Act One Closers

 The curtains rise again, an intermission starts, and the audience chats with each other about the show thus far. In the moments before that breather is important in terms of both narrative and song. The song right before intermission, the act one closer is one of the most important songs in the entire show. So today I wanted to talk about the importance of an Act One closing song and share some of my favorites. This song is some cases a finale, the final to the first act. It leaves you wondering what will come next as well as where the characters will go from there. Perhaps a change in the narrative, an approach of the boiling point of conflict, or a characters reflection. In terms of story it could change the tone of a show or change the mood, taking a moment to breath right before intermission, or going all in to keep the narrative momentum. They can leave the crowd on the edge of their seats or cheering for more. These songs are just as  important as an opening, or finale, meant to hammer in a message of the show or give a moment to reflect. They can move you and the narrative along, or stop things to question events that just occurred. They can wrap up plot lines while introducing new ones, or thicken the plot at hand. So with that being said I wanted to share some of my favorite Act one closing songs and why.

Santa Fe (Newsies)

A powerful end to act one, full of emotion, this song is an emotional valley of the story, beautifully expressed in this unforgettable song. 

One Day More (Les Miserables)

The summation of everything in the show thus far in one epic moment that is equally emotional, powerful, and awe inspiring, leaving the audience wanting more. 

Defying Gravity (Wicked)

A turning point in the plot that the story has been building too, nothing is the same after this number which is incredibly powerful and an emotional victory as the plot progresses. 

You're Nothing Without Me (City Of Angels)

A fun back and fourth, with great big band feel that sums up the feeling of the show incredibly well. 

Nonstop (Hamilton)

A song of pure energy, everything in the show has been pushing to this number and the epic conclusion of act one is not only a brilliant set up for act two, but a powerful examination of the cast and how they feel, their dreams, how their lives are change, and how some strive forward.

Bad Idea (Waitress)

Much like Wicked this is a big turning point, and a powerful moment for two characters, with this turn that can not e reversed, leaving the audience wondering where the story will go next while giving an incredible song.

So Much Better (Legally Blonde The Musical)

An emotion victory for the lead we have been following and cheering for, in an incredibly catchy, super satisfying conclusion to acts one story, making you wonder how far she can go and cheering with and for her. 

Sunday (Sunday In The Park With George)

Beautiful, calm, and packed with emotion, simply beautiful.

All of the songs listed are amazing, and must listens, but this is just scratching the tip of the iceberg. What are some of your favorite Act One finales? Let me know, and thank you for reading.