Module: DRA6006-20 Musicals as Popular Culture

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Miranda Lundskaer-Nielsen

Module Tutor Contact Details: M.Lundskaer-Nielsen@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:   

This module explores the musical as part of our wider culture, looking at common narratives and elements of the art form and the way in which these lend themselves to different cultural readings and interpretations. 

2. Outline syllabus: 

Through a series of themed weeks, we will explore how musicals - and not least musical numbers - can be interpreted through lenses such as gender, race and sexuality to reveal a varied, sometimes contradictory and often subversive set of readings that resonate in different ways for differently positioned audiences. We will consider these in terms of their original performance contexts and also the challenges for today’s practitioners of staging works that were created in times of different social and cultural attitudes.

3. Teaching and Learning: 

The module will be taught through interactive weekly classes, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and sharing of ideas. You will be expected to complete weekly reading and/or viewing tasks and to participate actively in class discussions. The assessments will give you the opportunity to engage in close analysis and research into shows that particularly interest you.

PRACTICAL NOTE: To avoid any confusion, please note that this module does not involve practical performance work. Equally, while prior study of Musical Theatre will be useful, it is not a requirement.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Critical analysis

• % Weighting: 50

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Research assignment

• % Weighting: 50