Great Performances

Definition

Great Performances is a long-running television series that showcases high-quality theater productions, musical performances, and dance from around the world. It highlights the richness of live arts by bringing renowned performances to a broader audience, thus playing a vital role in public broadcasting and educational television's mission to promote cultural appreciation and accessibility to the arts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Great Performances premiered in 1972 and has featured a wide range of performances from Broadway musicals to international operas.
2. The series aims to make high-quality cultural content accessible to everyone, particularly those who may not have the opportunity to attend live performances.
3. Great Performances has won numerous awards for its contribution to television and the performing arts, highlighting its impact on both fields.
4. The show not only features famous performances but also spotlights emerging artists and lesser-known works, enriching the cultural landscape.
5. Through Great Performances, public broadcasting fulfills its educational mission by showcasing diverse art forms and promoting an understanding of the performing arts.

Review Questions

• How does Great Performances contribute to the mission of public broadcasting?
  • Great Performances contributes to public broadcasting by making high-quality cultural content accessible to a wider audience. It showcases a variety of live performances that might otherwise be limited to theatergoers or concert attendees, aligning with public broadcasting's goal to educate and enrich community culture. By airing these productions, it helps foster an appreciation for the performing arts among viewers who may not have direct access to such experiences.
• Discuss the impact of Great Performances on educational television programming.
  • Great Performances significantly impacts educational television programming by offering content that not only entertains but also informs viewers about various art forms. The series educates its audience on different theatrical styles, music genres, and cultural traditions, thus broadening their understanding of global arts. Its emphasis on quality performances serves as a model for other educational programs that seek to provide enriching content while engaging audiences with important cultural narratives.
• Evaluate the significance of Great Performances in promoting cultural diversity through its programming choices.
  • Great Performances plays a critical role in promoting cultural diversity by featuring a wide array of performances from various traditions around the world. By spotlighting both renowned artists and emerging talents from different backgrounds, it presents a comprehensive view of global performing arts. This commitment to diversity not only enriches viewers’ experiences but also fosters greater understanding and appreciation for different cultures, which is essential in today's interconnected society.

Related terms

Public Broadcasting: A system of non-commercial broadcasting that provides educational and cultural programming to the public, often funded by government and viewer donations.

Educational Television: Television programming aimed primarily at educating viewers, often including documentaries, instructional programs, and cultural showcases.

Performing Arts: Forms of creative activity that are performed in front of an audience, including theater, music, dance, and opera.