This is a history course based on some well-known musicals. Writers of these works often dealt with complex social, political and historical issues while providing an entertaining show with great songs. We'll look at international politics in the musicals Evita, Call Me Madam and Chess; horror stories used as inspiration for musicals, like Rocky Horror Show and Sweeney Todd; musicals based on fairy stories, some subverted to provide unexpected twists, as in Frozen and Into The Woods; and the controversial side of Rodgers and Hammerstein. Plus other quirky musicals, like the Producers, Hello Dolly!, and Paint Your Wagon.
Course aim
How musicals reflect the historical context in which they are written and contain important political and social commentary, sometimes satirically presented. We will concentrate on some of the apparently unlikely subjects chosen for musicals.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- No skills or experience needed
- This course is suitable for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Discuss how Evita and Call Me Madam are influenced by the writers' personal viewpoints of the societies they are describing
- Give examples of how fairy tale conventions are overturned in Frozen and Into The Woods
- Identify some of the classic films, stories and characters that fed into horror musicals like Rocky Horror Show and Sweeney Todd.
- Discuss why "bad taste" is such a prevalent feature of modern musicals, like the Producers and Little Shop of Horrors.
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
What else do I need to know?
- Some method of taking notes
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- Become involved with the WEA in a range of voluntary work and other activities including campaigning as a WEA member
- Become involved as a volunteer for a WEA partner or another organisation
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
Download full course information sheet
