The American Musical: Radical Acts and Adaptations

(Cross-listed w/ TPS 114 and MUS 20) Exploration of the American musical, most notably the “Broadway musical,” from the early 20th century to the present. Examination of musicals as products of their cultural moments, revealing American attitudes about race, gender, class, and ethnicity. Consideration of the established narratives, limited binaries, and systemic whiteness the American musical has traditionally embodied. Focus on innovative, even revolutionary, musicals and how they have evolved through adaptation and revival. Discussion of the musical as a global phenomenon and the impact of changing media technologies including social media on this dynamic, increasingly intercultural form. No prerequisite. Lower level of dual level course.