Public Talks Peek inside Broadway Musical “In the Heights”

Speakers from Princeton University and Elon University will take audiences inside the popular musical in series of short pre-performance talks.

Performance scholar Dr. Brian Herrera of Princeton University will speak on “In the Heights” on February 13. Photo by Kip Malone
Performance scholar Dr. Brian Herrera of Princeton University will speak on “In the Heights” on February 13. Photo by Kip Malone[/caption]Learn about the history, poetry, music, and creativity behind In the Heights and the Department of Performing Arts’ production of the Broadway musical in the “Talk on the Steps” series of public pre-performance lectures, February 12-15 at McCrary Theatre. Each “Talk on the Steps” offers fascinating insight into the musical and performance from a distinct point of view. Speakers will include:

February 12 @7pm: Dr. Brian Herrera of Princeton University will speak on Latina/o representation in Broadway musicals

February 13 @7pm: Steven Lessner of Elon’s English Department will speak on hip-hop narratives as modes of expression for under-represented groups

February 15 @1:30pm: Allison Pichowicz, Elon student, will speak on her dramaturgical research into the Washington Heights neighborhood in New York

In the Heights by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes explores the hopes and dreams of the Washington Heights community with a fusion of Broadway, hip hop, and Latin music styles. The Elon production is directed by Lynne Kurdziel Formato with musical direction by Rick Church.

Talks take place at in the McCrary Theatre lobby in the Center for the Arts. Talks are free and open to the public, and last ten minutes.