Dynamics provide an excellent way to enhance contrasting moods and emotions in MT. Though a large portion of Defying Gravity is forte to support the excitement and energy of it, dynamics range from piano (p) to fortissimo (ff) to match the changing thoughts and feelings of the characters.
Notable examples:
Piano dynamics are used in places like the bridge (bar 88, 2'48) and during more tender passages such as bar 24 (0'43).
Mezzoforte and mezzopiano dynamics are used too. A good example is the underscore from bar 111 (3'42) leading into the intro reprise from bar 115 (3'53). The underscore is mezzopiano following the loud chorus which then leads into mezzoforte. This stripping back of dynamics allows the music to be retrospective as the characters decide to go their separate ways.
The final chorus (bar 152, 4'59) and coda from bar 168 (5'28) is fortissimo to support the climactic energy needed to close the first act.
Subito forte (sf) and sforzando (sfz) are used to provide sudden loud changes in the dynamics. At the beginning this suits the restlessness of the characters.
Crescendos and diminuendos allow dynamics to change more gradually such as the two bar crescendo from bar 6 (0'10) and the start of the bridge (bar 88, 2'48) which comes in forte before shrinking with a diminuendo to a more subdued and mystical quiet..