Attempting The Absurd Meta Musical Comedy: A Hilarious Journey Through Uncharted Territory

When it comes to pushing the boundaries of entertainment, few genres dare to go as far as the absurd meta musical comedy. Combining elements of surrealist humor, self-reflexivity, and catchy tunes, this unique form of performance art embraces the absurdity of life while challenging traditional storytelling conventions. In this article, we will embark on a hilarious journey through the world of absurd meta musical comedies, exploring their origins, popular examples, and the challenges faced in attempting such daring productions.

The Origins of Absurd Meta Musical Comedy

Absurd meta musical comedy finds its roots in the experimental theater movement of the early 20th century. Influenced by the works of playwrights such as Alfred Jarry and Antonin Artaud, this genre defies logic and embraces the nonsensical. It challenges the audience to suspend their disbelief and invites them into a world where anything is possible.

One of the earliest pioneers of absurd meta musical comedies is the renowned playwright and composer, Luigi Pirandello. His play "Six Characters in Search of an Author" (1921) introduced the concept of characters breaking the fourth wall and openly addressing the audience. This subversion of traditional theatrical norms laid the groundwork for future absurd meta musical comedies.

Attempting the Absurd: a meta musical comedy

by Scott Miller([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4859 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	90 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Unforgettable Examples of Absurd Meta Musical Comedies

Over the years, numerous productions have embraced the absurd meta musical comedy format, charming audiences with their unconventional and often outrageous narratives. One of the most iconic examples is undoubtedly "The Producers" (1967),a musical comedy film directed by Mel Brooks. This satirical masterpiece follows the story of two Broadway producers who plan to stage the biggest flop in history, intent on making more money from a failed show than a successful one.

Another notable gem is "The Book of Mormon" (2011),a musical comedy created by the talented duo of Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Known for their animated series "South Park," Parker and Stone ventured into the world of absurdity with this witty and irreverent musical that explores themes of faith, cultural clashes, and the human condition. Its success and critical acclaim solidified the enduring popularity of absurd meta musical comedies.

The Challenges of Creating Absurd Meta Musical Comedies

While absurd meta musical comedies offer a refreshing departure from more conventional forms of entertainment, attempting such daring productions comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the primary hurdles is striking a delicate balance between humor and coherence. The narrative may be intentionally nonsensical, but it still needs to engage the audience and maintain a semblance of structure.

Furthermore, writing music that seamlessly integrates with the absurdity of the story and effectively delivers the humor requires tremendous skill and creative acumen. Composers must create songs that both entertain and keep the audience invested in the narrative, helping to heighten the comedic impact of the overall performance.

Absurd meta musical comedies are a testament to the limitless possibilities of artistic expression. By challenging theatrical norms and embracing the absurdity of life, these productions provide a delightful escape from reality. With their catchy tunes, witty humor, and unique storytelling techniques, absurd meta musical comedies push the boundaries of entertainment and invite audiences to participate in the unconventional and the extraordinary.

Attempting the Absurd: a meta musical comedy

by Scott Miller([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4859 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	90 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Meta before meta was cool. With book, music and lyrics by Scott Miller, ATTEMPTING THE ABSURD is one of the first truly postmodern meta-musicals (written 1986-1992, debuted 1992),about a young man named Jason who has figured out that he's only a character in a musical and doesn’t actually exist; and his special knowledge has persuaded those around him that he's off his nut. Jason is a fictional character in the real world, but all the people around him are real people in a fictional world. So he sets off on a quest to find The Answers To It All, with his musical comedy sidekick, Chaz. Along the way the two find love (both gay and straight),community theatre friends, a little jail time, and ultimately irrefutable proof that Jason is right after all. Love and a copy of the script to Attempting the Absurd conquer all, and all ends as it should, with a happy, full company reprise.Songs include “I Love You,” “Being in a Musical,” “The City,” “Waltz for Chaz,” “Worse Things,” “The Optimistic Song,” “Old-Fashioned Musicals,” “The Big Finish,” and lots more.