2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
PECI1240 Introduction to Musical Theatre
20 creditsClass Size: 60
Module manager: Dr Kelli Zezulka
Email: K.L.Zezulka@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
Module replaces
PECI1708This module is approved as a discovery module
Module summary
This module will provide a guide to the history and development of the Hollywood, Broadway and West End musical. Students will listen to and study examples of musicals from a range of twentieth century composers. There will be an exploration of the relationship between cinematic and theatrical narratives and musical structures. Students will consider the impact of economic, political, social and technological factors upon the musical/ film industries. This module will also examine the social/political propaganda in the musical, narratives and sub-texts, 'dream sequences', the 'exotic musical', non-mainstream musicals and recent trends of the musical, the ‘mega musical’, ‘juke-box musical’, etc.Objectives
On completion of this module, students should be able to: * Understand the historical development of the musical * Explore the relationship of song and dance as performative gestures * Study the complexities and hidden narratives of the genreLearning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Understand and be able to utilise the basic vocabularies of the form appropriately
2. Recognise the structural conventions of a range of examples of the genre
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between the music and the dramatic components of the genre
4. Explain key socio-political contextual themes within their analysis(es).
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Demonstrate the ability to apply genre-specific terminology appropriately in written and verbal communication, facilitating clear and accurate expression within the field.
6. Demonstrate proficiency in explaining how musical elements enhance and interact with the narrative aspects, contributing to the overall impact of musical theatre.
7. Contextualize socio-political factors within analyses, showcasing a nuanced understanding of how broader themes influence and intersect with the genre.
8. Acquire and demonstrate proficiency in effective presentational skills.
Syllabus
Indicative Themes and Structure: - Introduction to the Musical (Functions, audiences and context) - Narratives and Sub-texts (American in Paris/South Pacific) - The ‘modern’ musical: cultural fusion (West Side Story) - Behind the ‘scenes’ (Singin’ in the Rain) - Representation and Authenticity (Cabaret) - Myth and adaptation; stage to Hollywood. (La Bohème to Moulin Rouge) - The Rise of the Rock Musical. (Lloyd Webber – Superstar) - British Musicals Billy Elliot/Matilda - American musicals (Across the universe / The Spider Man)
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Lectures | 10 | 2.00 | 20.00 |
| presentation | 1 | 4.00 | 4.00 |
| Private study hours | 176.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 24.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200.00 | ||
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
The two hour lecture/seminar includes small group activities, with formative feedback from teaching staff, to supporting learning and assessment. Students are further regularly reminded to make use of staff office hours.Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Essay | 1,500 word essay | 70.00 |
| Presentation | 15 minute group presentation | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 09/10/2024
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