Reinterpretation of Bible Stories and Theological Communication through Musicals

Musical theater has become a significant medium for expressing Christian faith and communicating biblical messages in contemporary society. By integrating music, acting, and dance, musicals provide an emotionally immersive experience that allows audiences to connect deeply with biblical narratives. Unlike traditional methods of teaching or preaching, musicals use storytelling, visual effects, and dynamic performances to engage audiences on a personal and emotional level. This study delves into the historical relationship between Christianity and performance arts, focusing on the evolution of musicals as a tool for evangelism and spiritual reflection. It analyzes notable examples such as Jesus Christ Superstar, which reinterprets the life of Jesus through modern rock opera; Godspell, which brings the teachings of Matthew’s Gospel to life with vibrant music and choreography; and Maria Maria, a Korean musical that explores themes of redemption and transformation through the story of Mary Magdalene. The research further examines how musicals effectively convey theological messages by combining traditional biblical themes with modern cultural elements. Through music, dance, and storytelling, musicals bridge the gap between ancient scripture and contemporary audiences, making biblical truths more relatable and accessible. Additionally, this study highlights the cultural impact of musicals as tools for community building and fostering collective spiritual experiences. By engaging diverse audiences across different cultural contexts, Christian-themed musicals have demonstrated their potential to transcend religious boundaries while maintaining their core theological messages. As technological advancements in stage design and digital media continue to enhance the visual and auditory appeal of musical theater, its role as a medium for cultural evangelism is expected to grow. Globalization has further enabled the adaptation of biblical-themed musicals to resonate with diverse cultural backgrounds, expanding their reach beyond traditional church settings. This study concludes that musical theater not only serves as an artistic expression of faith but also as a transformative tool for spreading the gospel in innovative ways. The collaboration between Christianity and musicals is anticipated to deepen in the future, offering new opportunities to share Christian teachings with wider audiences worldwide.