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The Guardian view on new musicals: sex, drugs and song ‘n’ dance

Adaptations of hit novels like One Day and Trainspotting help keep the genre in tune with the times

The Guardian view on new musicals: sex, drugs and song ‘n’ dance

TL;DR

  • Adaptations of novels like "Trainspotting" and "One Day" are becoming popular in musical theatre.
  • The genre is evolving to include contemporary issues, such as internet addiction, alongside traditional themes.
  • Opera is also exploring modern, impactful stories, moving beyond elitist perceptions.
  • While adaptations are a safer bet for expensive productions, original works like "Six" can still emerge.
  • Musicals offer a form of escapism and emotional connection, allowing audiences to feel complex thoughts through song.