This weekend (November 11th and 12th), the Illini Union Board is presenting “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a comedic musical about six misfit junior high students putting their spelling abilities to the test with three quirky judges. What better way is there to prepare for this upcoming event than by listening to some great songs from some other amazing musicals?
“Phantom of the Opera” – Phantom of the Opera
This movie adaptation of Christopher Lloyd Weber’s famous play is one of the most popular musicals to date. “Phantom of the Opera” is the most dramatic song, performed when the main character, Christine, meets the infamous “phantom” for the first time. The song has powerful and deep notes with alternating vocals to match, but what makes this song so different is its unusual style of rock.
“Defying Gravity” – Wicked
“Wicked” is a fantastic show with amazing musical numbers. One of the most popular and inspirational songs is “Defying Gravity.” While it begins as a conflict between two friends, it eventually evolves into the two friends making up and going their separate ways. The climax, which is in my opinion the best part of the song, is the final line when Elphaba sings “nobody in all of Oz, no wizard that is or was, is ever gonna bring me down.” The inspiring words give the listener the courage to live without limits and encourages her that no one can bring her down.
“Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’” – Oklahoma
Even though many people find “Oklahoma” to be a little embarrassing to like, they shouldn’t! Personally, it is one of my favorite movies of all time. “Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’” is one of the first songs in the 1955 classic. It is a peaceful song and puts you in a good mood whenever you listen to it.
“Cell Block Tango” – Chicago
“Cell Block Tango” feels like a real tango and shows that women can fight back. Each character in “Chicago” has her own monologue and explains how she ended up in prison. The powerful chorus then ties their pieces together. The majority of the song is spoken and therefore easy to understand, so enjoy listening over and over again.
A Little Priest – Sweeney Todd
“A Little Priest” is by far my favorite Sweeney Todd song, especially when Johnny Depp is singing it in the movie version. Even if you know nothing about the story, this song gives you a good idea. For example, the lyrics, such as those describing the townspeople, showcase the play’s dark and twisted humor.
So enjoy these musical favorites and be sure you check out “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” for more next week.