I'm interested in the theater because I'm interested in communication with audiences. Otherwise I would be in concert music.

In this quote, Stephen Sondheim explains his deep interest in the theater by emphasizing the importance of communication with audiences. He suggests that the core of his attraction to the theater lies in the ability to connect with and engage people through live performances. Unlike concert music, which can be a more solitary or intimate experience, theater offers a dynamic space where artists can interact directly with an audience, creating a shared experience in real time.

The origin of this quote comes from Sondheim’s career as a legendary composer, lyricist, and theater artist. Known for his groundbreaking work in musical theater, Sondheim’s interest in audience connection is central to his creative process. His works, such as Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, and West Side Story, are celebrated not only for their complex music and lyrics but also for their emotional depth and ability to communicate profound themes to theatergoers.

Sondheim’s comment also highlights the difference between different forms of music and performance. While concert music can be powerful and moving, it often focuses on individual expression, where the audience is a passive listener. In contrast, theater requires an active exchange between performer and spectator, making it a unique platform for communication. Sondheim values this interaction because it allows him to directly influence the emotional and intellectual responses of the audience.

Ultimately, Sondheim’s quote reveals his belief that the theater is a medium that allows for a deeper, more interactive form of artistic expression. He views it as a space where the performer and audience come together to experience something larger than themselves. This connection through live performance is what drew him to theater, distinguishing it from other musical forms like concert music, which does not offer the same level of audience engagement.