This course traces the history and trajectories of music theater in the United States from the turn of the twentieth century to the present. From its roots in German operetta, musical revues, and minstrel shows, to the innovative and experimental productions of today, students will explore how opera and musical theater serve as a lens through which a variety of cultural, performative, and historical issues may be examined. The aim of this course is to trace the development of the music drama in terms of its stylistic and compositional influences, characteristics, and goals, and to evaluate its ability to communicate meaning through music, text, and performance. Through watching, listening, critical reading, and discussion, students will examine the historical context of various creators, performers, and listeners of opera. This course fulfills the requirement for Graduate Seminar for MM students