Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever heard of a Broadway show? If yes, which one do you know about? If not, would you like to learn more about them?
- What makes a live performance special compared to watching TV or movies?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- theater /THEE-uh-ter/
- satire /SAT-ahyuhr/
- inspired /in-SPAHYURD/
- reignite /ree-uhg-NITE/
- originally /uh-RIJ-uh-nl-ee/
[noun] – a building or place where plays, movies, or performances are shown
The local theater is showing a new film this weekend.
[noun] – a way of using humor or exaggeration to criticize or mock something
The comedian’s routine was a clever satire of everyday life.
[adjective] – influenced by something or someone; having a special or unique quality
The artist’s new painting features a series of inspired colors and shapes, reflecting the vibrant landscapes of her travels.
[verb] – to make something, especially a feeling or interest, start again after it has stopped
The speech helped to reignite his passion for learning.
[adverb] – in the beginning or at first.
The book was originally published in 1995.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Television actress Alyssa Milano, known for her roles in “Who’s the Boss?” and “Charmed,” will make her Broadway debut in the musical “Chicago” this fall. Milano will play the character Roxie Hart starting on September 16 at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City. This eight-week engagement will continue until November 10. Milano decided to join “Chicago” now because her family life is stable, allowing her to return to theater. The musical, set in the 1920s, is famous for its sharp satire on how society and media turn criminals into celebrities. It features Bob Fosse-inspired dance moves and popular songs like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango.”
Milano is thrilled about this new opportunity and aims to reignite her passion for the stage. She admires Ann Reinking, the choreographer who originally played Roxie in the 1996 revival, and plans to honor Reinking’s work while adding her own touch to the role. Milano’s Broadway debut is expected to attract a lot of attention and could be a major highlight of the season, especially after her recent achievements in film and television.
Milano is thrilled about this new opportunity and aims to reignite her passion for the stage. She admires Ann Reinking, the choreographer who originally played Roxie in the 1996 revival, and plans to honor Reinking’s work while adding her own touch to the role. Milano’s Broadway debut is expected to attract a lot of attention and could be a major highlight of the season, especially after her recent achievements in film and television.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What role will Alyssa Milano play in the Broadway musical “Chicago”?
- When does Alyssa Milano’s engagement in “Chicago” start and end?
- Why did Milano choose to join “Chicago” at this time?
- What is the setting and theme of the musical “Chicago”?
- Who was the original performer of the role of Roxie Hart in the 1996 revival?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever been to a live theater performance? If yes, what was the experience like? If not, would you like to attend one? Why?
- Have you ever watched a musical or play that left a strong impression on you? If so, what made it memorable? If not, what type of performance would you be interested in seeing?
- Do you agree that theater performances have a unique way of connecting with the audience compared to other forms of entertainment?
- In your opinion, what makes a Broadway show successful?
- What role does media play in shaping the public’s interest in Broadway shows? How can media coverage or reviews affect the popularity of a show?