Is the Golden Age of Musical Theatre Still Relevant Today?
Are Golden Age musicals still relevant today—or are we overdue for a new perspective? In this post (and the video below), I’ll walk through the history of the Golden Age, why it mattered, and how we can revisit these works with a more inclusive, modern lens.
What Is the Golden Age of Musical Theatre?
The "Golden Age" is a widely used term in musical theatre history, generally referring to the 1940s through the 1960s—a period defined by groundbreaking works from composers like Rodgers & Hammerstein, who reshaped the art form.
This era introduced a new kind of storytelling, where songs, dance, and dialogue worked together to drive plot and deepen character. Shows like Oklahoma, South Pacific, Carousel, and The Sound of Music are considered defining works of this period.
How the Golden Age Changed Musical Theatre
Before the 1940s, musicals leaned heavily on entertainment—think lighthearted comedy, big chorus numbers, and escapist fun. But with Oklahoma and the innovations that followed, the industry pivoted toward:
Narrative-driven song lyrics
Dramatic storytelling
Integrated dance and music
This shift gave rise to what we now call the “book musical,” and it completely altered how audiences experienced theatre.
Should We Still Call It “Golden”?
While this era was revolutionary in terms of structure and style, it wasn’t “golden” for everyone. Many of these works:
Lack cultural representation
Reinforce outdated stereotypes
Reflect societal norms that no longer align with today’s values
So, the question becomes: Can we honor these works while also acknowledging their limitations?
How Do We Present These Works Today?
We’ve seen recent revivals—like Oklahoma!—that reframe these shows through a modern lens. These productions maintain original storylines while offering:
New visual or conceptual treatments
Inclusive casting
Modern interpretations of tone and theme
It’s proof that these works can still resonate, if presented thoughtfully.
Why This Matters for Performers Today
If you're asked to prepare a "Golden Age" song for an audition, here's what to consider:
Know the historical context of the piece
Understand the character and the era
Reflect on how your performance can connect meaningfully now
These shows shaped the foundation of musical theatre—and knowing where we came from helps us shape where we're going.
Let’s Open the Conversation
This isn’t about canceling classic works. It’s about growth, context, and respectful engagement. Ask yourself:
How can I perform this piece with integrity today?
Is this the right story for me to tell?
What conversations can I open with this material?
Understanding musical theatre’s history empowers you to be a more thoughtful, effective storyteller.
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers thrive onstage and off. She brings over two decades of experience and a unique perspective from her bi-coastal lifestyle as a working artist. A former college professor, she now splits her time between performing, coaching, and creating digital resources to support other artists. Follow her on Instagram or check out the Musical Theatre Mentor YouTube channel for weekly career advice.
