When I picture musicals my mind goes back to the films I grew up with which far from Hairspray or High School Musical, were predominantly movies made in the 1940s through 60s (what some would deem "The Golden Age" of musicals). One of the greatest choreographers from this era was Busby Berkeley. His large numbers often placed chorus girls in geometric patterns that echoed the moving patterns of a kaleidoscope. While he specialized in large numbers also was known for his "parade of faces" during which he would individualize each chorus girl with a lingering close-up. I don't really know why this style of production lost popularity because there's something magical about that can't be compared to the often computer-enhanced elaborate scenes of today...
CONVERSATION