Sondheim vs. ALW — Page 2

Let's start with accurate facts, huh? The original productions of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, A Little Night Music, and (I'm pretty sure) Company all made back their investments, as did Sweeney Todd once it went on tour.

I'm not an ALW fan, but tripe like Good Vibrations has given me perspective on him. I think he at least tries to be artistic, even if I don't care for the vast majority of his music. That said, if you want to see why people consider him to be fluff while Sondheim is considered genius- just read the lyrics. I realize ALW doesn't write his own, but the difference in those alone is immense. Another point is that Sondheim's shows actually have themes, while ALW's are just stories without too many layers behind them. Nothing wrong with that, but when you have less complexity you're not going to be considered as brilliant.

And finally, why do people keep framing things as a fight between the two? They certainly don't hate each other, and they've been able to coexist on a just fine on a professional level for decades.

Updated On: 9/11/05 at 10:58 PM

ha - i saw that jam_man.
Of course people will be doing Sondheim shows in the future, rather than Webber, not everyone can afford for a chandlier to fall from the ceiling, or the dancing abilities to pull off Cats. I agree they're both geniuses in their own right. Webber does seem to lean more towards the business side of things, but at the same time, some shred of artistic ability has to be in him for him to create WiW. I also like how Webber picks the most random subjects or themes to make shows about. (I.E. Starlight Express, Joseph, Cats).

yeah, I agree Plum. He goes for the obscure (sp?) rather than the money makers. If he wanted to make a sure fire broadway hit, he wouldn't make a musical about some chick from Argentina or a musical with a singing Jesus.

Maybe that's why I only have Peanut Butter sandwiches and no jelly. Wow, it's art reflecting life reflecting art! Kind of... :)

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