THE
LEARNING CURVE Fall
2008
Art History, Archaeology, Astronomy, History, Literature, Philosophy, Music
Magical Musicals
“Open a new window; open a new door; travel a new highway”, with actress, director, teacher, and lifelong devotee of musical theatre, Dr. Judith Rodman, as she explores elements of successful (on and off) Broadway musicals. Discover the historical background of such classics as Jerome Kern’s “Showboat” and Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma” and “Carousel” and examine the ingredients that create exciting, memorable, timeless, and Magical Musicals.
Week 1: “The Evolution of the American Musical”
Originally influenced by the cardboard characters and plots of European operettas the sequined splendor of musical revues, American musical theatre gradually began featuring librettos with believable characters, plots, and settings, and musical scores, in which songs and dances grew out of the dialogue and furthered the action. Discover whether there is a recipe for creating a delicious Broadway banquet.
Week 2: The Big Three
“Showboat”, the landmark musical of 1927 linked the past and the future. “Oklahoma”, (1943) which is usually considered the first fully integrated musical, is noteworthy for its innovative dream ballet. “Carousel”, (1945) has enchanting music and an engaging plot. Yet, the hero shows his dark side, has a chance to redeem himself, and reverts to his violent ways.
Week 3: “The (fantastic) Fantasticks”
New York’s longest running musical, opened off-Broadway at the Sullivan Street Playhouse in Greenwich Village on May 3, 1960, and continues to charm audiences, currently playing in New York at the Jerry Orbach Theatre, proving that simplicity may be the secret to creating an enduring theatrical treasure
Note: This class will be continued in the winter/spring semester featuring shows by other Broadway legends such as Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Lerner and Lowe and Frank Lesser.
When: Wednesdays, Nov 5 - Nov 19, 1:30-3:30pm
Where: The Windmill Inn, 4250 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $65 (3 sessions)
Instructor:
Judith Rodman, Ph.D., is an actress, director, and teacher. Her educational credits include: Bachelor of Arts, English and Drama; Master of Arts, Speech and the Performing Arts; Master of Science, Clinical Counseling/Human Services; Ph.D., Psychology. Dr. Rodman has performed and directed plays and musicals for over 30 years. While serving as a college faculty member in the Chicago area, Dr. Rodman received the Teacher of the Year Award for Excellence” and lectured with Oasis of Chicago and the North Shore Senior Center.
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