Extravagance is not something new to the Broadway stage, but it has experienced a resurgence over the past few years. Productions like “Big Fish” and “Matilda” are replete with amazing sets, gorgeous costumes and incredible props.

However, what most of the elaborate musicals have in common is how they are all adaptations. With adaptations of movies and books taking over the industry, musicals have been forced to keep up with the special effects of the film industry by presenting a more faithful version of the story. Additionally, the lavish elements presented onstage can help achieve the magical feeling in the theater.

In “Big Fish,” for example, the use of extravagance helps the audience differentiate the reality from the fantasy in the stories that the main character tells. The actors are dressed in outrageous costumes that lend a fairy-tale vibe to the stories, making “Big Fish” all the more magical. The set allows for the show to flow effortlessly between reality and fantasy by making everything over the top. The production cab thus achieve a dreamlike state when appropriate.

“Matilda” also has a fantastical element to it, shown through breathtakingly imagined scenes. The beloved children’s book comes to life on stage in the same way it did on screen in 1996. The extravagant set design and props convey the wonderment of Matilda’s powers. She is essentially a young witch, after all, and the audience needs a demonstration of what she is able to accomplish with her powers — a demonstration best shown through extraordinary features.

Magic-filled musicals such as these should be expected to have an extravagant air. Fantasy is a popular genre for books and movies, and it only makes sense that it will transition to the stage. When it does, the opulence of magic and storytelling creates a wonderful spectacle of theater.

A version of this article appeared in the Thursday, Dec. 5 print edition. Bailey Ayers is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].