Discussion topic

Consider Dr. Nathans’s remarks and questions about musical theatre. Use her questions to formulate a discussion post that meets the criteria (a little further) below:

From The Beggars Opera to Avenue Q., musicals have commented on social issues for as long as there has been musical theater in America.

People have always gone to the theater expecting to be entertained. What do you find interesting about theater that talks about social and political issues as entertainment? Why do you think we have such a long history of doing this? How does this relate to our First Amendment right of freedom of speech?

Can you think of a subject matter that has not yet been addressed by musical theater that now could be? Do you think there is a subject that might still present challenges as a tale for a musical venue or that would still be considered taboo for musical theater? How do you think we benefit by examining difficult subjects such as race through the lens of story, song, and dance?

Sources: There are four short audio, at a minimum, read and listen to the following two sections or more so you can cover the material needed for the discussion post.

• History of American Musical Theatre (~7 mins)
• Social Commentary and Musical Theatre (~6 mins)

https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/resources-for-educators/classroom-resources/media-and-interactives/media/theater/musical-theater-in-america/

Additional sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64m1NM2AKL4&t=1s

Not exceed 275 words

Dont need to add advanced vocab; its just a discussion, and make sure the grammar is free of errors.