Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of Theatre Arts 1 or equivalent in experience and departmental recommendation. This is an introductory course in musical theatre that focuses on production, performance, musical theatre literature and history. Students will examine the history and evolution of the Broadway musical, one of America`s great indigenous art forms. Students will also compare and evaluate a variety of musicals from the nineteenth century to present day including: Vaudeville, Operetta, Musical Comedy, Opera on Broadway, and Rock Opera. Major figures discussed will include composers, lyricists, producers, directors, choreographers, performers, and conductors. This course also focuses on developing singing/acting/movement skills in a variety of musical theatre performing styles. Note that students can elect to take Theatre Arts 2A or 2B or both in one school year if their schedule permits. Only one course, 2A or 2B, is needed to advance to Theatre Arts 3.