Musical Theatre is often referred to as one of the only uniquely American art forms. In this course, students will be introduced to this art form through its essential feature: the song. Songs, as both a narrative feature and a piece of music, are analyzed from a variety of theatrical analytical perspectives, including the choices theatre artists must make in the creation of a theatrical production and their cultural contexts. Employing critical thinking, students will develop their script analysis skills and then apply their findings through performance. In this sense, students will approach ‘the song’ as a communicative tool, an analytical lens, a cultural artifact, and creative opportunity, investing in the experience of a song holistically. Students will study musicals from a range of composers, periods, and styles, including the Golden Age of Musical Theatre, Concept Musicals, and Mega-Musicals.

This course provides an in-depth study of musical theatre performance. Students will utilize textual analysis, script research, and character development to hone their skills in the rehearsal and performance of scenes, duets, trios, and group numbers. A variety of musical theatre texts, from the Golden Age to the contemporary repertoire, will be used to integrate the skills of acting, singing, and dancing together into a single performance. Students can expect a course that is highly experiential, but supported by readings, lecture, and discussion. By the end of the semester, students will have gained experience and understanding of the styles and conventions related to several significant historical periods and genres of musical theatre.