ABSTRACT

Contemporary performing arts are divided into various fields. Today, the most popular field of performing arts would be musical theatre arts. It has been about 10 years since the musical theatre major has become a major field of study at universities in Korea. Currently, about 30 undergraduate programs and 8 graduate programs in Korea offer a musical theatre major, and the number is gradually increasing. During the initial development, the musical theatre major had been established in various forms in accordance with the circumstances of each university, and they have evolved into current forms of departments after undergoing many changes. The beginning stages of the establishment of a musical theatre major in universities can be categorized into three types: 1) developed from theatre and film departments or developed as a branch of music departments and eventually formed as an independent department, 2) developed as one of internal majors within theatre, dance or music departments, and 3) established as an official music theatre department from the very beginning. This study examines the current state of musical theatre major as a brand new field of study from the beginning of its existence to its settlement as an official department or a major at universities in Korea.

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