Revues
A light theatrical entertainment consisting of a series of short sketches, songs, and dances, typically dealing satirically with topical issues.
Classic Composer/Lyricist Revues
These focus on the catalog of a specific songwriter or team:
- Side by Side by Sondheim: Highlights the work of Stephen Sondheim.
- Ain't Misbehavin': Celebrates the music of Fats Waller.
- Red Hot and Cole*: Featuring the songs of Cole Porter.
- Jerry's Girls*: Showcases Jerry Herman’s music.
- Oh, Coward!*: Based on the words and music of Noël Coward.
Themed and Era Revues
These center on a musical style, era, or thematic concept:
- Smokey Joe's Cafe*: A 1950s/60s rock 'n' roll revue.
- Blues in the Night*: Focuses on1920s/30s blues music.
- 4 Guys Named José... and una Mujer Named María*: A Latin American revue.
- SHOUT! The Mod Musical*: Focuses on 1960s British pop music.
Modern/Contemporary Revues
These are often themed around a modern songwriter or a conceptual idea:
- Songs for a New World*: A musical revue by Jason Robert Brown.
- Closer Than Ever*: Featuring lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr. and music by David Shire.
- Make Me a Song: The Music of William Finn*: A revue of William Finn's work.
- Sondheim on Sondheim*: A multimedia look at Stephen Sondheim's life and work.
Educational/Junior Revues
Often used for schools and youth theaters, these are available through providers like Music Theatre International:
- Broadway Junior Revue: Pure Imagination*
- Broadway Junior Revue: Raise Your Voice*
- Disney's Dare to Dream JR.*
Common Characteristics of Revues
- No Central Narrative: Unlike a book musical, there is no ongoing story, although songs may be thematic.
- Minimal Dialogue: Focuses on musical numbers, often featuring a small cast of singer/dancers.
- Varied Song Usage: Uses a mix of solos, duets, and ensemble numbers.
- Thematic Focus: Often based on a central theme (e.g., heartbreak, the city) or a specific artist.