American Musical Theatre

First Published in 1987. Split into four parts, this book seeks to inform the reader, teachers, directors and students about American Musical Theatre. Part I is a brief history of the American Musical Theatre, for it is only in the context of history that the material on which you work can be fully judged and mastered. Part II is a brief discussion of the elements of production. Knowing what ought to take place in a well-planned show can go a long way toward counteracting what does not take place in a poorly planned one. Part III is a brief discussion of how to evaluate the elements of craftmanship one expects to find in the writing and performing of a musical. The knowledge here is indispensable to the performer. It is the feel of the plane to the pilot, the touch of the key to the pianist. It is, in fact, the very life blood of the art form. Finally, Part IV provides an opportunity to put into practice what previous study has taught.

Part I A Brief History o f the American Musical A . Foundations and Beginnings B . The Age of Operetta C . The Age of Development D . The Golden Age .E. Years of Decline, Part II The Elements of Production A . Preliminary Planning B . The Production Calendar. Part III The Elements of Craftmanship: Evaluating a Musical Introductory Remarks A . Evaluating Directorial Judgments B . Evaluating Musical Performance C . Evaluating Dramatic Performance D . Evaluating Choreographic Concept and Performance . E . Evaluating Theatrical Technology F . Evaluating Wardrobe and Make-Up. G . Evaluating the Quality of the Writing Part IV Trying Your Hand, Introductory Remarks.A . The Differences Between Media B . Elements of Media Conversion.C . An Example D . Suggested Assignments