America with European immigrants and evolved over time to become the unique American form of entertainment known as musical theatre. This student friendly introduction examines the beginnings of musical theatre in the 1800's. The chapters progress chronologically and thematically through the early “gentlemen” composers George M. Cohen, Jerome Kern, and Irving Berlin, the musicals of the Great Depression, and the Golden Age of the musical from 1943 to 1959. The material in the text also explores humor's role in conveying serious ideas, and the advent of the variety show. The book includes quizzes, tests, biographies, and essay assignments, as well as extensive lists of viewing and listening recommendations. A complete curriculum within one text, Musical Theatre is designed for courses in musical theatre or theatre history.Sarah Marschner graduated from the University of Rhode Island and worked on her advanced degree from the University of New Hampshire, Durham, where she is now the master teacher of Theatre and the History of Musical Theatre. In addition to teaching, she is a long-time performer with the Little Red Wagon theatrical group and has written and directed the group’s shows for the past six years. Professor Marschner has also performed with the Hackmatack Summer Theatre, The Lakeside Players, and Arts Rochester. She has developed several children's drama programs and for many years ran the Hackmatack Theatre for Young Audience program."

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