JAN 050 - On with the Show: The American Musical Unleashed

Lower division
Full credit
In-Person
MTuThF, 9:15am -11:50am

“Let’s Go on with the Show!” For over a century, the musical has remained one of the most popular forms of entertainment. What makes this art form so enduring and appealing?

In this course we will trace the development of musical theater as a performing art form, primarily in America. By focusing on specific musicals which students examine through writing and presenting in class, we will look at musical theater from socio-cultural, political, and historical, perspectives. We will address such topics as the impact of COVID-19 on the musical theater, examine the role social media and various streaming services play determining the success of a particular musical, and look at how Broadway goes about the business of casting. We will also trace how various musical styles from jazz to rock and hip-hop have been incorporated into the musical. This course is about developing a greater appreciation for the relationships between different elements of musical theater such as music, drama, dance, and stage design. It is also about actively watching, listening, and learning to communicate and articulate one’s thoughts and impressions creatively, in writing. We will have a live Q&A session, tentatively scheduled for January 22, 2023, with performers from San Francisco Playhouse.

Instructor(s): Helena Michelson
Email: hm4@stmarys-ca.edu

Prerequisites & Notes
Prerequisites: None
Course Fee: 25

Credits: 1

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