School may still be out for summer, but it's the perfect time to plan unforgettable field trips that bring learning to life. What better way to kick off the school year than with an inspiring excursion to Broadway? The dazzling lights, rich storytelling, and unmatched thrill of live theatre offer student groups a chance to experience the world beyond the textbook.
Live theatre is a powerful, immersive art form—where each performance is a one-of-a-kind moment shared between actors and audience. It entertains, educates, and inspires, fostering empathy and expanding perspectives through diverse stories and characters. Whether you're exploring history, literature, or the performing arts, Broadway has something to spark every student's imagination. So grab your planners—Broadway is calling, and class is about to begin!
We’ve put together a little course catalog for a lineup of show-inspired studies that are sure to make learning center stage.
HST 106: SIX - Rewriting Her-story: Queens in Concert
Examine the empowering, sassy, and musical retelling of the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives as they take the stage, each with her own story and style.
In the vibrant musical spectacle SIX, the infamous "divorced, beheaded, died…" mantra has been reshaped and revitalized into a daring pop concert where Henry VIII's queens reclaim their narratives. Each wife steps into the spotlight, ready to share her unique story in a battle of ballads, aiming to win over the audience through song—proving she endured the most traumatic experience at the hands of Henry VIII. As they remix their struggles into fierce and witty performances, each queen fights for the crown of the most wronged. But as the competition heats up, their voices begin to blend, transforming rivalry into solidarity, culminating in unapologetic anthems of sisterhood and self-worth.
This electrifying show cleverly blends five centuries of royal drama with the defiant sounds of today’s pop music, giving historical figures a modern, melodic twist—an Anne Boleyn who sounds like Avril Lavigne, a Catherine of Aragon with Beyoncé vibes. Students are invited to think critically about historical storytelling—who tells the tales and who's left out—in a way that's both engaging and thought-provoking. By the end of the show, you'll find your perception of "divorced, beheaded, died" transformed into a rallying cry for empowerment, as these six women rewrite history with music and might.
AM LIT 120: The Great Gatsby - Jazz Age Dreams: Decoding Daisy and the Green Light
Unpack the symbolism, the glamour, and the profound longing of a bygone era through the lens of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic antihero.
Step into the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties with The Great Gatsby. This adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic dazzles with wild parties, shimmering fashion, and infectious jazz rhythms, while exploring the intriguing lives of unforgettable characters. Students will be drawn to the enigmatic Daisy Buchanan and the mysterious Jay Gatsby, whose pursuit of the American Dream unfolds against an opulent backdrop. Each scene invites young audiences to examine the era’s social dynamics and the moral complexities beneath its glittering surface.
Beyond the captivating performances and toe-tapping tunes, the musical offers a wealth of symbolic exploration. The iconic green light at the end of Daisy’s dock becomes a central point of intrigue, representing Gatsby's unreachable dreams and enduring hope. Students will discover how set design, musical motifs, and character interpretations breathe new life into Fitzgerald’s themes of aspiration and disillusionment. A live performance not only enhances literary analysis skills but also reveals how timeless stories can be reimagined to captivate modern audiences, bringing new meaning to an old classic, old sport!
COMPSCI 2050: Maybe Happy Ending - Tech-Tales: Finding Human Connection in a Robotic World
Unbox a futuristic love story wrapped in technology and explore what it means to love and be human when robots discover emotions.
Set in a future not too far from our own, Maybe Happy Ending is a heartwarming journey through the lives of two obsolete helper-bots navigating love and companionship. Technology meets emotion in this charming tale about what it means to be truly alive, blending humor, tenderness, and a touch of sci-fi wonder. As the bots, Oliver and Claire, embark on their unexpected adventure, students are invited to reflect on themes of connection, identity, and the essence of humanity, all set to a captivating score that amplifies the story’s emotional depth.
For students eager to dive deeper, Maybe Happy Ending offers rich material for discussion. Its futuristic setting and robotic protagonists provide a fresh lens through which to explore emotions, relationships, and the role of technology in modern life. By examining the show’s creative choices—from staging and score to character development—students can consider how it balances whimsy with meaningful philosophical questions. Ultimately, the show provides a unique opportunity for students to ponder the timeless quest for love and belonging in an increasingly digital world, a rumination that will linger far into their futures.
POLISCI 176: Hamilton: Rhyme and Revolution: Founding Fathers Remix
Take a lyrical journey through history with Lin-Manuel Miranda's innovative hip-hop take on America's founding moments, with squabbles, glory, and a beat you can't resist.
History leaps to life through the groundbreaking fusion of hip-hop and musical theatre in Lin-Manuel Miranda's masterpiece Hamilton, transforming the story of America’s Founding Father into a dynamic, rhythm-infused narrative. Through catchy beats and razor-sharp lyrics, the musical delves into the rivalries, triumphs, and trials of Alexander Hamilton and his contemporaries, highlighting the political intrigues and personal dramas that shaped a nation.
Hamilton offers a treasure trove of study topics that spark critical thinking and analysis. Students can delve into how its innovative use of hip-hop and diverse casting reinterprets historical narratives, impacting the portrayal of figures like Hamilton, Jefferson, and Washington. They might also explore themes of ambition, legacy, and the immigrant experience, and how these resonate with today's audiences. By examining the blend of historical fact and artistic interpretation, students gain a nuanced appreciation of how Hamilton bridges past and present, enriching their understanding of history and showcasing storytelling's transformative power in shaping cultural dialogue.
GEOG 143 Hell's Kitchen - Dreams in the City: Navigating New York's Heartbeat
Trek through Alicia Keys’ coming-of-age journey, where memoir, music, and self-discovery unfold in the electric New York City neighborhood where she grew up.
Grammy-winning recording artist Alicia Keys leaves it all on the stage in her Broadway composing debut. Inspired by Alicia Keys’ own upbringing in midtown Manhattan, Hell’s Kitchen follows a young woman determined to make her mark in the vibrant chaos of NYC, where she discovers powerful lessons about resilience, identity, and chasing her dreams. Scored with Alicia Keys’ hits like "Empire State of Mind" and "Girl on Fire" plus new tunes written specifically for the musical, the musical paints a vivid picture of a city where dreams are forged and tested. At its heart, though, is a powerful mother-daughter bond, grounding the story in love, struggle, and the strength it takes to rise.
Hell’s Kitchen offers rich opportunities for thematic and artistic exploration. Students can examine how New York City functions as a character, shaping the protagonist’s journey, and how relationships—both personal and professional—influence the pursuit of dreams. Alicia Keys’ music adds emotional depth and drives the story, amplifying themes of growth and aspiration. These elements spark meaningful discussions about navigating life’s complexities with courage and creativity.
AM LIT 167: The Outsiders - Staying Golden: Lessons from the Edge
Explore the themes of identity, loyalty, and social class conflict, literary deep dive inspired by S.E. Hinton’s gritty classic.
The Outsiders invites audiences into the gritty world of S.E. Hinton’s classic novel, where identity, loyalty, and social class collide. Set in Tulsa in 1967, the story follows Ponyboy Curtis and his fellow “Greasers” as they confront the challenges of growing up on the margins of society, clashing with the wealthier “Socs.” Through dramatic events—including a tragic confrontation that shifts Ponyboy’s perspective—he begins to understand the true meaning of friendship, family, and finding one’s place in a divided world.
For student groups, The Outsiders offers rich opportunities for literary analysis and discussion. Students can examine how social class shapes identity and choices, and explore themes like loyalty, belonging, and the impact of socioeconomic status. Key moments—such as the rumble or Johnny’s act of bravery—spark conversations about morality, empathy, and personal growth. Hinton’s timeless narrative continues to resonate, offering a compelling lens through which to explore both individual and societal struggles.
As you plan your group's next back-to-school adventure into the world of theatre, Broadway Inbound is your go-to resource for everything you need to make the experience seamless and enriching. With group ticketing options, you can easily secure seats for your entire class or club to witness the magic of Broadway. But the experience doesn't stop at the performance. Broadway Inbound also offers a variety of study guides and workshops designed to deepen understanding and spark curiosity. These resources provide valuable insights into the themes, characters, and creative processes behind each production, making them an excellent complement to any educational outing. Whether you're exploring complex social dynamics or revolutionary storytelling, Broadway Inbound ensures that your group not only enjoys a fantastic show but also gains meaningful insights that extend beyond the theatre.