AMS 1949 - MUSICAL THEATRE HISTORY

credits: 3.0
Crosslisted/Same As: MUS 1949
AMS 1949-MUS 1949. Will introduce students to the origins of the American musical as well as its historical development to present times. Additionally, students will encounter the structural elements necessary in creating a musical, not only to heighten their appreciation but also to develop their critical-analytical skills. Objectives: A) To explore the history and progression of American Musical Theatre, from the late 1800’s until present day; B) Recognize production elements within Musical Theatre (Music, Lyrics, Book, Score, Direction, Dance, Concepts, and Design); C) Identify political, economic, and technological influences on Musical Theatre throughout the history of the art form; D) Recognize the defining characteristics of Musical Theatre genres, including styles, composers, artists and figures instrumental to its progression; E) Identify song types within a musical, and to gain understanding of the elements that constitute a successful musical; F) To recognize a wide variety of Musical Theatre songs and shows. Method of Instruction: Lecture; discussion; media share (digital video or other); and audio samples. Method of Evaluation: Class participation; reading (with accompanying discussion boards and/or quiz); research project/presentation (individual and small group, depending on size of enrollment); production review paper (informed by live attendance at a local musical or assigned live-filmed version if in-person attendance is not available). Meets *WEP Distribution Requirement.