When Animals and Objects Sing Trivia Quiz

Answer:

The use of non-human performers in music has historical roots in various forms of storytelling and artistic expression. Animals, objects and mythical creatures were often anthropomorphised and given voices to convey moral lessons, cultural values and entertainment in ancient literature, folk tales and mythology. This tradition continued in the theatre, where characters such as talking animals or enchanted objects appeared in plays and operas, often playing allegorical or symbolic roles. Here are twelve examples from musicals. Please note that the year given for each musical is the year the stage show premiered. The release dates of the films may be different.

"Feed Me (Git It)" from "Little Shop of Horrors" (premiered 1982 Off-Broadway at the Orpheum Theatre in New York City) was written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman. This song is sung by Audrey II, a talking, singing plant with a taste for human blood. Audrey II uses this song to persuade Seymour to feed her, showing the manipulative and sinister nature of the plant. The musical is based on the 1960 black comedy film "The Little Shop of Horrors".

"Memory" from "Cats" (1981, New London Theatre at West End) was composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Trevor Nunn. It is performed by Grizabella, a cat who was once glamorous but is now shunned by her peers. This poignant ballad reflects on Grizabella's past and offers a touching performance by a non-human character. This musical is based on T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" and is not adapted from a film.

"Under the Sea" from "The Little Mermaid" (2008, Lunt-Fontanne Theatre at Broadway) was created by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman. Sung by Sebastian the crab, this lively, Caribbean-inspired song aims to convince Ariel that life underwater is better than life on land. Sebastian's perspective adds charm and humour to the song. The musical is based on the 1989 Disney animated film "The Little Mermaid".

"Hakuna Matata" from "The Lion King" (1997, Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis) was written by Elton John and Tim Rice. Timon, a meerkat, and Pumbaa, a warthog, sing this carefree anthem to teach Simba about their worry-free lifestyle. The song's philosophy and playful tone are enhanced by the characters' unique outlook on life. The musical is based on the 1994 Disney animated film "The Lion King".

"Be Our Guest" from "Beauty and the Beast" (1994, Palace Theatre in New York City) was penned by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman. Lumière, an enchanted candelabra, and other animated household objects invite Belle to a grand dinner and show their hospitality in this entertaining number. The enchanted objects create a magical atmosphere during the performance. The musical is based on the 1991 Disney animated film "Beauty and the Beast".

"The Bare Necessities" from "The Jungle Book" (2013) was written by Terry Gilkyson. The 2013 stage adaptation by Mary Zimmerman premiered at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago and later moved to the Huntington Theatre in Boston. It features music and lyrics from the 1967 Disney film. Baloo the bear sings this light-hearted song to Mowgli, teaching him to enjoy the simple things in life.

"When You Wish Upon a Star" from "Pinocchio" (2017) was originally created by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington. The 2017 stage adaptation by the National Theatre in London retells the story with a new score by Duncan Sheik, using songs from the 1940 Disney film. Jiminy Cricket, the narrator and conscience of the story, sings this iconic song about the power of dreams and wishes.

"Morning Report" from "The Lion King" (1997, Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis) was written by Elton John and Tim Rice. Zazu, a hornbill and royal advisor, updates Mufasa on the goings-on in the Pride Lands in this humorous song. The song was written for the stage production and does not appear in the 1994 movie.

"Horton Hears a Who!" from "Seussical" (2000, Colonial Theatre in Boston) was composed by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Horton, an elephant, sings about his discovery of the tiny Whos living on a speck of dust, highlighting his determination and kindness. Horton's compassion shines through in this heartfelt performance. The musical is based on the works of Dr. Seuss and is not adapted from a specific film.

"Hello, Little Girl" from "Into the Woods" (1987, Old Globe Theatre in San Diego) was created by Stephen Sondheim. The wolf, a cunning predator, sings this song to Little Red Riding Hood, luring her off the path with his deceptive charm. The wolf's dangerous lure captivates the audience. This musical is based on fairy tales and was not adapted from a film.

"Messing About in a Boat" from "The Wind in the Willows" (2016, Theatre Royal in Plymouth, England) was written by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Ratty and Mole, two anthropomorphic animals, sing about their leisurely adventures on the river, embodying the story's pastoral charm. This musical is based on Kenneth Grahame's 1908 novel, "The Wind in the Willows", rather than a specific film.

"Travel Song" from "Shrek the Musical" (2008, 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle) was created by Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek, an ogre, and Donkey sing this hilarious duet during their journey to rescue Princess Fiona. The song shows their growing friendship and adds humour and heart to their adventure. The musical is based on the 2001 DreamWorks animated film "Shrek".

Six of the quiz songs were performed by human characters:

"Any Dream Will Do" from "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" (1968), sung by Joseph
"I Dreamed a Dream" from "Les Misérables" (1980), sung by Fantine
"All That Jazz" from "Chicago" (1975), sung by Velma Kelly
"If I Were a Rich Man" from "Fiddler on the Roof" (1964), sung by Tevye
"Send in the Clowns" from "A Little Night Music" (1973), sung by Desirée Armfeldt
"Maria" from "West Side Story" (1957), sung by Tony