In This Corner (from Kinky Boots): Piano/Vocal/Chords

This score balances accessibility with theatrical sophistication. Lauper's melodies are immediately singable and memorable, yet the arrangements by Stephen Oremus offer enough harmonic richness and character detail to keep pianists engaged through repeated rehearsals. The collection serves singers seeking contemporary Broadway material that doesn't demand operatic technique while giving them genuinely substantial songs to sink their teeth into.

These songs pulse with the energy and optimism of a musical that celebrates self-acceptance and unlikely friendship. The score moves between vulnerable character moments and exuberant ensemble numbers, with melodies that feel both contemporary and theatrical, grounded in genuine emotion rather than theatrical grandeur.

Singers performing contemporary musical theatre repertoire will find songs that honor character arcs and emotional authenticity without requiring classical vocal training. Pianists and guitarists accompanying musical theatre singers need reliable, well-crafted arrangements that sit comfortably under the voice while offering enough harmonic interest to maintain musicality through multiple rehearsals.

• Lean into the conversational quality of the lyrics. Many of these songs function as character monologues or intimate dialogues, so treat the phrasing as speech-like rather than purely melodic; let the words lead the phrasing.
• Pay attention to the chordal colors in the piano arrangement. Oremus's voicings often contain unexpected extensions that add emotional nuance, so voice them clearly rather than playing them as mere accompaniment.
• Balance the pop sensibility of the melodic line with the emotional specificity of each character's journey. These songs work best when performed with genuine vulnerability rather than performed-Broadway energy.
• Use the key and register choices as character guides. When a song sits high for a singer, notice whether it's meant to convey vulnerability or defiance; the placement carries dramatic weight.

Include selections from this score in a musical theatre recital or showcase featuring contemporary Broadway music. Solo pieces like "Charlie's Soliloquy" and "Soul of a Man" work as audition repertoire for singers seeking material that reveals character and emotional range. Duets and ensemble numbers from the collection can anchor a concert exploring contemporary musical theatre composition.

• Singing contemporary melody that balances pop sensibility with theatrical phrasing
• Reading and playing chord symbols in pop and musical theatre contexts
• Understanding character-driven vocal performance and emotional specificity in song interpretation
• Navigating extended and chromatic harmonic language in modern songwriting
• Accompanying singers with sensitivity to lyrical content and dramatic intent