Theatre Unmasked: The Hidden History of Stage, Scandal, and Spectacle

𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐥𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞.

From 𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 to 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐲’𝐬 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬, the 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 has been a battleground for 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦, 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐮𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐥, and jaw-dropping 𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐬. This course pulls back the curtain on the 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 that changed the world, the 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬 who defied the odds, and the 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐞𝐬 that rocked the industry. 

From 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 to 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬, students will debate, analyze, and uncover the 𝐡𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐚 behind theatre’s most unforgettable moments. The show must go on—but what happens 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬 is just as thrilling!

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Learners can drop in any time without feeling lost, as each week features a brand-new topic that's engaging and easy to jump into—no matter how long the class has been running. Every day is a great day to start!
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🌀 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐮𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐩 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞
This course follows a loop schedule, meaning that once we finish covering the material, we start over with a new round of lessons. This allows learners to revisit key concepts and reinforce their understanding, making it perfect for students who need extra practice or want to keep their skills sharp.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭?
The loop format ensures that all learners, whether they join in the middle or complete the cycle, can benefit from continued learning. Each round of lessons is a chance to apply and master the concepts.

𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞
If your learner has already completed the cycle and does not wish to repeat the material, please unenroll them before the next billing cycle begins. No refunds will be provided if a learner accidentally repeats a cycle due to not unenrolling.

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Weekly Breakdown:


Week of July 6 – Theatre’s First Spotlight – We explore the roots of performance through Greek tragedies like Oedipus Rex, and early rituals like Japanese Noh and medieval passion plays.

Week of July 13 – Banned, Burned, and Censored – We dive into banned shows like The Children’s Hour and Hair, and ask how theatre tests boundaries and reacts to criticism.

Week of July 20 – Breaking the Spotlight – We highlight legends like Sarah Bernhardt and Lorraine Hansberry, and see how women have made history both onstage and off.

Week of July 27 – Theatre as Protest – We look at bold productions like Hamilton and Rent to see how the stage brings new ideas and voices into the spotlight.

Week of August 3 – The Curse of Macbeth and Other Theatrical Superstitions – We uncover eerie tales behind the Macbeth curse and haunted theatres like the New Amsterdam and London’s Palace.

Week of August 10 – Vaudeville’s Rise and Fall – We journey through the world of Vaudeville with stars like Buster Keaton and Fanny Brice and explore its lasting impact.

Week of August 17 – Broadway and Theatre Around the World – We compare Broadway with stages around the world, like London’s West End and Japan’s Kabuki, through shows like Les Misérables and The Lion King.

Week of August 24 – Scandals, Riots, and Feuds – We dig into dramatic real-life moments like the Astor Place Riot and backstage conflicts surrounding Spring Awakening.

Week of August 31 – OFF (Fall Break)

Week of September 7 – Stage vs. Screen – Can Film Ever Replace Live Theatre? – We explore the evolution of shows like West Side Story and Hamilton from stage to screen and ask what’s lost or gained.

Week of September 14 – Curtain Call for Tomorrow – We dream big about the future of theatre, from dazzling tech effects to fresh musicals like Hadestown and Six. What could the next show-stopper look like?


🔁 Repeat Loop - remember you can jump in anytime! You do not have to wait for a loop to restart. 

Week of September 21 – Theatre’s First Spotlight – We explore the roots of performance through Greek tragedies like Oedipus Rex, and early rituals like Japanese Noh and medieval passion plays.

Week of September 28 – Banned, Burned, and Censored – We dive into banned shows like The Children’s Hour and Hair, and ask how theatre tests boundaries and reacts to criticism.

Week of October 5 – Breaking the Spotlight – We highlight legends like Sarah Bernhardt and Lorraine Hansberry, and see how women have made history both onstage and off.

Week of October 12 – Theatre as Protest – We look at bold productions like Hamilton and Rent to see how the stage brings new ideas and voices into the spotlight.

Week of October 19 – The Curse of Macbeth and Other Theatrical Superstitions – We uncover eerie tales behind the Macbeth curse and haunted theatres like the New Amsterdam and London’s Palace.

Week of October 26 – Vaudeville’s Rise and Fall – We journey through the world of Vaudeville with stars like Buster Keaton and Fanny Brice and explore its lasting impact.

Week of November 2 – Broadway and Theatre Around the World – We compare Broadway with stages around the world, like London’s West End and Japan’s Kabuki, through shows like Les Misérables and The Lion King.

Week of November 9 – Scandals, Riots, and Feuds – We dig into dramatic real-life moments like the Astor Place Riot and backstage conflicts surrounding Spring Awakening.

Week of November 16 – Stage vs. Screen – Can Film Ever Replace Live Theatre? – We explore the evolution of shows like West Side Story and Hamilton from stage to screen and ask what’s lost or gained.

Week of November 23 – OFF (Late November Break)

Week of November 30 – Curtain Call for Tomorrow – We dream big about the future of theatre, from dazzling tech effects to fresh musicals like Hadestown and Six. What could the next show-stopper look like?


🔁 Repeat Loop - remember you can jump in anytime! You do not have to wait for a loop to restart. 

Week of December 7 – Theatre’s First Spotlight – We explore the roots of performance through Greek tragedies like Oedipus Rex, and early rituals like Japanese Noh and medieval passion plays.

Week of December 14 – Banned, Burned, and Censored – We dive into banned shows like The Children’s Hour and Hair, and ask how theatre tests boundaries and reacts to criticism.

Week of December 21 – OFF (Winter Break)

Week of December 28 – OFF (Winter Break)

Week of January 4 – Breaking the Spotlight – We highlight legends like Sarah Bernhardt and Lorraine Hansberry, and see how women have made history both onstage and off.

Week of January 11 – Theatre as Protest – We look at bold productions like Hamilton and Rent to see how the stage brings new ideas and voices into the spotlight.

Week of January 18 – The Curse of Macbeth and Other Theatrical Superstitions – We uncover eerie tales behind the Macbeth curse and haunted theatres like the New Amsterdam and London’s Palace.

Week of January 25 – Vaudeville’s Rise and Fall – We journey through the world of Vaudeville with stars like Buster Keaton and Fanny Brice and explore its lasting impact.

Week of February 1 – Broadway and Theatre Around the World – We compare Broadway with stages around the world, like London’s West End and Japan’s Kabuki, through shows like Les Misérables and The Lion King.

Week of February 8 – Scandals, Riots, and Feuds – We dig into dramatic real-life moments like the Astor Place Riot and backstage conflicts surrounding Spring Awakening.

Week of February 15 – Stage vs. Screen – Can Film Ever Replace Live Theatre? – We explore the evolution of shows like West Side Story and Hamilton from stage to screen and ask what’s lost or gained.

Week of February 22 – Curtain Call for Tomorrow – We dream big about the future of theatre, from dazzling tech effects to fresh musicals like Hadestown and Six. What could the next show-stopper look like?


🔁 Repeat Loop - remember you can jump in anytime! You do not have to wait for a loop to restart. 

Week of March 1 – Theatre’s First Spotlight – We explore the roots of performance through Greek tragedies like Oedipus Rex, and early rituals like Japanese Noh and medieval passion plays.

Week of March 8 – Banned, Burned, and Censored – We dive into banned shows like The Children’s Hour and Hair, and ask how theatre tests boundaries and reacts to criticism.

Week of March 15 – Breaking the Spotlight – We highlight legends like Sarah Bernhardt and Lorraine Hansberry, and see how women have made history both onstage and off.

Week of March 22 – Theatre as Protest – We look at bold productions like Hamilton and Rent to see how the stage brings new ideas and voices into the spotlight.

Week of March 29 – The Curse of Macbeth and Other Theatrical Superstitions – We uncover eerie tales behind the Macbeth curse and haunted theatres like the New Amsterdam and London’s Palace.

Week of April 5 – OFF (Spring Break)

Week of April 12 – Vaudeville’s Rise and Fall – We journey through the world of Vaudeville with stars like Buster Keaton and Fanny Brice and explore its lasting impact.

Week of April 19 – Broadway and Theatre Around the World – We compare Broadway with stages around the world, like London’s West End and Japan’s Kabuki, through shows like Les Misérables and The Lion King.

Week of April 26 – Scandals, Riots, and Feuds – We dig into dramatic real-life moments like the Astor Place Riot and backstage conflicts surrounding Spring Awakening.

Week of May 3 – Stage vs. Screen – Can Film Ever Replace Live Theatre? – We explore the evolution of shows like West Side Story and Hamilton from stage to screen and ask what’s lost or gained.

Week of May 10 – Curtain Call for Tomorrow – We dream big about the future of theatre, from dazzling tech effects to fresh musicals like Hadestown and Six. What could the next show-stopper look like?


🔁 Repeat Loop - remember you can jump in anytime! You do not have to wait for a loop to restart. 

Week of May 17 – Theatre’s First Spotlight – We explore the roots of performance through Greek tragedies like Oedipus Rex, and early rituals like Japanese Noh and medieval passion plays.

Week of May 24 – Banned, Burned, and Censored – We dive into banned shows like The Children’s Hour and Hair, and ask how theatre tests boundaries and reacts to criticism.

Week of May 31 – Breaking the Spotlight – We highlight legends like Sarah Bernhardt and Lorraine Hansberry, and see how women have made history both onstage and off.

Week of June 7 – Theatre as Protest – We look at bold productions like Hamilton and Rent to see how the stage brings new ideas and voices into the spotlight.

Week of June 14 – The Curse of Macbeth and Other Theatrical Superstitions – We uncover eerie tales behind the Macbeth curse and haunted theatres like the New Amsterdam and London’s Palace.

Week of June 21 – Vaudeville’s Rise and Fall – We journey through the world of Vaudeville with stars like Buster Keaton and Fanny Brice and explore its lasting impact.

Week of June 28 – Broadway and Theatre Around the World – We compare Broadway with stages around the world, like London’s West End and Japan’s Kabuki, through shows like Les Misérables and The Lion King.


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Our classrooms are rooted in the Socratic teaching approach, where curiosity and critical thinking come to life. Learners are guided through open dialogue and meaningful conversations, allowing them to explore topics more deeply and develop a thorough understanding.

To accommodate diverse learning styles, we thoughtfully combine traditional methods—like videos and carefully chosen presentations—with interactive discussions. This balanced approach ensures that every learner feels engaged and supported in their journey.

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Please note that we value mental health and are committed to preventing teacher burnout. 

To support our team’s well-being, we take company-wide breaks during which no classes will be held and emails will not be answered.

You may experience a delay in responses during the following dates:


2025

April 19 - April 20 (Easter Break)
Week of June 30 (Beginning of Summer Break)
Week of Sept 1 (End of Summer Break)


Week of November 23, 2025 OFF (Late November Break)
Week of December 22, 2025 OFF - (Winter Break)


2026

Week of April 5, 2026 - OFF - (Spring Break)


In addition, teachers may need time off outside of these breaks as emergencies do happen. We always try our best to give ample notice when we can. You will never be charged for a day that we cancel classes.

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Policies and Guidelines 

🌟 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵
We believe in empowering educators to teach from the heart, embracing their unique styles and approaches. Each of our instructors brings their own passion and expertise to the classroom, which means not all classes will be taught in exactly the same way or use the same materials and assignments.

While the core topics and themes will always remain consistent, the teaching methods and resources may vary from class to class. This diversity enriches the learning experience and allows students to benefit from a range of perspectives and approaches.

We encourage our educators to stay true to their individual teaching styles while maintaining the high standards of engagement and quality that define our programs. This approach not only supports the creativity and authenticity of our teachers but also ensures that every class is an authentic and meaningful experience.

🌟 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
We strictly adhere to Outschool's refund and rescheduling policy for all of our classes. Once a class has been paid for, there will be no deviation from Outschool's guidelines. We do not offer refunds or rescheduling outside of what Outschool allows.

We follow a structured classroom weekly breakdown schedule to maintain consistency. In cases where an instructor is unavailable, we will provide a substitute teacher whenever possible to ensure the course or club/enrichment classes remain on track. If no substitute is available for a scheduled class, refunds will be issued. Please note that no refunds will be given for choosing not to attend a substitute-led session.

🌟 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
To ensure a safe and secure learning environment, students are required to keep their cameras on for an initial visual verification at the beginning of class. After verification, students are welcome to turn their cameras off if they prefer, unless they have been verified by Outschool and have the verification badge, which exempts them from this requirement.

We understand that every learner has different comfort levels, and we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and supported. We meet students where they are, honoring their individuality and comfort while maintaining a safe, welcoming space for all.

🌟 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁
We believe that every learner deserves to feel valued and included. Our classrooms are welcoming and safe spaces for students of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated with kindness, respect, and dignity.

🌟 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
In compliance with Outschool's policies, we do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former families on any social networking site (e.g., Facebook, LinkedIn). Additionally, we do not provide or ask for any personal information, including email addresses or phone numbers.

🌟 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
Our approach to homework prioritizes meaningful reinforcement rather than quantity. We assign one targeted activity each week that directly aligns with the material covered in class. These assignments are thoughtfully designed to help students apply what they’ve learned in a purposeful and effective way.

It is important to note that our organization does not offer classes that guarantee an hour of homework each week. Instead, we focus on comprehension and retention through thoughtful in-class discussions and purposeful assignments, avoiding excessive or repetitive work.

All homework assignments must be submitted during the week the lesson was taught in order to receive feedback. Writing assignments must be submitted in a typed format—either as a Google Doc, Word document, comment, or private email on the platform.
Photos of handwritten work will not be accepted since they are often too difficult to read and provide feedback on.

Learners who need assistance with typing are welcome to have someone type for them, as long as the work itself remains the student's own ideas and words.

All writing assignments will be assessed based on a rubric, and feedback will be given using that rubric to ensure clarity and consistency.

🌟 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
We believe that learning is a collaborative process that involves the whole family. We regularly provide feedback to families because we value open communication and want to make sure everyone feels informed, supported, and involved in the learning journey. Our goal is to ensure that both learners and families feel confident and happy with their progress and experience.

We truly value family input and encourage open communication. Whether it’s celebrating successes or discussing areas to improve, we’re here to make sure everyone feels included in the process.