Photo collage courtesy of Health and Sports Editor Sonia McSwain
On November 26, several San Luis Obispo High School Students were shocked to learn of the death of Broadway legend and composer Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim, who succumbed to his battle with cardiovascular disease at the age of 91, was credited with reinventing the American musical scene, as his musicals featured innovative melodic tones and unique themes. Expressions interviewed theater students and seniors Emilia Gambucci and Linnaea Marks to learn how Sondheim impacted the performing arts community.
Expressions: How did you react to Sondheim’s passing?
Senior Emilia Gambucci: When I first read about Stephen Sondheim’s passing, I honestly couldn’t believe it. I had read an article earlier in the week about how he had recently watched a performance from the current Broadway cast of “Company” about a week before his death. It was just so sudden.
Senior Linnaea Marks: It’s honestly shocking to hear of his passing; He’s someone we don’t think about on a day-to-day basis, but he influenced so much of theater and even mainstream culture.
Expressions: In what ways have his works influenced you as an actor?
Gambucci: As an actor, Sondheim’s works have inspired me to fight for what I believe in, be myself, and learn how to embrace my creative side.
Marks: I’m not super into musicals, but I was once in a production of his musical “Into the Woods”, and that was so much fun! His over-the-top writing helps lead actors to be as crazy as they want to be and helps me bring out more emotional performances.
Expressions: How did Sondheim aid in the evolution of theater?
Gambucci: He was a huge contributor when it came to bringing musicals into the mainstream. The public views Broadway and plays in a new light thanks to him, and before he entered the scene, things like that weren’t widely known throughout national households. I can’t imagine that anyone hasn’t at least heard of “West Side Story.”
Marks: Sondheim took things in a new direction. He worked with tons of dark topics in his writing and delved into very profound themes, which is pretty different from the usual superficial musical.
Expressions: What is your favorite piece written by Sondheim?
Gambucci: I can’t choose a singular musical! It’s a three-way tie between “Gypsy,” “Company,” and “West Side Story.” Each of them has amazing songs and includes themes that are somewhat relevant today.
Marks: “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” is my favorite show of his, though I love the song “Maria” from “West Side Story” because my grandpa used to sing it to me a lot.
Sondheim’s influence can be seen throughout modern Broadway productions, as well as in other forms of Media. The highly respected and award-winning composer will be greatly missed throughout the performing arts world, but students can keep his memory alive by listening to his numerous productions.
