A concert performance or concert version is a performance of a musical theater or opera in concert form,[1] without set design or costumes, and mostly without theatrical interaction between singers.[2]
Concert performances are commonly presented in concert halls without a theater stage, but occasionally also in opera houses when a scenic production is deemed too difficult or expensive. During a concert performance in an opera house, the orchestra does not play in the orchestra pit. Frequently, they play on the stage, with the choir (chorus) behind them and the soloists standing in front of them.
Concert performances, which cost less to produce and require less rehearsal, have been produced since some of the earliest operas of the 17th century; this mode has become increasingly popular in the 21st century.[3]
Since 1960, concert performances have been a part of the annual Salzburg Festival alongside scenic productions.[4] In Theater an der Wien, concert performances have been presented regularly since 2006, particularly of baroque operas with elaborate set designs.[5]
Ongoing musical theatre concert series are given in some cities, such as the Encores! and Musicals Tonight! concert series in New York City[10][11] and the Lost Musicals series in London.[12]York Theatre Company in New York City presents staged concerts in its "Musicals in Mufti" concert series, which "has uncovered a number of needlessly forgotten gems ... presenting more titles than any other theatrical concert series in the world."[13][14]42nd Street Moon in San Francisco, California, presents staged concerts of musicals to highlight "early and lesser-known works".[15] The Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, Illinois also presents staged musical theatre concerts. For example, the festival presented a concert version of Gypsy starring Patti LuPone in 2006.[16][17]
