I am ceretainly happy that I started this thread. What wonderful thoughts, both positive and negative.

Catspaw 49 shows, I believe,that (as G & S say) "..things are seldom what they seem". Catspaw 49 liked what really are good musicals---and disliked the hokum foisted on the public in, as I said, the "Disneyfication" of Broadway.

Musicals, like drama, can be meaningful and talk to us in allegories or other forms in verse and prose. West Side Story is a case in point. I have to say I am sorry I never saw the original stage version---but I did enjoy the film knowing full well that it probably could not compare to the drama on a stage.

Shows like Kiss Me Kate, Oklahoma, 42 St are pure fun with great music. Others such as Fiddler, Carousel (the new version), Showboat(new version)speak to the human condition in wonderful musical terms.

So, in answer to the question by Sheila--probably because we have, as said earlier, become Disneyfied and TVfied with hype and short attention spans.

As to Gilbert & Sullivan. Start a new thread whenever the mood hits anyone and we can reminisce about the classic performers from the D'Oyle Carte. Do go see Topsy Turvy.

Bill H