Course Details
952: Dance in Musical Theater
February 4, 6, and 8, 2019
1:45 PM -
3:15 PM
In-Person
We will look at dance scenes in landmark musical films, seeing how the design and significance of dance in these productions evolved. Choreographers discussed will include Fred Astaire, George Balanchine, Michael Bennett, Busby Berkeley, Agnes deMille, Bob Fosse, Hanya Holm, Gene Kelly, Hermes Pan, Jerome Robbins, and others. We will examine the choreographer's trademark style, methods, background, and influence upon the musical theater genre. We will consider the evolving technique, versatility, role, and presentation of the dancers. Although we will view film versions, we will consider connections to prior stage versions of a show when applicable.
Class Type: Appreciation
Class Format: TBA
Hours of Reading: No reading
Study Group Leader(s):
Ilsa BushIlsa Bush studied dance, performed with New England Civic Ballet (predecessor to Boston Ballet), received credentials from American Ballet Theatre’s teacher training program, and taught ballet technique and dance history at DC area universities and studios for over 20 years. She has worked on funding dance record preservation.