In recent years, the world of musical theatre has witnessed an intriguing evolution: the emergence and popularity of one-off concert performances. These events, where musicals are presented in concert form rather than as fully staged productions, have captured the imagination of theatre enthusiasts and casual fans alike. But what has led to this trend and what makes these concerts so appealing? Let’s delve into the phenomenon and explore its impact on the theatre landscape.
What Are One-Off Concerts of Musicals?
One-off concerts of musicals typically involve a live performance of the musical’s score, often with the original cast or renowned performers, accompanied by an orchestra. Unlike traditional stage productions, these concerts usually forgo elaborate sets, costumes, and choreography, focusing instead on the music and vocal performances. Sometimes, the concert is semi-staged, with minimal props and movement to suggest the story. Sometimes these concert stagings are true “one-offs”, running for just one day, or they may have a strictly limited run, such as the New York City Center’s Encores! Series which run for two weeks only.
The Allure of One-Off Concerts
- Star Power and Unique Casts: One of the biggest draws of concert versions of musicals is the opportunity to see star-studded casts. Producers often assemble a dream team of actors, sometimes reuniting original cast members or featuring celebrities who might not be available for a full run. This creates a unique and often unrepeatable experience for audiences.
- Accessibility: For both producers and audiences, one-off concerts are more accessible. They require less time and financial commitment than traditional productions. This allows for high-quality performances without the extensive rehearsal periods and production costs associated with full-scale shows.
- Focus on Music and Performance: By stripping down the theatrical elements, these concerts highlight the music and vocal talents of the performers. Fans of musical theatre relish the chance to experience their favorite scores in a pure, unadulterated form, often with orchestras that might be larger or more prestigious than those available for regular productions.
- Nostalgia and Special Events: These concerts often tap into nostalgia, bringing back beloved shows for a single night. They also serve as special events, drawing in audiences who seek a unique cultural experience. Whether it’s celebrating an anniversary of a musical or presenting a forgotten gem, these concerts provide a platform for celebrating the art form in new and exciting ways.
The Benefits for Producers and Performers
- Flexibility and Innovation: For producers, one-off concerts offer a chance to be innovative and experimental without the risks associated with a full production. They can test new material, explore different interpretations, and attract diverse audiences.
- Career Opportunities for Performers: Performers benefit from the visibility and prestige of these concerts. It provides them with opportunities to showcase their talents in new ways, collaborate with esteemed colleagues, and engage with different types of audiences.
Examples of Successful One-Off Concerts
Merrily We Roll Along at New York City Center (2012)
As part of its Encores! series, New York City Center presented a concert version of George Furth and Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along. This production starred Lin-Manuel Miranda, Celia Keenan-Bolger, and Colin Donnell, offering a rare opportunity to see the challenging and rarely performed musical… until, of course, the recent fully-staged revival on Broadway this year! The 2012 concert format allowed the intricate score and complex narrative structure to shine, showcasing Sondheim’s genius.
Indeed, the intention of the Encores! concert productions is to revisit the archives of American musical theater and spotlight the vocal talents of star-studded ensembles alongside the Encores! Orchestra. This year’s concert staging’s featured Once Upon a Mattress, Jelly’s Last Jam, and Titanic.
Wild About You (2024)
Sometimes, one-off concerts provide the perfect platform to premiere a brand new musical that has not yet had a full run. This may be due to financial backing, the need to test material, or to assess audience engagement with a new show. In March this year, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane hosted the world premiere of Wild About You, a new musical in concert with music and lyrics by Chilina Kennedy and a book by Eric Holmes. The show had previously been workshopped at New York Theatre Barn’s New Works Series in 2022 and the 2023 concert was a star-studded affair, featuring Eric McCormack, Rachel Tucker, Todrick Hall, and Jamie Muscato. No further plans for a production have yet been announced.
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane also hosted two in-concert performances of the brand new musical Treason in 2022. This was the first live performance following a streamed concert in 2021. The show then went back into workshop development before announcing its world premiere in 2023.
Les Misérables: The All-Star Staged Concert (2019-2021)
After the Queen’s Theatre (now Sondheim Theatre) closed for renovations, Les Misérables was performed as a staged concert at the Gielgud Theatre in London. Although this was not strictly a “one-off” concert, it was a one-off decision to keep the show running in an alternative format. This production featured a stellar cast, including Alfie Boe, Michael Ball, Carrie Hope Fletcher, and Matt Lucas. The concert format highlighted the powerful music and emotional performances, drawing rave reviews and overwhelming audience enthusiasm. Due to its success, the concert was extended and filmed for subsequent cinema screenings and home releases.
Of course, due to its celebrated longevity, Les Misérables, is no stranger to a one-off concert performance. The 10th and 25th anniversary concerts of the West End production were staged at the Royal Albert Hall and London’s O2 respectively. Both featured star-studded casts and highlighted the phenomenal international success of the show.
West End Concerts
And of course, let’s not forget that London’s West End has had a positive boom in one-off musical theatre concerts in the last couple of years. From Once at the London Palladium (2023, starring Carrie Hope Fletcher and Jamie Muscato), to Love Never Dies at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane (2023, starring Norm Lewis and Celinde Schoenmaker), to the upcoming concert staging of Ghost this October at the Adelphi Theatre (starring Oliver Bowen Tompsett and Lucie Jones). London loves a one-off concert!
The Future of Musical Theatre Concerts
The trend of one-off concerts shows no signs of slowing down. As the theatre industry continues to adapt and evolve, these concerts offer a dynamic and flexible way to celebrate musical theatre. They provide a space for creativity, nostalgia, and pure musical enjoyment, attracting new audiences and keeping the magic of theatre alive.
By focusing on the music, bringing together stellar casts, and offering unique, accessible experiences, these concerts have carved out a special niche that both honors and reinvents the tradition of musical theatre. As we look to the future, it seems clear that the allure of these events will continue to captivate audiences and inspire the next generation of theatre lovers.
