The Golden Age Lives On
As a mezzo-soprano and voice teacher, I’ve had the privilege of working with aspiring musical theater performers for years. One thing that’s always fascinated me is the enduring appeal of the “Golden Age” musicals – those beloved classics from the 1940s through the 1960s that continue to captivate audiences today.
Despite the passage of time, shows like Company, 1776, and The Music Man remain staples on stages worldwide. In fact, a quick glance at the 2021-2022 Broadway season reveals that these time-honored treasures are very much alive and well.
But as I’ve delved deeper into the world of musical theater, I’ve come to realize that navigating the vocal demands of these “Golden Age” roles presents a unique set of challenges, especially as performers age. It’s a topic that deserves thoughtful consideration, not only for the sake of the art form we all cherish, but for the hard-working singers who bring these characters to life.
The Evolving Vocal Landscape
One of the most notable shifts I’ve observed is the way revivals of “Golden Age” musicals are sung compared to the original productions. Contemporary singers often employ a far greater degree of chest mix than the artists who created these iconic roles.
This stylistic evolution is fascinating to witness. While the music may remain the same, the vocal approach has undoubtedly shifted to accommodate the changing demands of the modern musical theater landscape. Singers today are expected to possess a more diverse and flexible vocal toolkit, capable of seamlessly transitioning between chest, head, and mix registers.
Take, for instance, the role of Marian Paroo in The Music Man. Famously originated by the legendary Barbara Cook, a true vocal powerhouse known for her crystalline, legit soprano sound. I’m curious to hear how Sutton Foster, at 46 years old, will approach this role, as the character is supposed to be an “old maid” at the tender age of 26. Will Foster’s interpretation lean more towards the contemporary chest-heavy mix, or will she channel Cook’s timeless, lighter-hued delivery?
It’s a fascinating question that speaks to the evolving nature of musical theater performance. As singers age, they must grapple with the natural changes that occur in the voice, all while striving to honor the original intent of the material. It’s a delicate balance, to be sure.
The Challenges of Vocal Aging
Speaking of the natural changes that occur in the voice over time, let’s dive a bit deeper into the specific challenges that come with vocal aging in the world of musical theater.
As a certified Somatic Voicework instructor, I’ve had the pleasure of working with countless singers, both young and old, as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of their instrument. And let me tell you, it’s no easy feat, especially for those performers tasked with bringing the Golden Age musicals to life.
One of the primary issues is the gradual loss of vocal flexibility and agility that often accompanies the aging process. Over time, the vocal folds can become less supple, making it harder to execute the rapid-fire patter songs or sustained legato lines that are hallmarks of many “Golden Age” roles. Singers must work tirelessly to maintain their technique, incorporating specialized vocal exercises and mindful warm-ups to counteract these natural changes.
But it’s not just the technical aspects that pose a challenge. There’s also the very real psychological hurdle of accepting one’s evolving vocal identity. As an opera singer and actress, I’ve seen firsthand how the pressures of the industry can take a toll on a performer’s self-confidence, especially as they reach “certain” milestones in their career.
It’s a delicate balance, navigating the realities of vocal aging while still striving to do justice to the roles that captivated us in our youth. And let’s not forget the added complexities of bringing these characters to life on stage, where the physical demands can be just as taxing as the vocal ones.
Adapting and Embracing Change
So, how do we, as musical theater performers and educators, help our aging colleagues navigate these challenges? It’s a question that requires a multifaceted approach, one that values both the preservation of the art form and the well-being of the artists themselves.
First and foremost, I believe we need to foster a culture of open and honest dialogue. The Musical Theater Center, where I’m proud to be a faculty member, is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for performers of all ages and experience levels. We encourage our students to be proactive in addressing any vocal concerns, and we work closely with them to develop personalized strategies for maintaining their instrument as they grow and evolve.
This might involve incorporating more low-impact vocal exercises, exploring alternative repertoire choices, or even rethinking the way certain roles are approached. After all, as Christine Thomas-OMeally points out, sometimes a show might need to be reworked in order to remain viable, without compromising its artistic integrity.
But it’s not just about the technical aspects. We also need to cultivate an environment of empathy and understanding, one that celebrates the unique gifts and life experiences that older performers bring to the table. Their depth of emotional expression, their nuanced interpretations, and their unwavering commitment to the craft are all invaluable assets that can breathe new life into these beloved “Golden Age” masterpieces.
And let’s not forget the valuable mentorship opportunities that can arise when seasoned veterans share the stage with rising stars. As a teacher, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of these intergenerational collaborations, where younger performers are able to glean insights and techniques from their more experienced counterparts.
Embracing the Evolution
At the end of the day, the enduring appeal of “Golden Age” musicals lies in their ability to speak to the universal human experience, transcending the boundaries of time and space. And as performers, it’s our responsibility to ensure that these timeless stories continue to resonate with audiences, regardless of our own vocal journeys.
Yes, the way these roles are interpreted may evolve, but that’s the beauty of the art form – it’s a living, breathing entity that grows and adapts alongside the artists who bring it to life. And by embracing that evolution, by celebrating the unique talents and perspectives that each generation of performers brings to the stage, we can ensure that the magic of the “Golden Age” continues to captivate and inspire audiences for decades to come.
So, let’s raise a glass to the resilient singers who dare to take on these iconic roles, who challenge themselves to push the boundaries of what’s possible, and who remind us that the true power of musical theater lies not in the perfection of the performance, but in the heart and soul that infuses every note.
