Tips on how 'Glee' can avoid the sophomore slump

Gleeks still reveling in Tuesday’s season finale of "Glee" are no doubt already counting the days and anticipating Season 2, and why not? The freshman season of the hit show turned a little ragtag team of vocally gifted misfits into a pop-culture phenomenon.

But with that frenzied hype comes the undeniable pressure to avoid the sophomore slump. So we thought we’d help out and offer some tips on how to make Season 2 even better. We admit, we’re not show runners by any means here at Show Tracker, but we are in the business of offering a bit of unsolicited advice from time to time, as we pride ourselves on being experts in the shows we cover.

After reading comments on a weekly basis from our loyal and, thankfully, critical readers, I kept tabs of what you all didn't go gaga over, made my own notes and made a nifty little guide of things the crew should ponder while on hiatus. 

Easy on the guest stars: Make no mistake, there have been some phenomenal guest spots this season. It’s impossible to think of the season without Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel and Jonathan Groff and their multi-episode arcs. (I consider Mike O'Malley more of a regular than his technical “guest” status.) I'm not afraid to say Eve’s stint on the show was my favorite because she truly felt like a guest star and none of the kids got lost, which is hard when you have three Broadway vets.

I’ve yet to understand the purpose of Molly Shannon joining the ranks from what we’ve seen so far, and if she's not fleshed out next season then there is no use for her, which is a shame given her excellent comedic chops. Although I’m excited to see John Stamos as the dentist pursuing Emma’s affections, my head is pounding at the thought of another guest-star-packed season that loses sight of the background players that have yet to be given much of a chance to shine, which leads to my next tip.

More play for the background players: While I’m all for the occasional guest star, I feel there has to be a way to get our background players higher up into the mix. We’ve had some great stories with Kurt and Artie and a few with Mercedes and Tina, but now that New Directions has expanded let’s find a way to integrate the other Asian with the fantastic dance moves and the adorable but quiet black guy -- we've had lots of Brittany and Santana moments, but no story, so let's fix that as well. It seems that finding this balance is increasingly difficult, and that could partly be because the major guests have had so much to do this season.

Smartly use the new three characters: I think the newbies could go either really well or painfully awful. There is no in-between for this Gleek. I think a boyfriend for Kurt and a love interest for Mercedes will offer up some good material, as will this Christian country singer who competes with Rachel. But I do fear that trying to introduce new players when some of the others haven’t been fully developed is dangerous. The good thing about the show being set in high school? Students are easy to transfer right out the door.

No more Madonna: Please, please, please, please don’t do another all-Madonna episode! I'm begging here. It was fun the first go round, it truly was. I love the Material Girl just like anyone else, but do we really need another full hour of Madge? I mean, really?

Limit the themed episodes: This goes two ways. Although I think another Madonna episode is incredibly self-indulgent, I do think it is fun to do maybe one of these themed episodes a season because it can be something fun for the fans. Even though there were only two Lady Gaga songs in “Theatrically,” it felt like a Gaga tribute, and we don’t need to see a slew of these tribute episodes because while the show is about music, there is a story to be told. The best story that was told during the Gaga fest had nothing to do with Gaga (sorry Tina, that story line was a weak setup).

Because I know a few more of these puppies will be cooking for next season (one at the most would be fun), here's to hoping the crew finds a way to make the music propel the episode’s story because when it’s done well there are some incredible results.

Going on the whole idea of themes, it seemed that as of late Will took the backseat as the teacher and just gave them an assignment for the week to set up the episode's theme. I miss the old days when he worked with them (even if he had to teach by showing, just no more rapping … no more). There doesn't need to be so much "here's the theme that you should take away from this episode."

Know what works, and what doesn’t: After suffering through the “Funk” episode, which just fell completely flat, I realized they are still figuring out what works for them, and what doesn’t. And that's OK.

Here are some quick observations: What works is when the kids have had the entire hour. It’s yielded some of the better plots; story-driven episodes with complementing songs such as "Hell-O" and "Home" are always a match made in Gleek heaven (though some fans only care for the music, us theater geeks like a good story); and fleshing out the stronger story lines over time has benefited viewers. What doesn’t work, however, is abandoning stories after they’ve been set up (we never forget); the often cheesy after-school-special approach; and some of the random decision making when it comes to song selections ("Ice, Ice Baby," sigh).

Think before you sing: I’ve always respected how the kids of New Directions have an eclectic mix of songs that offer something for everybody – but for Season 2, dig even deeper. We’ve had a lot of ‘80s classics and some great Broadway tunes, but it’s time to up the ante. The greatness of the show is that, regardless of how viewers may feel about a particular song choice, the show is introducing a new generation to classic music. Let the kids explore Elvis, Bob Marley and everything else. And, of course, for the young uns out there, throw us a bone with some contemporary cuts. There has always been a great blend of old and new. Now that it's Season 2, more risks in song choices is the way to go, and let’s be honest: There is a line of artists begging for the “Glee” treatment.

Too much of a good thing: Absence makes the heart grow fonder. A summer break is something fans need, regardless of whether they want to admit it. Once the show became a phenom, it drifted into that dreaded overexposure category, which very much worries me for Season 2 and beyond. It’s great to see this cast truly blow up because they are wickedly talented and I don’t mind seeing them everywhere.

But now that they have become lil’ pop icons comes the inevitable oversaturation of merchandise. I’m absolutely not prepared to see "Glee" merch at Macy's or Claire's. My stomach churns at the thought of a Christmas album, karaoke machines, musical greeting cards, pajamas, games, books (“Glee: The Beginning,” “Glee: Foreign Exchange”), bedding and cosmetics. Though I admit a box of “Glee”-branded Cheerios would be a nutritious way to start the day (make it happen, General Mills and Fox). The three, OK five, soundtracks for one season alone was enough to make my wallet say “no mas.” I'm sure beyond Matthew Morrison's debut album we'll be treated to albums from other cast members -- and that I welcome with open arms.

On behalf of Fox, I apologize ahead of time to the parents who will undoubtedly be stuck with the oh-so-tragic decision between the “Glee” bedspread, karaoke machine of the new line of clothes and accessories. Gosh, could you imagine if your kid liked "Harry Potter," "Twilight" and "Glee"? Yikes!

Any tips I left out? What are you hoping to see in Season 2?

-- Gerrick D. Kennedy

twitter.com/GerrickKennedy

Photo credit: FOX

Related:

Complete Show Tracker coverage of 'Glee'

Comments

[David A.]

How about "Retain at least a semblance of reality"?

When the credits roll, I don't want to find myself wondering how many typing monkeys it took to write what I just watched.

[Ruth]

Let's hear the other three members sing solos and bring on Rachel's dads. Where were they when she was looking up her biological mom and why aren't they front and center whenever she competes? How about siblings? Is everyone an only child on this show? We fans want to know these things.

[beancounter]

I'm going to echo the "What works is when the kids have had the entire hour" advice. 30-something here who adores the show, but was bored by the adult-centric storylines this season, wishing I could ffwd through the kristin chenoweth-will schuester-terri schuester scenes. I'm not looking forward to seeing plot-time wasted on some dentist-emma-schu triangle next season. I watch because I care about the student's characters, enjoy seeing them "discover" the music we all recognize, and enjoy the trips down memory lane through their eyes.

[Seth]

Are you kidding about Madonna? That was by far the best episode to date, I'd love another all Madge episode as her music catalog is the greatest of any female artist. Would love a U2, Beatles, Stones, Billy Joel/Elton John, MJ and Motown episdoe as well.

[Margaret]

I am a true gleek- like, MAJOR gleek- so when I say this I am not kidding around. I was a bit dissapointed in the season finale when Quinn having her baby was doubled up with Vocal Adrenaline's song. I understand that there are time constraints, but Quinn's baby was such a major part of the show that I think it deserved full attention. Also, if the baby was a month premature why didn't it look that way?

Oh, and I would LOVE if they did a Taylor Swift episode!!!!

Other than that, keep up the amazing work Glee cast!!!!

[Bettie]

Speaking of character-driven, the pilot was the best episode of all. It's been all downhill ever since.

If you're going to start a storyline or introduce a character, stick with it for at least 8 bars. Unfortunately this first season, you had more characters and storylines begin and then disappear faster than you could say "What?"

[Mallory]

This article is A+

[Donna]

Love the show. Love the storylines centered around the kids. Loved the way they handled the birth of Quinn's baby. Hated the fact that they had Rachel's "mom" adopt the baby. Give me more Kurt singing. I literally hope every week that he gets another amazing solo like the "House is Not a Home" episode. Love Rachel. Love the duets she has with her "mom". Give us more great singing. That's all.

[b]

Ive loved everything about the first season! the only things that I would change would be less brittany and santana i just dont get them they arent that funny and they are slightly annoying. Give mike and matt more dialogue and have an episode about them. More about finn!!!! and puck and artie they are the best three.

[Anna]

Wonderful article. I agree with everything in it.

They just need to cut down on the cheesiness. The pilot had the perfect mix but I feel that in the back nine nearly every episode had a message thrown in our faces. I would love to see this show progress next season, we need more storyline and more character arcs. Hopefully, as you said, they're still finding they're feet and now know what works for them.

Second season can either go brilliant or very, very badly.

[Allison]

A few other notes:
I just re-watched the season on iTunes, and i think what was missing in the "back nine" was the voice overs.... The inner monologs for Puck, Finn, Rachel and the gang were the best writing on TV. In moving away from that, i think some of the essential Glee-ness was sacrificed for sure. Also, Emma and Will should stay tortured and apart but longing...it's just so damn cute.

[Suzy Hosea-Ortiz]

Would love for Idina Menzel to stay on and a guest appearance from Megan Mullally would be great, too! No, we don't need another Madonna episode. The less I know about the teacher's lives, the better - except Sue Sylvester - she MAKES the show!

[Scott]

I agree with everything you said. I dont really like all the theme episodes in the second half of the season. I prefer it more when they just pick any song that fits the moment. I loved the Vocal Adrenaline/Baby birth scene and thought it was wonderfully done. I DONT want another Modanna episode or really any other eps that involve just one group. I loved some adult stories like April/Will but they should not take up to much time. Will's stories should be with the kids. And Sue needs more scenes with her sis cause theyre all brilliant. And backround characters need more.

[gleek]

OMG the Madonna episode is NOT the best episode ever. get a clue Seth....not a fan of the themed episodes but your ideas of a U2, Beatles, Stones, Billy Joel/Elton John, MJ and Motown are pretty great.

no thanks on a taylor swift episode.

[Ashley Price]

"Theatrically" episode was definitely my favorite. By far.

I loved the wacky costumes, and yes, even though the plot wasn't very well-written, the music, energy and costumes really excited me! The "Glee" cast can definitely pull off Gaga. I think what really interested me in that episode WAS the costumes, though. The craziness of them just made me smile. I'd like to see more of a variety of costumes when the students perform!
The crazier, the better!

[Hannah]

i COMPLETELY agree... tone down the guest stars, themes and what happened to a low bugdet (they had flame throwers and entire new sets in the auditorium in gaga episode) the books i think will be ok, it just wont be the same with rachels obnoxious comments with no song to follow (god i love that girl) and i think they should explore relationships more between puck and quinn, and maybe a match up of Bryan Ryan and terri!!! :P

[Liz]

Excellent commentary - and great advice for Fox. While I don't agree with every point, I strongly agree with the authors overall theme - MORE STORY!!! I think Glee producers tried to jam in more songs per episode during the second half of season one which had the unfortunate result of losing the story - or making it grossly choppy at least. (What happened to Quinn until the last episodes or two? What was Rachel's reaction to Finn's impromptu "I love you"...does she not get dialogue in that episode?) The reason why most of us fell in love with Glee in the first place is that the characters we care about are singing some fab music - not the other way around. Keep us caring, the music will follow.....

[Liz]

I agree that there were many lines started that never went anywhere. My biggest hope for season two is that it comes back and ties up some of those loose ends. I would love to see some of the season 1 story lines flesh out. That is the great thing about life depicted on television - things can loop back. I would love to see Jesse come back - not to mess with Rachel/Finn but to clarify what happened. I would love to see Becky a bit more - what happened to her? And Jacob? He's a bit of a mess too but he always had great lines that made me laugh. The baby does need to be discussed and not dropped like a it never happened. And I too miss the voice overs - please bring them back!!!!

[karrots]

Personally, I loved the madonna episode, and if i could only pick one theme for an ep of next season i would vote micheal jackson. although that may be a bit predicable, i would love it so much :) the beatles might also be cool... although again probably an obvious choice :P

[Jacie Dawn]

I recently read a wonderful article about the issue of "Ryan Murphy syndrome." Humerous title aside, it made some wonderful points, one of which was how many of his shows start off beautifully with eccentric, yet lovable characters and a unique story line. However, once the show picks up steam, the writers begin noticing what "works" with the audience and force feed it to them again, and again, and... You get the picture.

I believe a major point for season 2 should be encouraging Ian Brennan and Brad Falchuk to explore the boundaries of their creativity and shy away from the conventional. For example: Don't throw in a Sue/Brittany one-liner just for the heck of it. Use it when the story warrants it.

Addressing some other comments on this article:
@David- As of right now, the original creators are the main writers. If you watch the credits for the show or any of the writer talks, Ian Brennan, Brad Falchuk, & Ryan Murphy do most, if not all of the work!
@Ruth- I know Heather Morris is itching to sing! With her and Naya's signing on to be featured roles next season, we'll hopefully get more of them. Also, Murphy has commented that he doesn't want to bring on Rachel's dads yet. He likes the viewers being able to feel their parenting influence without seeing them. He would like to bring them on in the future, though.
@Margaret- Yes, they should have given more time to Quinn AND Puck after the baby's birth. However, you must admit that the Bohemian Rhapsody scene was brilliantly edited. Also, if you notice in one of the choir room scenes from "Journey," Mr. Schu mentions it's been nine months since everything started, meaning Quinn should have been at term.
@Everyone who mentioned different theme episodes- These are great, but I think that what would work better with the show theming episodes around genres or decades, rather than artists, unless the chosen artist has a variety and major selection of songs. This helps the writers be able to create a strong story without sacrificing for the limited number of song selections.

PS- I've written more thoughts on Glee in a personal article linked in my URL!