Sometimes a prop is just a prop. But sometimes the action of a story hinges on a thing, like Desdemona's handkerchief. Sometimes an object becomes synonymous with a character, like Prospero's staff. And sometimes, those items become plays unto themselves...alas, poor Yorick. But enough about Shakespeare. Let's look at some key objects in musicals.
Take a look at the example above. A pair of emerald glasses, a broom, a bottle of green elixir. Well, that's Wicked. Click through the gallery below and see how many other musicals you can identify from some of their pivotal props.
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A rose, a mask, a chandelier. The Phantom of the Opera
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Sweeney Todd Playbill - Feb 1979
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She Loves Me Playbill - Nov 1993
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Rent Playbill - Opening Night
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Oklahoma! Playbill - Dec 1979
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A loaf of bread, candlesticks, a necklace. Les Misérables
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Into the Woods Playbill - Opening Night
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Café con leche, a lottery ticket, piragua. In the Heights
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Dear Evan Hansen Playbill - Opening Night
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A headshot, a mirror, a top hat. A Chorus Line
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Beauty and the Beast Playbill - Opening Night
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Be More Chill Playbill - Opening Night
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Aladdin Playbill - April 2018
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A locket, a new dress, a stray best friend. Annie