Final answer:
Stephen Sondheim's shows 'Company' and 'Assassins' are quintessential examples of the concept musical form, which gained prominence in the 1970s with a focus on thematic coherence and commentary, particularly during times of significant social change in the U.S.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shows by Stephen Sondheim, such as Company and Assassins, are examples of the concept musical form. This form emerged prominently in the 1970s, with Company being recognized as the first notable example. At a time when the United States was experiencing significant social upheaval, with events such as the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War altering public consciousness, audiences sought theatrical experiences that reflected more complex social realities, rather than the conventional musical narratives of romance and simple plot structures. The concept musical, therefore, was defined by its innovative structure where songs often serve as commentaries on the action, rather than direct progressions of plot, and thematic coherence is prioritized over traditional storytelling.
Significant productions like Company demonstrated a departure from conventional musical theatre by exploring adult relationships and existential crises, elements that resonated with the evolving sensibilities of the audience. Marianne Elliott's 2021 revival of Company on Broadway continued to showcase the timeless relevance and impact of the concept musical format, which celebrates its daring and deviation from normative narrative structures.