Playlist III: Notable Creatives
Important writers, directors, and choreographers we’ve yet to meet
Thus far, we’ve looked at 14 songs/shows that changed the game forever and 13 songs that have left an indelible cultural footprint. If you were to unfollow me right now and never read another word, I would rest easy knowing that you’re equipped with a broad understanding of some of Broadway’s most important people and ubiquitous hits. “But wait!,” I say as you walk towards the door, “there are a few more people I really want you to know about before you go.”
Notable Creatives focuses on the essential creators we should learn about and celebrate before moving on to other topics. In Turning Points, the songs served as delegates to represent a show that was the main discussion topic. In Songs Everybody Should Know, the show was sometimes incidental, as the song itself had a life of its own. Here, the narrative for each profile will focus more on the Notable Creatives being highlighted, with songs/shows selected to highlight their most iconic contributions to the Broadway Musical.
What Defines a Notable Creative?
Generally speaking, this list includes people who are responsible for at least two Broadway musicals that are still somewhat regularly produced or discussed today. (Though my gut check and arbitrary whim carries just as much weight as this metric.) Sometimes I will be highlighting the whole creative team, sometimes just select individuals. While orchestrators, musical directors, designers, producers, cast members, and stage mangers also play pivotal roles in a show’s genesis, for the purposes of this list, the “creative team” refers to the writers, director, and choreographers. Ultimately, as is the case with all playlists in this project, the theme is a framework to explore some great songs, not a definitive statement as to who is and is not “Notable.”
Previously Mentioned Notable Creatives
I consider the following previously mentioned artists to be “Notable Creatives” per the criteria defined above:
John Kander and Fred Ebb
In the Wings
Next week will be an off week, so song No. 28 will drop on (approximately) Oct 22.
While you wait, a reminder that you can:
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Catch up on previous playlists: Turning Points and Songs Everybody Should Know
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