In Musicals, we can identify an overall message to take away from what we have watched based on the conflict of the characters. Some key elements that help the audience better understand are the dialogue and the music. For example, the screenplay “Rent” by Johnathan Larson helps picture the story of Two Individuals who struggle with Addiction and Rent, through the perspective of the Main Character, Mark. In doing so, Larson uses the literary device of Imagery through dialogue and helps the audience better understand the environment of the Musical. Furthermore, by using music, Larson can target a specific audience. Especially because this play took place during the HIV epidemic, the use of key elements such as Dialogue and Music better allows Larson to convey his message through the play. By being able to compare both videos of the cast recording (tune up 2 and tune up 3 ) we can understand the plot of Rent through just dialogue between each character.

One key element that Larson uses in the musical, “Rent” is dialogue. By using the element the audience are able to characterize and be able to further understand the conflict in the musical. For example when listening into the conversation between characters we visualize how they are  impacted by both external and internal conflict of not having enough money for rent but as well as struggling with addiction. Due to the fact that the author uses specific dialogue to convey this.

For instance, in the cast recording Tune up 2, with the use of dialogue in specific the script and what is being told. We are able to identify the internal conflict that Mark, who seems to be the main character, is going through. In addition with the use of the phone call between him, Roger and Collins. Throughout this conversation we find out the friendship between Roger and Mark, but before them was Mark, Collins and Maureen. Whereas they all live in the same apartment together however we find out that Collin’s is their landlord and Mark and Roger are behind in rent. And may be evicted if they don’t pay. Moreover, Mark has been affected and feels bad because of his recent break up with ex girlfriend Maureen. Therefore with the use of this conversation between each other and the dialogue spoken, we can identify that Mark is going through a lot whether that’s his breakup, rent. However he does have friendships that help him during these difficult times.

Moreover, through the use of dialogue we are also able to understand external conflict through dialogue as well as music. For example the tone that each character expresses when talking also helps the audience characterize and have a better understanding of the external conflict. In addition, in the cast recording title, tune up 3 it conveys Mark tone has a shift in tone and sounds dramatic and seems to have a cry for help rather than his energetic voice in the first recording. Therefore through the use of speech and dialogue we can identify that he is mentally not okay. Moreover the audience finds out that due to the HIV/AIDS epidemic Mark and Roger find out they have aids. Lastly with the help of the instruments and music, we can identify a shift in mood which brings more of the sadder theme of the musical then per usual. Which portrays how with the use of dialogue and the tone of character we can identify their emotions but with the help of the music in the background it helps picture the environment and get a grasp on who and why is feeling that way.

Throughout the screen play the use of dialogue we are able to hear and characterize who is a part of the play and what it is there going through. But also what exactly helps the characters overcome their difficulties. However dialogue not only consists of just speech but also the script and what exactly are the actors saying. On page 10-11, Larson conveys “WHAT BINDS THE FABRIC TOGETHER WHEN THE RAGING, SHIFTING WINDS OF CHANGE KEEP RIPPING AWAY BENNY DRAW A LINE IN THE SAND AND THEN MAKE A STAND ROGER USE YOUR CAMERA TO SPAR MARK USE YOUR GUITAR (ALL) WHEN THEY ACT TOUGH-YOU CALL THEIR BLUFF RENT( MARK & ROGER) WE’RE NOT GONNA PAY (MARK, ROGER & HALF THE COMPANY) WE’RE NOT GONNA PAY (MARK, ROGER & OTHER HALF OF COMPANY) WE’RE NOT GONNA PAY.”

Therefore, with the use of dialogue within the script, the audience can understand what helps the protagonist go through their struggles, but it also shows the overall message Larson is trying to convey, which is community. For example, in the dialogue we can clearly see that because of the fact that Mark and Roger struggle with the rent. Other people in the community struggle together, but instead of trying to solve the issue on their own. The community decides to go through the issue together and instead revolts against the company. And the importance of sticking together to be able to undergo social injustice that everyone is facing, and to be able to bond over similar conflicts. Which could eventually also help solve it.

All in all with the help of dialogue the audience is able to identify conflict within the characters and how they are impacted by it. For instance by comparing 2 recording cast videos of the Musical Rent. Not necessarily by being able to visually see the screen play we can identify the theme of the play. But also by hearing it and the dialogue communicated. Therefore through the use of this we are able to undertake the Larson message that no matter the conflict someone is going through, it’s not everlasting but temporary but who you are surrounded by and how you go through the conflict itself is how it would impact you. For instance, Mark is seen as a character that is going through a lot and nothing is ever going his way whether that’s having aids, addiction, behind in rent, or going through a breakup because his community is strong and supportive and his friendships he has. He never gives up and continues to push forward.