inigo Montoya. There is also a film version starring Madonna.
2. Sweeney Todd (1979)
Do you have a thing for dark, brooding stories? Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street tells the story of a man wrongly convicted of a crime. He loses his family and barber shop. Years later, he returns with violent revenge and the belief that the world is full of evil people who deserve to die. Some of his customers got close shaves. The above video is from the film version and shows a young boy taken in by the titular character's partner claiming he will protect her. Of course, he has no idea she's in league with the guy who's making everybody disappear. Check it out for yourself. It's gritty and not for everyone.
Annie is the classic story of a spunky red-headed orphan trying to find her family. Most of us have probably seen at least one of the many film versions. This was one of my favorites as a child and still has a special place in my heart. The above video is from the original Broadway Annie, Andrea McArdle. If you enjoy classic underdog stories (or just cute kids), you're certain to love this show.
What is your favorite musical from this decade? Are you familiar with my choices? Do you have a better list?
