Multiply $290 by the 52 weeks in a year, and the gross yearly income for a minimum wage worker is $15,080. It went on to be one of the most successful and beloved musicals in history. This one has a lot of messagesjust so many (too many?) The song describes black victims of lynchings as strange fruit hanging from the trees. I might be a little biased since this is my sign, but come on, it's Beyonce. I prepare you to fight or flee. Social issues arent the impossible issues to deal with. How do you think this happens? What do you think inspired its creators at that particular moment in time to shift away from the old style of theater without making a complete break from the past? We follow the stories of Coalhouse and Sarah, an African-American couple who yearn to give their child the same opportunities that any white child would have; a Latvian immigrant called Tateh who wants the same thing for his daughter; and Mother, the white wife of a wealthy man who helps Sarah with her child and falls in love with Tateh, leaving her close-minded husband in the process. How do you think adding the element of music and dance to a play affects the creative process? While we face the last couple of weeks of winter there are many things you need to do. The early days of the HIV-AIDS crisis in 1980s New York City is the focus of this searing HBO Films drama. People have always gone to the theater expecting to be entertained. Temple Grandin shows us that no matter what obstacles or hardships we face in life, we can still achieve both greatness and happiness through perseverance and dedication. Elvis Presley! She has been an advocate and fighter for womans rights from a very young age, despite the adversity she has been confronted with. The famous love triangle saga of King Arthur, his queen Guinevere, and his best friend Sir Lancelot has a lot to teach us. The whole show is sort of about people not communicating and giving full information to teenagers, but communication is a hot button topic. The first song Anybody Have a Map dramatizes the rift between Think about these options: You may want to listen to the lectures as a large group. A Kindle Scribe Review. The church was never meant to be a building or a denomination, it was meant to be a family. Pipeline comments on America's broken system, mainly in regards to the racial and economic disparities in the education system. Pause the audio track now and then to sum up what you have learned or playback a segment to stop and think about what it means to you. The Color Purple: Based on Alice Walkers bestselling novel of the same name, this musical has won multiple Tony Awards and is an example of how passion and determination can help a person achieve his or her goals. Dr. Alisa Hurwitz is a clinical psychologist and writer. We're taught these prejudices. Motormouth helps Tracy and her house-bound mother, Edna, learn something about self-respect and self-esteem. The show, based on a cult favorite 1988 John Waters film, focuses on an overweight high school girl who uses her special brand of sunny optimism to break down barriers of acceptance and help end segregation on the daily dance show she longs to be part of. Two Trains Running: This play discusses the racial problems that erupted in the 1960s. be more chill is a good one when it comes to anxiety. Arthur wants to scorn his wife for having an affair with his best friend, but it's complicated because they all truly love each other and he maturely asks the question "Can passions be selected?" The two innocent young lovers are so happy together until they begin to grow up and grow apart: Matt goes off to war and Luisa travels the world and when they come back home broken and battered by the world, they find each other again and this time, their love is real. Few musicals deal with mental illness as frankly and honestly as Next to Normal. While much of the focus is on the mother and her struggle with extreme mental illness, it is also about how that touches and changes both her husband and her daughter. As a child I didn't know what it meant, but obviously now I do.". In Elaborate Lives, she and her lover ( Adam Pascal) wrestle with the ways of the world and try to find solace face to face. The play is divided into the 15 minute quarters of a football game, and features full choreography, a drum line, and a halftime show. And whose story has unsettling parallels to Anna's. Whether we agree with it or not, people stay with husbands who abuse them. Rihanna! From The Beggars Opera to Avenue Q., musicals have commented on social issues for as long as there has been musical theater in This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator. While whites in the jazz music industry got rich, black musicians did not reap equal benefits. The world is full of danger Before you get started, think of what you already know about musical theater. Large group - as a group the class would create one musical. If you were to tell the story of the history of American musical theater as a musical play, how would you go about it? Pisces are so talented they don't even need a last name. Brittany Morgan, National Writer's Society2. It operates independently with the writers collaboratively building and maintaining the platform. Adapted from Larry Kramer's Tony-winning play, the film provides an unflinching look at the nation's sexual politics as gay activists and their allies in the medical community fight to expose the truth about the burgeoning epidemic to a city and nation in denial. The resulting project culminated in the initial performance of The Laramie Project,as an effort to help the community heal and reflect. This musical tackles discrimination, sexual abuse, and racism. Lise Meitner was an Austrian physicist who, alongside chemist Otto Hahn, discovered Nuclear fission. I wish you the happiest of birthdays and just know that I will be here to celebrate each year with you forever and ever. ", "He's sick from malaria and in a tripping kind of state of mind," said Andrew Festa, who plays the role at Asolo Rep. "And when Emil asks him why all Americans are that way, he just explodes. Give us more to see. What are some subjects that you think you could turn into a story for musical theater? After a spinal cord injury, a star football player struggles to move forward with his life. She becomes friendly with some fellow African-American students who are reduced to dancing on Corny's once-a-month "Negro Day" segment. Powerful stuff (especially for the very first musical). Anna tries to ignore whats happening by immersing herself in learning about Maggie, a local woman accused of witchcraft in the seventeenth century. ), Anyone Can Whistle (Subject to interpreation. Musicals -- United States -- History And Criticism. . The Top Three Musicals About Mental Health, Pursuing Motherhood While Living with Mental Illness, Type 2 Diabetes and Mental Health: Exploring the Connection, Physical and Mental Illness in Children: Both Need to Be Taken Seriously. But will she be able to reach him before a world beyond her control pulls him away? the history and metamorphosis of musical theater, musical theater as a reflection of culture, Disneys contributions to musical theater, an introduction to a musical theater field trip, for a unit on creative writing and storytelling, to find out whats on your students minds. Though life has changed our paths and you go to a different school, we still talk weekly, sometimes daily. Newsies focuses on a group of young people trying to make a difference and fight against big corporations who control everything. Are you surprised by anything she says, does something feel familiar to you or validate your own observations? I'm so proud that you share all of this with me and call me your friend, that you have invited me into your home and introduced me to your incredible boyfriend. The glow of nostalgia allows for a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor combined with poignancy. The following three musicals about mental illness just may help you better understand yourself and others. This play-turned-movie tackles the theme of personal conflict with different storylines for each character such as love, abandonment, and infidelity. It teaches us that "little white lies" are okay, but homosexuality is condemned. We feature the latest research, stories of recovery, ways to end stigma and strategies for living well with mental illness. This musical is about a group of Dominican-Americans living in Washington Heights. Clare Regelbrugge, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Sign in to comment to your favorite stories, participate in your community and interact with your friends. I remember how senior year, you told me you were applying to one of the same schools as me. We had the same, stupid sense of humor and bonded over Spongebob jokes. Sandra Bullock! In telling the story of Seurat's painting of his most famous work, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" Sondheim and Lapine hit on what it means to be an artist and to leave a legacy. The stories are actually a lot closer to the Grimm Brothers fairy tales rather than the Disney-fied versions. A Raisin in the Sun: The play describes how classism and struggle within a family can affect the dynamics of relationships between its members. Marilyn Monroe! Lastly, the best part is the toppings. How do you think Disney got the idea to do this? , Norm Lewis as Prof. Harold Hill and the children of River City in The Music Man. (Jeremy Daniel). In 2017, truth wasnt just stranger than fiction; it was defined in sometimes conflicting terms. But within the family things get complicated. From minstrel shows and Vaudeville to the modern stage, a look at the trends and ideas that shaped American Musical theater. You're like the big sister I always wanted, but more importantly, you're my best friend. When reading the above quote, no one other than the speaker herself comes to mind. These plays look at social justice issues from various viewpoints. You might have been counting down the days until spring, but make the most of these chilly and cloudy days. It highlights issues such as immigration, biculturalism, and classism. The early forms of theater in America which led to the birth of the musical incorporated popular songs that were easy to sing and that didnt necessarily help tell the plot of the story. We're practically family at this point. I've known you for 7, almost 8 years now and with each passing year I am more and more grateful to call you my best friend. If you think I'm wrong, then you're probably a Taurus (did I do that right?). , The Sound of Music would be another example that deals with Nazism. Why do you think Disney went back to Broadway with their musical know how? This play is an example of how perseverance coupled with optimism can eventually lead to success. Kahlos life was very much colored with pain ranging from her contraction of polio at age six, growing up during the Mexican Revolution, a traumatic bus accident, her tumultuous marriage to artist Diego Rivera and several miscarriages. For Colored Girls: This play-turned-movie tackles the theme of personal conflict with different storylines for each character such as love, abandonment, and infidelity. It is Ruggiero's third production in the last couple of years, including one at the MUNY Theatre in St. Louis with roughly 5,000 seats. Just about everything is interesting if you get interested in it. Even though winter is ending soon, it does not mean the cold is. That show takes place during the rise of Nazi power. Consider how many more professionals need to collaborate to create a musical than a simple dramatic play, and the special skills required by the performers. It's a powerful call to action, reminding readers of the implications of sexism and the role we can each play in ending it. The role was created by Water's regular Divine in the original film and was played by Harvey Fierstein on Broadway and John Travolta in the musical film. (We're talking before "Hamilton"obviously Hamilton counts for this, but you already know that one) So I've compiled a list of 10 of the best and most profound, thought-provoking musicals from the Golden Age of Musical Theater up until the 21st century. Why do you think this change happened? This play follows Jane, whose depression is an actual character in the show aptly named Depression. What does it really take to become a professional singer? Its set in Berlin during the rise of the Nazi party and it also deals with love and abortion (all though abortion comes into play during the very end). After publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys' expense, Kelly and his fellow newsies take action. All are ideal for contest or other dramatic presentations. Her bravery and determination makes her a role model for every woman. Social Issues This is the complete list of articles we have written about social issues. Society tells us that it is more acceptable to be drunk every weekend than cheat on spouses. Her disability caused strife even within her own family; her mother and father divorced when she was 15 largely because of the stresses of raising Temple. Can you imagine a way to repackage that same kind of entertainment to a different audience, say your grandparents or the military or factory workers? The musical also examines the impact mental health conditions can have on families. These pieces may not be performed for the public, but are never the less healing and necessary pieces of art. Allegiance is a musical that is set during the Japanese American internment of World War II, was inspired by the personal experiences of George Takei, who stars in the musical. Is it even possible to not like her? I don't know about you, but I am ready to see a less rigid church, and a more loving church, a more loving body of Christ, instead. And then, through an incredible teacher, I was introduced to you. Were Disneys musicals immediately welcomed by audiences or do you think they took some getting used to? From tent cities to a garbage dump and toxic oil spills, three survivors of targeted violence work with a human rights lawyer search for hope in the in-between places. She had a difficult childhood rattled with extreme poverty and racism. In and the dark depressing nights.. Miley Cyrus! She was also ridiculed and harassed by her school mates in high school because of her differences. The musical characterised several individuals who were based on real people and situations that were occurring in the 90s. But did you know that there have been musicals with real social and political consciences, some of which have caused controversy and have had revolutionary consequences? In verse 7, He declared "Let he who is without sin, cast the first stone.". Rob Ruggiero, who staged last season's "South Pacific," is directing a production that features an all-new orchestration for eight instruments, which he says "is not a reduction, but a reconsideration of the music that suits this." The theater is a perfect venue for social commentary and many playwrights have used their position to share their beliefs on various issues affecting their time. Judgement. Hello, there! First produced in 1975, For Colored Girls is a series of choreopoems, monologues set to music and dance, about the issues that African American women face. This play Looking back at the history of musical theater in America, there was a period of relative stability followed by some pivotal points of change in the way musicals were presented. A revered actress on the boat, Julie, is arrested for misogyny when she is found out to be half black and married to a white man. How might that have had anything to do with this change? Nellie, a U.S. Navy nurse, falls in love with a middle-aged French planter, Emile, who calls the island home.When she finds out that he is the father of two mixed-race children, she doesn't take it well. Take a look at how the Bollywood musical reflects and influences an international audience. i need some help guys i need to think of some musicals that deal with relevant issues rn like mental health and social issues, i already put down DEH because of the whole connor murphy suicide and Evans anxiey but apart fron that im kind of at a loss, Next to Normal (bipolar disorder), Fun Home (LBGT, suicide), Spring Awakening (suicide and sexuality), spring awakening deals with suicide, mental illness, teen sexuality, rape, and abortion. We grow up in a culture that tells us not to associate with others because of their certain sins. Once he has fallen in love with Fosca against his will, Giorgio says to Clara: "You think that this is love?Love isn't so convenient.Love isn't something scheduled in advance,Not something guaranteed you needFor fear it may pass you by.You have to take a chance,You can't just try it out.What's love unless it's unconditional? WebTackling Social Justice Issues Through Musical Theater February 1, 2017 P.K. We are all sinners, every single one of us. Technician/s designs any needed technical support i.e. The iconic Chanel logo however would not be possible without its even more iconic founder Coco Chanel. I remember when we both received acceptance letters to Notre Dame of Maryland University and swore we'd stay best friends through college. It centers around a young woman named Clara who as her mother puts it is not what she seems. Deaf West has the added issue of communication barriers between ASL and English. The tension continues to rise as more secrets are revealed, disclosing the damage underneath. This is clearly the best one. God does not see our sins as buildings from the perspective of being on the ground; this would mean He sees sins as bigger or smaller than other sins. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. When Walt Disney began making movies, that technology was in its infancy. There he falls in love with his Colonel's cousin, the sickly and ugly Fosca. Kinky Boots: Kinky Boots, a Broadway musical, teaches viewers to be compassionate and understanding of people with whom they might not usually identify. Think about the long history of Disney; starting out in the animated cartoon business, then making feature length musicals, and then Broadway bound for spectacular productions. This musical is about an anxious teenager who lies to a mourning family out of fear, convenience and a desire to feel like he belongs. Jeremy faces anxiety everyday and overthinks every single decision he makes. All rights reserved. I know Twitter just discovered her because of 'Bird Box,' but she has a million other movies that are just as amazing (you're one step closer to being Miss Congeniality). Like ancient theatre, contemporary theatre can take us to faraway places, bring on laughter or tears, and can ask the big questions. She was also featured on the covers of countless magazines and still is seen on present day fashion blogs. And you don't have to settle for regular milk! She practices at The Counseling Center of Nashua in southern New Hampshire and maintains a blog and interview site that focuses on the intersection of theater and psychology. Joe swoons about how Liat is "Younger Than Springtime," but when the fantasy of a life together hits the reality of his returning home, he realizes he could not bring this beautiful woman to meet his all-American family. WebAgain this social effect of jazz was a result of greed by whites, and it created anger, fear and resentment among black jazz musicians. Soon, weekends can be filled with park trips and beach adventures, but for now, the weather is temperamental, so a movie night can suffice. Why have musicals (singing/dancing) often been considered purely in the light of entertainment and lightheartedness? "The Fantasticks", by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, is the worlds longest running musical and heres why: it is an endearing, allegorical story with themes and characters which people of all ages can relate to. Here are five examples of theater that make strong statements about history, present times, or both: 1. American Son: The film, American Son, tackles racism, racial profiling, and police brutality. Our mindset of the church has been split into different denominations, different ways of going about things. Audrey Hepburn was a true Renaissance woman. Yikes! What can studying the history of musical theater reveal about our society that say the history of politics or science or legislation might not tell us? During this time the creative energy behind the musical was spent on creating extravagant special effects. While "South Pacific" was of its time, "Hairspray" looks back at a period 40 years before it was written, before the Civil Rights Act and other laws were passed that would forever change race relations in the United States. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. The idea, supported by the Rodgers and Hammerstein organization, is to create a new version that could become a new standard for smaller professional theaters. As your best friend. Social issues can be curbed and people can have a quality life by being aware of their surroundings, helping the underprivileged, and creating social media campaigns. Theatre as a living art form is constantly adapting, to provide commentary on current events and society. In the process, it made Diahann Carroll a star, and Alvin Ailey, Carmen de Lavallade, Arthur Mitchell, Geoffrey Holder, Donald McKayle and Frederick O'Neal were in the cast. She helps bring people together because she just wants her dream and is so accepting of everyone that you have to root for her to do what she wants to do. The following are trademarks of NAMI: NAMI, NAMI Basics, NAMI Connection, NAMI Ending the Silence, NAMI FaithNet, NAMI Family & Friends, NAMI Family Support Group, NAMI Family-to-Family, NAMI Grading the States, NAMI Hearts & Minds, NAMI Homefront, NAMI HelpLine, NAMI In Our Own Voice, NAMI On Campus, NAMI Parents & Teachers as Allies, NAMI Peer-to-Peer, NAMI Provider, NAMI Smarts for Advocacy, Act4MentalHealth, Vote4MentalHealth, NAMIWalks and National Alliance on Mental Illness. Judgement passed on them for their current, or even past sins. You can also talk about how Michael has a panic attack. The play shows the lives of troubled youth as they navigate the difficulties of poverty and racism. Tender yet volatile, Luz attempts to find the meeting place of corporate law practice and humanity. The other is Florida Studio Theatre's season-opening production of the 2002 Tony Award-winning hit "Hairspray," a campy and slightly nostalgic look at life in Baltimore in the early 1960s. Im your protection.. Adapted from an Italian film by Ettore Scola called "Passione d'Amore" and the novel which that was adapted from called "Fosca", "Passion" tells the story of a soldier (Giorgio) who leaves his beautiful mistress/love (Clara) to go to the front. Though we technically met in Kindergarten, we officially met at freshman orientation in high school. The most famous version is performed by Billie Holiday. All rights reserved. Ragtime makes light of many issues including racism, injustice, and social mobility. Throughout the musical, psychotherapy, medication, depression, anxiety and suicide are all directly confronted. We sat at the same lunch table for four years. Below you will find my list of the top ten musicals (in no particular order) that explore mental health head-on. That is evident with the two major productions that open next weekend in Sarasota, two popular shows that deal, in vastly different ways, with racism. Angels in America discusses the many social issues that America faces during the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. Arlington, VA 22203, NAMI Required Disclosures For Written Solicitations.