Musical Theatre History Quiz

Explanation
The first Tony Awards was held in 1947. This is evidenced by the fact that it is the only option provided after the question.

Explanation
Ethel Merman first got her start in "Girl Crazy." This musical, with music by George Gershwin, marked Merman's Broadway debut in 1930. She played the role of Kate Fothergill and gained recognition for her powerful voice and vibrant stage presence. The success of "Girl Crazy" launched Merman's career and established her as one of the leading actresses in musical theater.

Explanation
The end of the 1960s marked the emergence of the popular rock musical genre, and one of the most iconic examples of this was "Hair". This groundbreaking production, which premiered in 1967, revolutionized the musical theater scene with its rock music score, provocative themes, and countercultural message. "Hair" tackled controversial topics such as war, race, and sexuality, making it a symbol of the cultural and social changes happening during that time. Its success paved the way for other rock musicals like "Jesus Christ Superstar" and influenced the direction of musical theater for years to come.

Explanation
Sunday in the Park with George used state-of-the-art technology through digital projections. This can be inferred from the question as it asks which revival used this technology, implying that it was not used in the original production. Therefore, the correct answer is Sunday in the Park with George.

Explanation
Steven Sondheim is most usually tied to "The Concept Musical" because he is known for his innovative and experimental approach to musical theater. Sondheim's works often incorporate complex themes, non-linear storytelling, and unconventional structures, which are key elements of the concept musical genre. His notable concept musicals include "Company," "Follies," and "Sunday in the Park with George." Sondheim's unique style and contributions to the concept musical make him the correct answer for this question.

Explanation
Beauty and the Beast was the first Disney spectacle to hit Broadway. It premiered in 1994 and became an instant success, running for over 13 years. The musical brought the beloved animated film to life on stage, with elaborate sets, stunning costumes, and memorable songs. Its success paved the way for other Disney productions to make their way to Broadway, including The Lion King, Tarzan, and Mary Poppins.

Explanation
J.K. Rowling is the correct answer because none of her novels have been adapted into a musical. While E.L. Doctorow's novel "Ragtime" was turned into a successful musical, Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist" inspired the popular musical "Oliver!", and Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables" is one of the most famous musicals of all time.

Explanation
Kiss Me, Kate was the first musical to win the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1949. The Tony Awards were established in 1947, and this musical, which is based on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, was the first to receive this prestigious recognition. The other options, while significant in musical theatre history, did not win the first Tony Award for Best Musical.