Description
Book SynopsisWhile most discussions of race in American theater emphasize the representation of race mainly in terms of character, plot, and action,
Race in American Musical Theater highlights elements of theatrical production and reception that are particular to musical theater. Examining how race functions through the recurrence of particular racial stereotypes and storylines, this introductory volume also looks at casting practices, the history of the chorus line, and the popularity of recent shows such as
Hamilton. Moving from key examples such as
Show Boat! and
South Pacific through to all-Black musicals such as
Dreamgirls, Bring in da Noise, Bring in da Funk, and
Jelly's Last Jam, this concise study serves as a critical survey of how race is presented in the American musical theater canon.Providing readers with historical background, a range of case studies and models of critical analysis, this foundational book prompts questions from how stereotypes
Table of ContentsIntroduction - American Musical Theater and Its Discontents Chapter 1 - Racial Stereotypes, Major to Minor Chapter 2 - Beyond the Great White Way: Racial Progress and Black Musical Theater Chapter 3 - We Could Make Believe: Liberal Limitations and the American Musical Chapter 4 - Dance Ten, Looks Three: The Chorus Line and the Color Line Chapter 5 - Who Tells Your Story? Race, Immigration, and the American Dream
