The Popularity of Taboo Musicals

Many people enjoy a good bout of musical theater every once in a while. Most people, at some point in their lives, will see a stage production, usually a musical or an opera. Lately however, a new kind of musical has emerged, the taboo musical. Taboo musicals follow the musical format, but usually have dark or controversial plots. They include shock shows and goth operas. Older generations do not seem to enjoy these shows but the younger generation has become fascinated with them. The success of some of these shows has led to a rise in the number of them. They will very soon, if not already, rival the traditional musical format.

Taboo musicals have a wide range of formats but there are some specific things about them that are usually found in all versions of the genre. All of them are controversial. They can have topics that most societies shudder to face. A taboo musical called "Cannibal: The Musical" focused on the subject of cannibalism, which many people criticized. Taboo musicals almost always face strong opposition from the religious community. In the case of "Jerry Springer: The Opera", Christian followers protested every showing and even threatened the cast. Ordinary citizens were bribed by church officials into avoiding the show. This is not unique to the Jerry Springer opera. Most taboo musicals work up quite a storm of protest.

An example of a taboo musical is, like I have stated in the previous paragraph, "Jerry Springer: The Opera". The opera was based upon Jerry Springer's real life show, which is just as controversial as it's musical counterpart. Although the show existed mainly to entertain Springer fans, it also criticized religion, especially Christianity. As a result, religious protest was strong. Another example would be "Repo: The Genetic Opera". This is set in a futuristic world of violence and blood. The themes of this show include our unhealthy reliance on science, what determines good and evil, and also what determines our humanity. Today the show and it's film have gained a cult following.

Many traditional musical lovers are very fearful about what effects taboo musicals will have on the theatrical community. They are afraid that the increasingly popular taboo format will rival or replace the traditional format. They also fear that people who see taboo musicals and dislike them will be very turned off to other musicals.

Whether anyone likes it or not, taboo musicals are becoming a progressive part of today's entertainment system. People are attracted to their "forbidden" topics and contribute every day to their rapid growth. Whether or not they will out do their traditional competitors is anyone's guess but one thing is almost certain. They are and will continue to be a large part of our society.

No sources other than prior knowledge were used in this article.