The term "romantic trapezoid" is often used in theatre to describe a love triangle that involves three people, rather than the traditional two. This type of relationship dynamic has been featured prominently in a number of Broadway shows, captivating audiences with its complex interweaving of emotions and desires.
One of the earliest examples of the romantic trapezoid can be seen in the legendary musical, West Side Story. The story centers around two rival street gangs in New York City, the Jets and the Sharks. Amidst the tension and violence between the groups, a romance begins to blossom between Tony from the Jets and Maria, the sister of the Sharks' leader. However, their love is complicated by the fact that Maria's brother is determined to keep them apart. To further complicate matters, Tony's ex-girlfriend, Anita, becomes involved in their love affair, setting up a situation where each character is deeply entangled with one another.
Another classic Broadway show that features a romantic trapezoid is Les Misérables. At the heart of the story is Jean Valjean, who spends years on the run from the law after stealing a loaf of bread. He eventually assumes a new identity and becomes a respected member of society. Along the way, he encounters Fantine, a struggling single mother forced into prostitution to provide for her daughter. As their relationship deepens, Fantine falls ill and passes away. Before she dies, she asks Jean Valjean to take care of her daughter, Cosette. However, Cosette is also sought after by the wealthy and unscrupulous Thénardiers, leading to a competition for her affection.
One of the most iconic examples of a romantic trapezoid in recent years can be found in the hit musical, Hamilton. Based on the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, the show explores his love affairs with his wife, Eliza, her sister Angelica, and Hamilton's mistress, Maria Reynolds. While Eliza is loyal and devoted to Hamilton, Angelica and Maria offer him a sense of excitement and freedom that he craves. Throughout the show, the audience is left wondering which woman Hamilton truly loves, and whether any of them can ever truly be happy with him.
The romantic trapezoid has proven to be an enduring element of Broadway storytelling. It provides audiences with a complex web of relationships to follow, as well as an opportunity for characters to explore their desires and emotions in ways they may not have thought possible. Whether it's the tension-filled love triangle of West Side Story or the multi-layered romances of Hamilton, the romantic trapezoid continues to captivate and enthrall theatre-goers around the world.