Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is often remembered as a classic — but its true impact goes far deeper.

In this episode of Behind the Musicals, we explore how the film reshaped the movie musical, bringing Broadway storytelling into animation and redefining what audiences expected from the genre.

From the genius of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman to its historic Best Picture nomination, Beauty and the Beast didn’t just succeed — it changed the rules.

This is the story behind one of the most important musical films ever made.

When Aladdin swaggered onto screens in 1992, it looked like effortless magic. In reality, it was a slow-motion car crash frantically duct-taped together just out of frame.

In this episode of Behind the Musicals, we explore the brilliant, deeply compromised anatomy of an animated giant. From Robin Williams’ explosive stand-up hijacking the corporate script, to Edward Said’s Orientalism playing out in the sound design, we look past the Technicolor polish. Join us as we examine a film that didn't just show us a diamond in the rough—but, through a storm of grief, corporate greed, and artistic rebellion, actually became one.

Kander & Ebb wrote some of the most iconic — and subversive — musicals of the 20th century.

In this episode of Behind the Musicals, we explore the partnership behind Cabaret and Chicago, and how their work — often in collaboration with Bob Fosse — reshaped the language of the movie musical.

From the political bite of Cabaret to the razor-sharp cynicism of Chicago, their shows didn’t just entertain — they challenged audiences and changed the genre forever.