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Which musical written by Stephen Sondheim utilizes Brechtian techniques of alienation?

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Final answer:

Stephen Sondheim's musical 'Company' employs Brechtian techniques of alienation, which align with the sociopolitical changes during the era of its creation, encouraging the audience to engage critically rather than emotionally.

Step-by-step explanation:

The musical written by Stephen Sondheim that utilizes Brechtian techniques of alienation is Company. Brechtian techniques, often referred to as the alienation effect or "Verfremdungseffekt", were pioneered by playwright Bertolt Brecht. They are designed to prevent the audience from losing itself passively and emotionally in the narrative, instead making it a critical observer that questions the sociopolitical implications of the story. Sondheim's Company is famous for its non-linear narrative and the use of its songs to act as a commentary on the action rather than to advance the plot, mirroring Brecht's concept of alienating the audience.

This technique encourages the audience to intellectually engage with the storyline and the characters' motivations, challenging conventional storytelling in musical theatre and aligning with the turmoil and desire for social change during the era it was created.

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