We Filipinos do love our music—so it’s no wonder shows such as Glee keep us glued to the tube for hours! Although we’re sad to see the gifted Glee-ers of William McKinley High School take their last bow, we’re lucky to have new song-filled TV series to look forward to. And let’s not forget that we can always go back to season one and review how the kids of New Directions got us hooked on choral music and elaborate dance performances.
Still on a high from Glee‘s finale? Why not call your friends over for a musical marathon? Here are five shows, both old and new, to give you your fix of awesome tunes, entertaining stories, and talented actor-singers. Of course we had to include Glee in our list!
1. Fame
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDUs5l6CIXY
Let’s start old school with this 80s classic. You might’ve known that the 2009 film Fame was a remake of a 1980 flick, but did you know that there was a television series too? Like the movies, Fame the Series tells of the trials and triumphs of those at the New York City High School for the Performing Arts, which was inspired by the city’s La Guardia High School. Think of it as the forerunner to Glee, only with higher stakes, because everyone in the school is extremely talented and out to secure a good future for themselves. Fame scored several Emmys and Golden Globe Awards and even saw a teenage Janet Jackson starring as a student in season four.
2. Glee
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FaJshIWdpU
Speaking of high schools, who hasn’t heard of the TV phenomenon that made choral performing cool? Glee has had a mighty awesome run since it premiered on Fox network in May 2009, racking up over 70 awards as of its finale in March 2015. There’s plenty to love about this comedy-drama series, from its focus on the so-called underdogs of the William McKinley High School social hierarchy to its catchy mix of throwback tunes and current hits to its unflinching portrayal of real issues. Of course, we’ve got to give props to its quirky, lovable cast and surprise guests. We’re definitely revisiting the New Directions for many years to come!
[crp]3. Smash
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W0oHSXPoFo
If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind a Broadway production, this is the show for you. Smash gives us an inside look at the chaos, drama, and competitiveness of theater life. You’ll see how a musical is conceptualized, how the cast and production team are assembled, and how they struggle not just to put on a show but also to sustain it past the opening night. Bringing all that drama to life are familiar faces including Debra Messing, Katharine McPhee, The Last Five Years‘ Jeremy Jordan, and even Uma Thurman and Jennifer Hudson. Smash may have only had a two-season run, but we’re sure you’ll get caught up in its story and enjoy Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman’s original music.
4. Empire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCDMJyKPiLo
It’s never easy to mix family with business, even if it does involve some darn good music. In this new series, ties are tested as the members of the Lyon family struggle for power over Empire Entertainment, a big-time hip-hop music company. Empire features Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson, and Jussie Smollett, with appearances by Jennifer Hudson, Naomi Campbell, and Courtney Love. And since we are talking about music stars, don’t be surprised to see some well-known artists, such as Mary J. Blige, Rita Ora, Gladys Knight, and more.
5. Galavant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWnDwM0RSX4
In the mood for something lighter? Galavant‘s right up your alley. This comedic fairy tale will get your spirit up as you root for the handsome Galahad to thwart the villainous King Richard and win his happily ever after. Look forward to original compositions by Alan Menken—best known for his musical contributions to Walt Disney flicks including Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin, not to mention Enchanted and Tangled—and Glenn Slater, the lyricist behind stage productions such as Sister Act, The Little Mermaid, and Andrew Lloyd Weber’s upcoming musical School of Rock.
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