I Want Song

Definition

An I Want Song is a specific type of musical number in a musical theater production where a character expresses their desires, hopes, and dreams, often revealing their motivations and inner conflicts. This pivotal moment typically occurs early in the narrative, setting the stage for the character's journey and allowing the audience to connect emotionally with them. It serves as a powerful storytelling device, helping to establish themes and emotional stakes that will unfold throughout the production.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. I Want Songs are essential in establishing a character's goals and motivations, helping the audience understand what drives them.
2. These songs often feature catchy melodies and relatable lyrics to make the character's desires resonate with the audience.
3. Famous examples of I Want Songs include 'I Want to Be Like You' from 'The Jungle Book' and 'Part of Your World' from 'The Little Mermaid'.
4. The emotional impact of an I Want Song can set the tone for the entire production, influencing how the audience feels about the character's journey.
5. In many cases, an I Want Song is followed by obstacles or conflicts that challenge the character's desires, leading to growth and development.

Review Questions

• How does an I Want Song contribute to character development in musical theater?
  • An I Want Song plays a crucial role in character development by revealing a character's deepest desires and motivations early in the story. This expression of want allows the audience to form an emotional connection with the character as they embark on their journey. The song not only sets up what the character hopes to achieve but also foreshadows challenges they may face, making their development more engaging.
• In what ways do I Want Songs enhance storytelling in musicals?
  • I Want Songs enhance storytelling by succinctly conveying a character's ambitions and inner conflicts, which helps to drive the plot forward. By laying out a clear desire, these songs create anticipation for how the character will navigate obstacles to achieve their goals. Additionally, they establish thematic elements that resonate throughout the musical, allowing audiences to connect with broader ideas present in the story.
• Evaluate how an I Want Song can influence audience engagement and emotional response during a musical performance.
  • An I Want Song significantly influences audience engagement by tapping into universal emotions and aspirations, making it easier for viewers to relate to the characters. When executed effectively, these songs evoke empathy and support for the characters' journeys, enhancing emotional investment in their outcomes. Furthermore, as audiences witness characters expressing vulnerability through their desires, it deepens their connection to the narrative and increases overall enjoyment of the performance.

Related terms

Exposition: The introduction of background information, characters, and setting within a story, often providing context for the I Want Song.

Character Arc:

The transformation or development a character undergoes throughout a story, often influenced by their desires expressed in the I Want Song.

Musical Number: A segment of music performed by one or more characters in a musical, which can vary in style and purpose, including I Want Songs.