“It was only in the theatre that I lived.” – Oscar Wilde
Musical theatre. It’s a wonderful element of the world that everyone looks to for entertainment, a night out with friends, and a place to find comfort. Everyone looks at it in different ways and it holds a lot of different purposes; but whatever the reason, it has changed people, and impacted them immensely. Our lives as a society have been ultimately shifted by this popular art form.
It is important to know the history behind this beloved form of entertainment; however, the true upbringing of musical theatre is not what most people think.
The History & The Past
According to Cedarville University, the U.S had taken inspiration mainly from European influences, such as opera and comic opera. But then, from the nineteenth through twentieth centuries, American composers began to contribute unique American voices to their productions. From this, American and Broadway kind of became the unofficial “headquarters” for musical theatre.
The first musical theatre production performed in the U.S. was The Black Crook, which opened and performed for the first time on September 12, 1866. Fun fact, this show was actually deemed to be two musicals in one! In summary, The Black Crook is about a young artist named Rodolphe who is tricked, 
unknowingly, into going on a suicide mission in the promise of riches and winning over his beloved Amina from the clutches of the evil Count Wolfenstein. The man behind it all: the Black Crook of course. Besides the plot, the audience adored this show because it was a genuine musical. There was a combination of acting, singing, and even some dance numbers; there was an integration of plot and characters. Sure, the actors had fun, but these shows held a bigger purpose for their audiences.
Ever since the early days, musical theatre was seen as an escape for its audiences, a way to leave their troubles and worries behind for a couple of hours while enjoying the beauty of music and song. People were able to enjoy
themselves, enjoy some food, and watch something that will distract them from the outside world. Audiences full of all social and economic classes were able to come together and enjoy a good show — and food — thanks to the very affordable ticket prices. Even still to this day, people find themselves flocking to their local theaters and supporting the brave souls who dare to dance in front of strangers (and of course some family and friends).
The Present
Now, back to the present. It’s 2024. New gadgets and technologies are popping up left and right, but somehow the theater remains to be relevant in how a lot of people obtain their entertainment. According to a recent poll taken of 50 Norwin High School students, 90 percent said they enjoy seeing live theatrical productions.
“Everybody can find something that they can connect to in musical theatre,” Erin Shrader, NTC director and choreographer, said. “There’s something for everyone and no matter what your tastes are, you can always find something to enjoy. It’s truly special for everyone.”
That there is, indeed. The Norwin Theatre Company — NTC for short — here in North Huntingdon, PA, has been putting on theatrical productions for over thirty years, bringing joy to all audience members who enter. Those who come and see the shows are instantly blown away by the talent that stands before them. Erin Shrader, NTC director and choreographer, has been constantly working hard to make sure the productions come out looking and sounding amazing.
“Something I say a lot to my students, and was said to me, is the reason that you sing and dance in a musical is because your emotional level has gotten to the point that simply words and walking will no longer suffice,” said Erin Shrader. “So sometimes it’s an emotional release for you, sometimes it is your vent session. That’s why I think it’s so special. It exists for everyone in every different capacity.”
The Norwin Theatre Company (NTC) has been bringing smiles and joy to all those who perform in the productions and who come and see them. No matter what they have performed, the members of the club have loved every second of it. These people spend nearly every day with one another, making them all grow closer and forming a sense of community amongst them all. Most of these actors look to each other for help, support, and friendship.
“In the past two years, I feel like I’ve really become a better person because of theatre, and it really has become something so special and sacred in my life,” quoted Sarah McHugh, a junior cast member of the NTC. “My favorite part about performing is how rewarding it is. You put in so much time and effort and energy and it feels so good to take that first bow on closing night. Knowing that you did all that work to get there makes performing even more special.”
The Future
If musical theatre has stayed around for this long and has impacted so many lives, it is bound to stick around for many more years to come.
“I think musical theatre should stick around for much longer in order to preserve humanity’s connection with an audience and with others around them,” says junior Grace Fleckenstein. “In a world where technology has slowly been taking over every form of entertainment, I think it is vital that we have a musical theatre to preserve a face-to-face connection with an audience and a cast.”
The next time you go to the theatre, take a look around. Look at all of the things that have hung around since the beginning, and what things have been added since then. Look at the curtains, and the lights, soak in the sounds, and enjoy your cushioned seats and theatre snacks. You’ll be able to gaze around and know how much of an impact this form of art has had on so many lives. Whether it was from the past or the present — or hopefully being impactful in the future — the theatre has, and will continue, to touch the hearts of many; sometimes when performing, or sometimes when watching the performance. And no matter what your role is involving this beautiful art form, it will always be there for you, no matter the circumstances.
Alright, you ready? Lights up!
