COURSE DESCRIPTION

THR 121 Musical Theatre

This is the first semester of a two-semester course. The purpose of this course is to assist the student in gaining an understanding of the “triple threat” skills (acting, singing, dancing) necessary to develop individual uniqueness as a musical theatre artist. The course will include a study of the origins and history of musical theatre, major contributors and analysis of the basic elements of this genre. At the conclusion of this course students will be prepared for THR 112Musical Theatre Workshop. 3cr.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the completion of this course students be able to:

Define the forms of Musical Theatre.
Execute direction given in stage terms.
Perform in a collaborative environment.
Develop an aesthetic appreciation of Musical Theatre as a cultural art form.
Discuss revolutionary work within the Musical Theatre genre.
Discuss Musical Performance as an audience member.
Execute a successful Musical Theatre audition.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS

There are no textbooks required for this class; however, you will be required to secure materials for your Musical Theatre presentation and individual assignments some material is available through the college library.

MUSICAL CRITIQUE PAPER

You are required to attend one Musical performance during the semester. Analyze the content, style and impact of the performance.

Identify:

Title of the work

Book Author

Lyrics Author

Music Composer

Where the work was performed

Length of the run

Date of Attendance

Content:

What do you think the primary intention of the writer was?

What was the subject of the work?

How did the music and dance reflect the subject of the work?

Discuss the use of space.

Discuss the passage of time.

Discuss the technical elements (lights, costumes, props, make-up, score). How were they used?

Impact

Discuss how this performance has affected your perspective of Musical Theatre and the personal impact of this performance.

PRESENTATION PROJECT

The Broadway Theatre has produced many groundbreaking musicals over the years. Ten have been identified for study this semester. Each student will choose one of the musicals to discuss with the class. Students will work in small groups for research and presentations. Questions to address include but are not limited to the following.

Title of the work

Book Author

Lyrics Author

Music Composer

Significance of the Work to the Author/Composer’s career

Date of the original run

Names of the original cast, director, conductor

Theatre communities’ reaction to the original run

Difficulties in producing the play

Significant revivals

Subject of the Musical

If possible, share with the class any recording or videos available of the work.

GRADE CALCULATION

Forms quiz 10 pts.

Stage terms quiz 10 pts

Musical Critique Paper 20 pts.

Presentation Project 10 pts.

Movement Analysis 10 pts

Acting the Song 10 pts

Dancing the Song 10 pts

Class Participation 10 pts.

Quiz Major Musicals 10 pts.

Total 100 pts

A 91-100

B+ 89-90

B 81-88

C+ 79-80

C 71-78

D 65-70

F below 65

In addition, THE STUDENT MUST COMPLETE THE ASSIGNMNETS IN ALL REQUIRED CATAGORIES IN ORDER TO RECEIVE A PASSING GRADE.

ATTENDANCE

Records of attendance will be kept. The attendance policy for this class is the policy currently in effect and published by the college.