In today's blog, Talia Rodgers discusses how contemporary trends have introduced new audiences to the world of musical theatre, and how you can introduce your students to the genre with the support of Digital Theatre+ productions and resources.
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In contemporary musical theatre, the four key components of musical theatre – great songs, spoken dialogue, truthful acting, and technically accomplished (and often spectacular) dance – are all still present and correct.
But, in recent years, they've been joined by a much wider and more diverse range of stories, a distinct concern with social issues, and an innovative use of technology to create immersive storytelling.
Video projection and digital integration have allowed for some truly unique theatrical experiences to emerge. On top of this, influences from contemporary culture have brought exhilarating new fusions of genre and style, as well as – drum roll – entirely new audiences to the form.
By 2020, more than 2.6 million people had seen Lin Manuel Miranda's Hamilton on Broadway, and in the summer of 2025, thousands gathered on London's Argyll Street to watch Rachel Zegler sing Evita's 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina' from the balcony of the London Palladium – while her performance was broadcast live to the audience watching inside the theatre.
Teaching the classics whilst also staying connected to what's happening in the industry – and priming your students for it – can be challenging, to say the least. The need to facilitate collaboration, plan appropriate assignments, and develop skills through creative practice, as well as critical reflection, is a tall order.
At Digital Theatre+, we recognise the challenges inherent in teaching a complex field such as musical theatre. So, we're pleased to present a wide range of captured productions, accompanied by scholarly reflections and educational resources.
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As well as over 30 full-length productions to choose from (many courtesy of our partnership with BroadwayHD) we have a hugely enjoyable and engaging e-learning series called 'Key Concepts in Musical Theatre', written by Charlie Gilbert, who served as Director of the Ira Brind School of Theater Arts in Philadelphia from 2008 to 2013.
Each 15-minute episode in the series works by illuminating the core components of musical theatre – song, dance, spectacle, chorus, and performance – with a montage of illustrative clips from Digital Theatre+ productions. These episodes are then woven together with Charlie's succinct and informative narration.
Of course, we also have a wide range of essays and study guides on the topic of musical theatre. Our 'Concise Introduction to Musical Theatre' was written by Joe Deer, an award-winning director, author, and educator – and the man Nicole Scherzinger described as 'the best director I've ever worked with'.
Other written resources include our indispensable 'Musical Theatre: A Handbook of Practical Exercises', which introduces and reinforces the vocabulary needed for classes and rehearsals, and was written by J. Austin Eyer, Head of the Musical Theatre Program at the University of Texas at Arlington.
Besides written resources, we have our 'Musical Matters' series of recorded interviews, which explores inclusivity and representation in American musical theatre. This five-part series is hosted by actor, writer, and advocate for inclusion, Christine Toy Johnson, and features interviews with legendary practitioners such as:
Essentially, everything you and your students might need for a course on musical theatre, from the primary source material to expert commentary and guidance, is already ready and waiting for you on Digital Theatre+. See the library for yourself with an institution-wide free trial today!
'Digital Theatre+ is one of the great democratizing resources for students of theatre and literature. It enables those who would struggle to see great productions to experience something of the thrill of live performance. For tutors and researchers, it makes possible a level of detailed analysis unthinkable for live events. The recordings are high quality and the supporting resources full of useful material. Long live DT+!'
– Professor David Roberts, Birmingham City University
'As a Theater Professor, the use of Digital Theatre+ is essential. It gives students of diverse backgrounds access to world class performances that represent different cultures and perspectives. In addition, the educational resources help students engage more productively with the plays as well as helping add support to instructors. With this platform, everyone benefits.'
– Karen Cecilia, Adjunct Professor, CUNY
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