This course will connect students to both historical and cultural aspects of American Theatre. Students will explore the history of theater in the United States from colonial times to the present and will learn about significant events such as the Astor Place Riot of 1849, the sale of Babe Ruth to help pay for a theatrical production, union strikes, and the development of Broadway as the theatrical capital of the world. Important plays and musicals, as well as specific playwrights, producers, directors, and actors who contributed to America’s theatrical identity will be reviewed. The social, political, and economic climate of the United States during various time periods will be woven into the history. A wide range of social issues and concepts connecting attitudes, values, and beliefs will be explored, along with the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the American theatrical arena. American theatre’s impact on social change will be investigated. (This course will satisfy a Behavioral/Social Science elective.)