Abstract

This thesis examined the modern renaissance man and his relationship between musical theatre history and parody; it examined how the modern artist created, produced, and facilitated an original parody in which humor can both influence and enhance an individual's interest in the art form. In the creation and production of The Complete Works of Stephen Sondheim [abridged], I showcased factual insight on one of the most prolific writers of musical theatre and infused it with comedy in order to educate and create appeal for Stephen Sondheim's works, especially those lesser known, to a wider theatrical audience. My two greatest research methods were as follows: (1) historical research of Stephen Sondheim's personal life, as well as his completed scores as composer, lyricist, or both which, along with my co-writers, culminated into a written theatrical piece and (2) the production of said written piece for audiences. Most of my information had been collected from published scripts and scores, biographies, non-fiction books and articles detailing production history, and filmed archival footage of the works of Stephen Sondheim. This thesis confronted the issue that comedy often lacks educational merit and proves that proper research can be synthesized into a product that is both palatable and memorable for audiences. It is this author's contention that enlightening individuals on the works of Stephen Sondheim through a parody, differing from the typical styles, mainly revue and cabaret, that often examine his career will provide the most satisfying mixture of education and humor.

Notes

If this is your thesis or dissertation, and want to learn how to access it or for more information about readership statistics, contact us at STARS@ucf.edu

Graduation Date

2020

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Weaver, Earl

Degree

Master of Arts (M.A.)

College

College of Arts and Humanities

Department

Theatre

Degree Program

Theatre

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0008023; DP0023163

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0023163

Language

English

Release Date

5-15-2021

Length of Campus-only Access

1 year

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

Download

Share

COinS