INQ-277 | Social Justice and Broadway Musicals

Topic Description:

Broadway theatre continues to play a vital role in advocating for social justice and inspiring positive change in society. Broadway acts as a catalyst for social change by shedding light on pressing issues such as racial inequality, LGBTQ+ violence, and gender discrimination. When art meets activism, stories for the stage challenge societal norms and inspire empathy, fostering a sense of unity among audiences. In this class we examine social movement rhetoric in both historical and contemporary Broadway productions through scholarship, musical cast recordings, film adaptations of plays and musicals, as well as a field trip to New York City. We will think critically about the economy of Broadway, casting decisions, narratives, scripts, music, and what these stories teach us about American politics.

Course Types Offered: Field Trip

Topic Approved: October 2023