In-Depth Analysis of the Musical “See What I Wanna See”

“See What I Wanna See,” a musical by Michael John LaChiusa, premiered Off-Broadway in 2005. The production has garnered attention for its complex narrative structure and deeply intertwined themes.

This musical challenges audiences with its thought-provoking exploration of truth and perception, woven through multiple storylines that span different times and settings. Its bold approach to storytelling makes it particularly significant within the realm of contemporary theatre.

Exploring the Themes

“See What I Wanna See” delves into the fluidity of truth and the subjective nature of reality. The musical’s narrative structure, which shifts between different time periods and perspectives, underscores the idea that truth is often a matter of perception. This theme is poignantly illustrated in the first act, where a crime is recounted from multiple viewpoints, each offering a distinct version of events. The Rashomon-like storytelling technique invites the audience to question the reliability of each narrator and to consider how personal biases and experiences shape one’s understanding of truth.

The theme of faith and its complexities is another significant thread running through the musical. In the second act, set in post-9/11 New York City, characters grapple with their beliefs in the face of tragedy and uncertainty. This exploration of faith is not limited to religious conviction but extends to faith in humanity, love, and oneself. The characters’ journeys reflect a broader commentary on how crises can both challenge and reaffirm one’s beliefs, leading to moments of profound introspection and transformation.

Interwoven with these themes is the concept of redemption. The characters in “See What I Wanna See” are often flawed, grappling with their past actions and seeking forgiveness. This quest for redemption is portrayed with nuance, showing that it is not a straightforward path but one fraught with moral ambiguity and personal struggle. The musical suggests that redemption is a deeply personal journey, influenced by one’s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and make amends.

Character Analysis

“See What I Wanna See” is a tapestry of complex characters, each contributing to the musical’s intricate examination of human nature. The characters are not merely vehicles for the narrative but are richly developed individuals whose personal journeys reflect the broader themes of the musical.

The Janitor, introduced in the second act, serves as a poignant example of a character wrestling with inner turmoil. His transformation from a man burdened by guilt and regret to someone seeking meaning in the wake of a personal and collective tragedy is both compelling and relatable. The Janitor’s journey is marked by moments of profound vulnerability, revealing the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. He represents the struggle to find a sense of purpose in a world that often feels chaotic and unforgiving.

Another central character, the Wife, embodies the complexities of love and betrayal. Her story arc, marked by a tumultuous relationship with her husband, delves into the intricacies of marital fidelity and emotional manipulation. The Wife’s actions, driven by a desperate need for validation and affection, shed light on the darker aspects of human relationships. Her character challenges the audience to consider the fine line between love and control, and the lengths to which one might go to feel seen and understood.

The Priest, featured prominently in both acts, offers a nuanced perspective on faith and morality. His crisis of faith, triggered by a harrowing event, forces him to confront his own beliefs and the hypocrisy within the religious institution he represents. The Priest’s internal conflict and subsequent quest for redemption highlight the often painful process of reconciling one’s ideals with reality. His character underscores the theme of spiritual disillusionment and the search for authentic faith in a world rife with suffering and doubt.

In contrast, the Reporter, a secondary yet significant character, brings a different dimension to the narrative. With a sharp, inquisitive nature, the Reporter symbolizes the quest for truth in a landscape of deception and ambiguity. Her interactions with other characters reveal the challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity while navigating personal biases and external pressures. The Reporter adds depth to the exploration of truth, emphasizing the role of the observer in shaping and interpreting reality.

Musical Composition and Style

Michael John LaChiusa’s “See What I Wanna See” stands out for its inventive and eclectic musical composition, a blend that defies conventional genre boundaries. LaChiusa masterfully intertwines various musical styles, creating a sonic landscape that mirrors the multifaceted nature of the narrative. This blend of genres not only enriches the storytelling but also enhances the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys.

The musical’s score is a dynamic fusion of contemporary musical theatre, jazz, and classical influences, each chosen to reflect the distinct settings and emotional tones of the different acts. For instance, the use of dissonant harmonies and syncopated rhythms in certain scenes evokes an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty, aligning perfectly with moments of conflict and introspection. Conversely, more melodic and lyrical passages provide a sense of resolution and emotional clarity, guiding the audience through the characters’ evolving states of mind.

Instrumentation plays a pivotal role in shaping the musical’s unique sound. LaChiusa employs a diverse array of instruments, from traditional strings and woodwinds to more modern elements like electric guitar and synthesizers. This varied instrumentation allows for a rich and textured sound, capable of conveying the complexity of the characters’ inner lives. The careful orchestration ensures that each instrument’s voice is heard, contributing to the overall narrative in a meaningful way.

The vocal arrangements further enhance the musical’s impact, with intricate harmonies and counterpoints that reflect the interwoven narratives. The ensemble numbers, in particular, showcase LaChiusa’s ability to create a cohesive yet multifaceted vocal tapestry. These moments of choral unity contrast with solo performances, where individual voices take center stage, offering intimate glimpses into the characters’ personal struggles and revelations. The juxtaposition of ensemble and solo pieces underscores the themes of interconnectedness and isolation, central to the musical’s exploration of human experience.

Staging and Choreography

The staging of “See What I Wanna See” is as innovative and layered as its narrative. The physical space of the theatre is utilized to its maximum potential, transforming with each shift in story and setting. Scenic design plays a crucial role, often employing minimalist elements that can be easily reconfigured to reflect the changing environments. This fluidity in the set design mirrors the fluidity of truth and perception within the storyline, allowing the audience to seamlessly transition between different times and places.

Lighting design is another powerful tool in the staging of this musical. The strategic use of light and shadow not only creates mood and atmosphere but also serves to highlight the subjectivity of each character’s perspective. For instance, stark, contrasting lighting might be used during moments of intense personal revelation or conflict, while softer, diffused lighting can underscore scenes of reflection and introspection. The manipulation of light helps to guide the audience’s emotional response and enhances the thematic depth of the production.

Choreography in “See What I Wanna See” is both expressive and purposeful, often blurring the line between dance and natural movement. The choreography is intricately tied to the characters’ emotions, with each gesture and step designed to convey deeper layers of meaning. For example, in scenes of tension or confrontation, movements may be sharp and angular, reflecting the internal strife of the characters. Conversely, more fluid and lyrical movements are used in moments of connection or resolution, symbolizing the characters’ emotional journeys.

Vocal Techniques

The vocal techniques employed in “See What I Wanna See” are as diverse and intricate as its narrative structure. Each character’s vocal delivery is meticulously crafted to reflect their emotional state and individual journey. The use of varied vocal styles—from operatic arias to conversational singing—adds layers of complexity to the characters and enhances the storytelling.

LaChiusa’s composition demands a high level of vocal versatility from the performers. The shifts between different musical styles require the cast to navigate a wide vocal range and dynamic contrasts. For example, the Janitor’s introspective solos often feature a subdued, almost spoken quality, capturing his vulnerability and internal conflict. In contrast, the Wife’s emotionally charged numbers might employ a more powerful, belting technique, reflecting her intense emotional turmoil and need for expression. These vocal choices are not merely technical but serve to deepen the audience’s understanding of the characters’ inner lives.

Moreover, the ensemble pieces in the musical showcase intricate harmonies and vocal interplay. These moments require precise coordination and blend, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the characters’ stories. The layering of voices creates a rich, textured sound that enhances the emotional impact of the scenes. The vocal techniques in “See What I Wanna See” are not just about showcasing talent but are integral to the musical’s exploration of complex themes and character dynamics.

Influence on Modern Musical Theatre

“See What I Wanna See” has left a lasting imprint on modern musical theatre, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and musical composition. Its innovative approach has inspired contemporary creators to experiment with narrative structure and thematic depth, paving the way for more nuanced and thought-provoking works.

One significant aspect of its influence is the musical’s willingness to tackle complex, often uncomfortable themes. By delving into the subjectivity of truth, the nature of faith, and the quest for redemption, LaChiusa’s work has encouraged other musicals to explore similarly challenging topics. This shift towards more profound and introspective storytelling can be seen in recent productions that prioritize character development and thematic exploration over traditional plot-driven narratives.

Additionally, the eclectic musical style of “See What I Wanna See” has opened doors for greater genre diversity within musical theatre. The seamless integration of various musical forms—from jazz to classical—has demonstrated the potential for a more inclusive and expansive approach to composition. This has influenced contemporary composers to blend different genres, creating unique and innovative scores that reflect the diverse experiences and emotions of modern audiences.