Presentations
Location
Sydnor Performance Hall
Access Type
Campus Access Only
Entry Number
106
Start Date
4-4-2018 1:15 PM
Department
Music
Abstract
Eastern Theatre Influences on the Broadway Musical The Lion King
Although the origins of both Eastern and Western Theatre are vastly different, both art forms share common musical characteristics. With the intent of improving music pedagogy and performance, the purpose of this research was to investigate the development of theatre on the ‘Eastern’ stage. The specific problems of this project were to: (1) trace the development of Eastern Theatre, (2) compare and contrast practices in Eastern Theatre with those on Broadway (Western Theatre), and (3) to distinguish the Eastern and Western elements in the Broadway production of the Lion King.
The origins of Eastern Theatre, traced to religious ceremonies circa 2205-1766 B.C.E, began in the dance tradition and developed in different directions depending on locations and area-based traditions. The expression of this art form evolved in a manner that made it more visual and sensual rather than based on literary works. While the Lion King and its plot had been steeped in literature, common in Western practices, the masks, puppetry, and symbolism with reference to ceremonial prevalence prove to be Eastern concepts. The traditions and relevance of Eastern theatre continues in modern drama and media. It would be worth considering other examples and regional differences in the East.
Faculty Mentor(s)
Cynthia Ramsey
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Eastern Theatre Influences on the Broadway Musical The Lion King
Sydnor Performance Hall
Eastern Theatre Influences on the Broadway Musical The Lion King
Although the origins of both Eastern and Western Theatre are vastly different, both art forms share common musical characteristics. With the intent of improving music pedagogy and performance, the purpose of this research was to investigate the development of theatre on the ‘Eastern’ stage. The specific problems of this project were to: (1) trace the development of Eastern Theatre, (2) compare and contrast practices in Eastern Theatre with those on Broadway (Western Theatre), and (3) to distinguish the Eastern and Western elements in the Broadway production of the Lion King.
The origins of Eastern Theatre, traced to religious ceremonies circa 2205-1766 B.C.E, began in the dance tradition and developed in different directions depending on locations and area-based traditions. The expression of this art form evolved in a manner that made it more visual and sensual rather than based on literary works. While the Lion King and its plot had been steeped in literature, common in Western practices, the masks, puppetry, and symbolism with reference to ceremonial prevalence prove to be Eastern concepts. The traditions and relevance of Eastern theatre continues in modern drama and media. It would be worth considering other examples and regional differences in the East.