This unit introduces students to the essential elements, history, and career ecosystem of musical theatre, including show structure (overture, acts, intermission), creative and technical roles, rehearsal practices, and theatre spaces. Students will develop foundational performance and production knowledge that builds on prior arts learning and prepares them for deeper study and applied work in subsequent units.
Learning Objectives
- Analyze the structural elements of a musical (e.g., overture, Act One, intermission, lead and featured numbers) and map how each element advances plot, theme, and character development using a selected exemplar
- Evaluate the roles, responsibilities, and collaborative processes of production team members (librettist, composer, casting director, costume designer, stage/backstage crew) by matching duties to real-world production scenarios
- Demonstrate foundational performance and rehearsal skills (basic vocal technique, movement, character work) and backstage etiquette through participation in guided class rehearsals and peer feedback activities
- Apply knowledge of types of musicals, historical developments, and theatre anatomy to compare major world theatre centers with local professional opportunities and propose informed next steps for study or career exploration
Curriculum
- 1 Section
- 21 Lessons
- 30 hours
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- Unit 1 — Foundations of Musical Theatre21
- 1.1“What Is This Thing Called Love*?”20 mins
- 1.2“Let’s Start at the Very Beginning” — Before Show Boat Sailed to Broadway20 mins
- 1.3Act One — Telling the First Part of the Story20 mins
- 1.4Identifying the World Capitals of Theatre20 mins
- 1.5Overture — What Happens before the Curtain Rises20 mins
- 1.6“Mr. Cellophane” — the Librettist20 mins
- 1.7Finding the Talent — The Casting Director20 mins
- 1.8Who Are You Wearing? — Costume Designers20 mins
- 1.9Naming the Leads and Featured Performers in Lights20 mins
- 1.10“Another (Almost) Hundred People” — The Backstage Crew20 mins
- 1.11Finding Inspiration for Musicals20 mins
- 1.12Rehearsal Makes Perfect20 mins
- 1.13Identifying Skills You Need to be Onstage20 mins
- 1.14“My Funny Valentine”20 mins
- 1.15Nancy Walker20 mins
- 1.16Recognizing the Types of Musicals20 mins
- 1.17The Birth of the Musical As It’s Known Today20 mins
- 1.18Intermission! Time to Stand Up and Stretch (or Go to the Restroom)20 mins
- 1.19Introducing the Pros in Your Hometown20 mins
- 1.20Understanding the Inside of a Theatre —Stage and Seating20 mins
- 1.21“I Feel a Song Coming On” — The Composer20 mins
Instructor
Free
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