Open Forum

Anyone done Showboat? What could you tell me about its portrayal of race relationships?

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Scott Hasbrouck
George Washington HS
Denver, CO
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In the original version the "N" word was used quite frequently.
And I have heard interviews of Black opera singers who refuse to sing Old Man River.
Otherwise it's a beautiful show with beautiful music. And then there's that showboat onstage........

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John Perry
Drama Instructor
Atherton High School
Louisville KY
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I recommend you watch the PBS documentary Broadway: The American Musical (http://www.pbs.org/wnet/broadway/) which includes a segment on the significance of Showboat. Think about the story, your audience, and "Why this show right now for this audience?" before deciding.

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Jo Strom Lane
Theatre Teacher and Director
Roosevelt High School
Portland Public Schools
Portland OR
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