Reading homework help.
In a 5+ page paper (12-point font, double-spaced) discuss an aspect of musical theater. POSSIBLE topics to consider:
- Discuss the work of a composer-lyricist (or team). How has their work evolved over time?
- Discuss the career of a famed Broadway performer. What is/ are their standout role(s)? How did their success affect the other parts of their career?
- Discuss a Broadway musical and its revival(s). What changed in the revival(s)? What stayed the same? Which do you think was the most “successful” of the productions and why?
- Analyze 3-5 songs from a musical or a composer/lyricist (or team). What are the most successful aspects of these works and the least? Why?
- Consider and discuss the issue of race in the history of musical theater. Possible topics could include: how have productions evolved in terms of (a) dealing with issues of race and/or (b) casting people of color? What is “color-blind casting” and is it effective?
Check out this recent article on Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South
Pacific: https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2018/02/rodgers-hammerstein-michener-south-pacific
- Analyze the libretto or book of a musical. How would you critique the lyrics? How would you critique the storyline? Character arcs? Could you suggest any specific changes?
- Discuss a decade in musical theater history (or a shorter period). Was it a particularly exciting and/or fertile time for new musicals? Why or why not?