What do you think of when you hear the term “musical theatre”? Jazz hands, box steps, and chorus lines? Or do you see images of protest, productions directly ripped from the headlines reflecting gang violence and war, or musicals that expose the plight of historically marginalized and oppressed people groups? The images that come to mind are often contrary to the deep social, political, philosophical, ethical and historical roots that have established most of musical theatre for its history. Certainly, musical theatre has entertained countless audience members for decades through innovative and exciting choreography, music and dialogue. But this class will explore the ways in which it has adapted and changed according to our political and social milieu, and the ways in which it has commented on, critiqued and shaped that very dialogue. Students will view and analyze—through in-depth discussion, writing, and creative proposals—the ways musical theatre has changed since its inception, looking at both the aesthetic innovations and sociopolitical commentary imbedded within each musical we view. In our readings, dialogue and written responses, students will take part in considering musical theatre through multiple theoretical lenses, from postcolonialism to gender/queer studies, Marxism to deconstruction, and others. By the end of the semester, students will have a deeper understanding—and, hopefully, appreciation—for the ways that musical theatre has not only commented on and reflected the times in which it was created, but how it has also contributed to shaping the very development of our cultural history.