It is discussed in this dissertation the use of dreams in the musical. It is argued that the majority of the
musicals have, if not lyrical content about dreaming, some kind of dream imagery through lyrics or the music. Also looked at is the way musicals have been successful and if it has anything to do with dreams, the subconscious and memory. These are looked at with reference to Anthony Storr and many different practioners of music. The American Dream is thought to be a major influence on musicals particularly those of an earlier era such as The Broadway Melody (1929) and the Al Jolson musicals. Two major musicals are explored, The Rocky Horror Show written and composed by Richard O’ Brien and Into The Woods with the book written by James Lapine and composed by Stephen Sondheim. The major ideas explored in the two musicals are that The Rocky Horror Show is a story of two characters exploring their dreams and Into The Woods is exploring the consequences of what happen when people dream selfishly. In conclusion, there are references and dream imagery in both the musicals and dreams are involved in many more genres of the arts.