Civil War: The Complete Work, The: Musical synopsis
Civil War: The Complete Work, The synopsis
Synopsis: The Civil War: The Complete Work.
A Musical Chronicle of the American Civil War.
The Civil War is a concept musical that brings to life the struggles, hopes, and tragedies of the American Civil War. Rather than following a single storyline, it presents a collection of vignettes told through songs, letters, and spoken word. The musical captures the perspectives of soldiers, enslaved individuals, civilians, and historical figures, giving voice to those who lived through one of the most defining periods in American history.Stories of Union and Confederate Soldiers.
The musical follows the personal journeys of men on both sides of the battlefield. Union soldiers sing of their dedication to preserving the nation, while Confederate soldiers express their fight for what they see as their way of life. The songs highlight their camaraderie, fears, and heartbreak as they endure the horrors of war. Tracks like "Brother, My Brother" emphasize the emotional weight of fighting against fellow Americans, while "Tell My Father" showcases the deep sorrow of young soldiers facing mortality.The Voices of Enslaved People.
Through stirring gospel and spiritual-inspired songs, the musical also portrays the enslaved individuals yearning for freedom. Songs such as "Freedom’s Child" and "Someday" capture the pain of bondage and the unyielding hope for a better future. These songs serve as powerful reminders of the war’s true stakes beyond the battlefield.The Civilian Experience.
Women and families left behind also play a key role in the narrative. Letters from home are set to music, expressing longing and fear as loved ones face the possibility of never returning. Songs like "Missing You (My Bill)" and "Sarah" reveal the personal sacrifices made by those waiting for their husbands, fathers, and sons to return.Leadership and Legacy.
Historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass appear through spoken word segments, emphasizing the political and moral struggles that shaped the war. Their words add gravitas to the musical, reinforcing the broader implications of the conflict.A Powerful and Emotional Conclusion.
As the war draws to a close, the music shifts from sorrow to reflection and reconciliation. Songs like "The Day the Sun Stood Still" acknowledge the devastation left behind, while "Finale" brings a sense of unity and hope for a healed nation. The musical ends on a poignant note, reminding audiences of the sacrifices made and the lessons learned. The Civil War: The Complete Work is more than a retelling of history—it is an emotional journey through one of America’s darkest and most transformative eras. Through its rich blend of music and storytelling, it captures the human cost of war and the enduring power of hope.Last Update:August, 08th 2025
Civil War: The Complete Work, The Lyrics: Song List
- Disk 1
- Prologue
- Brother, My Brother
- Lincoln: The Better Angels Of Our Nature
- By The Sword/Sons Of Dixie
- Tell My Father
- My Name Is Fredrick Douglass
- Freedom's Child
- Missing You (My Bill)
- If Prayin' Were Horses
- Virginia
- The Day The Sun Stood Still
- Oh, Be Joyful!
- Frederick Douglass: The Destiny Of America
- Father How Long?
- Reprise: Brother, My Brother
- A Nurse's Diary
- I Never Knew His Name
- Still I Rise
- River Jordan
- Disk 2
- Lincoln: The Bottom Is Out Of The Tub
- How Many Devils?
- Old Gray Coat
- With These Hands
- The White House At Night
- A Candle In The Window
- Greenback
- Sojourner Truth: Ain't I A Woman?
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Someday
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Regimental Drummer
- I'll Never Pass This Way Again
- Lincoln: Letter To Mrs. Bixby
-
Five Boys
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Judgment Day
- Sarah
- The Honor Of Your Name
- Northbound Train
- Last Waltz For Dixie
- In Great Deeds
- For The Glory