History of Musical Theater

This course gives students the opportunity to evaluate, examine, and compare the evolution of the American musical from origins (operetta, minstrel shows, vaudeville, Tin Pan Alley) to Golden Age musicals to contemporary musicals. Students will examine major composers, lyricists, librettists, producers, directors, choreographers, and performing artists who contributed to the development of the musical through readings, audio and video recordings, and discussions.