Revue-ing the situation

Using the Performing Arts for Social Commentary. A Newington Elective.

Course Description

This course will be taught collaboratively by staff from the Music and Drama Departments.

Without the arts, the crudeness of reality would make the world unbearable – George Bernard Shaw

The performing arts have always pushed the boundaries when it comes to social commentary and cultural change. Drama and Music afford us the opportunity to explore and unpack controversial issues in sensitive and powerful ways.

Developing skills in improvisation, both musical and dramatic, and investigating existing practitioners from Gilbert and Sullivan to Tim Minchin students will follow in the footsteps of those performing artists who challenged and shifted the undercurrents of their own society.

At the conclusion of this course, students will develop, create and perform a revue style show that includes original song, sketch comedy and biting social commentary to explore our current world in a satirical light.

Areas of study

  • Improvisation
  • Show Study
  • The Project: Arts Revue

Modes of Assessment

  • Group Work
  • Peer Review
  • Independent Inquiry

Links to the Broader Curriculum

  • Ethics – ethics of comedy
  • Political Studies – current affairs
  • Civics History and Social Justice
  • Music / Drama

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