Meaning: The quote "It costs a great deal of money to do a musical, and the more money involved, the more big business influences the artform." by Hal Price highlights the complex relationship between art and commerce in the world of musical theater. This thought-provoking statement sheds light on the significant financial investment required to produce a musical and how this financial aspect can impact the artistic integrity and creative freedom of the art form.

Musical theater is a form of performing arts that combines music, songs, spoken dialogue, and dance to tell a story. It is a highly collaborative art form that involves the efforts of composers, lyricists, playwrights, choreographers, directors, actors, musicians, and a myriad of other creative professionals. The production of a musical involves a wide range of expenses, including but not limited to, paying the creative team, securing performance venues, creating sets and costumes, marketing and advertising, and numerous other logistical and operational costs.

The financial investment required for mounting a musical production can be substantial, especially for large-scale and high-profile shows. As a result, the involvement of big business and commercial interests becomes inevitable. Major financial backers, production companies, and investors play a critical role in funding and supporting musicals, often with the expectation of generating significant returns on their investments. This financial influence can impact various aspects of the art form, from the selection of projects to the creative decision-making process.

When significant financial stakes are involved, artistic choices may be influenced by commercial considerations. Producers and investors may prioritize projects that are perceived as commercially viable and likely to attract large audiences, potentially favoring established or formulaic works over innovative or unconventional artistic endeavors. This can lead to a homogenization of the musical theater landscape, with an emphasis on safe and marketable productions at the expense of risk-taking and boundary-pushing creativity.

Furthermore, the pressure to appeal to broad audience demographics and recoup substantial financial investments can impact the content and themes of musicals. Creative choices may be shaped by market research and commercial trends, potentially leading to a dilution of artistic vision and a focus on mass appeal rather than artistic innovation and authenticity.

In addition, the involvement of big business in musical theater can also influence the accessibility and affordability of the art form. Ticket prices, marketing strategies, and venue selection may be influenced by commercial imperatives, potentially limiting the diversity of audiences and perpetuating economic barriers to participation in the cultural experience of live musical theater.

Despite these challenges, it is important to recognize that the intersection of art and commerce in musical theater is not inherently negative. Financial investment and commercial support are vital for the sustainability and growth of the industry, enabling the production of ambitious and technically complex shows that captivate audiences around the world. Moreover, successful commercial productions can provide financial stability and resources for developing new works, nurturing emerging talent, and preserving the rich tradition of musical theater.

In conclusion, Hal Price's quote succinctly captures the intricate relationship between money and artistic expression in the world of musical theater. The financial realities of producing musicals inevitably intersect with the influence of big business, shaping the art form in complex and multifaceted ways. While the commercial considerations and financial pressures can pose challenges to artistic integrity, they also play a crucial role in sustaining and evolving the vibrant and dynamic landscape of musical theater.