[Continued listening extract audio not available in printed QP] Music (continued) Production A uses songs from a 1970s pop group. Production B is built arou...

(a) A musical that uses pre-existing, already-published songs (rather than songs written specifically for it) is called a jukebox musical. [1]

Jukebox musicals build their narrative around a catalogue of previously released songs, often by a single artist or band. Well-known examples include Mamma Mia! (using songs by ABBA), Jersey Boys (The Four Seasons), and We Will Rock You (Queen). The songs are woven into a storyline that may or may not relate to the original artists.

(b) A musical built around a central theme or idea rather than a conventional linear plot is called a concept musical. [1]

In a concept musical, the unifying element is an idea, theme, or concept rather than a traditional narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Scenes and songs explore the central theme from different angles. Notable examples include Stephen Sondheim's Company (exploring modern relationships and marriage) and A Chorus Line (the lives and aspirations of Broadway dancers). The structure may be non-linear, episodic, or thematic rather than story-driven.

(c) One advantage of using pre-existing songs is that the songs are already well known, so audiences are more likely to attend the show because they are already familiar with and fond of the music. The popularity of the original artist helps attract a wider audience, familiar songs create an immediate emotional connection, and promotional costs may be lower because the music already has public recognition. [1]