American Musical theatre has been a popular form of entertainment since the early twentieth century. It has evolved over the years to become one of the most beloved and timeless art forms in the United States.
There are many influences that have shaped American Musical Theatre, from its roots in vaudeville and minstrel shows to its more modern iterations.
The Influence of Vaudeville
Vaudeville was a type of variety show that was popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It consisted of a mixture of different types of performances, such as comedy skits, musical acts, dance routines, and theatrical productions.
Vaudeville provided a platform for performers to showcase their talents in an entertaining way and laid the foundation for American Musical Theatre. The choreography, singing, and acting seen on stage during these shows served as a major influence for later musical theatre productions.
The Influence of Minstrel Shows
Minstrel shows were another popular form of entertainment during this era that had an influence on American Musical Theatre. These shows featured white performers wearing blackface makeup to portray African-American characters in comedic skits and songs.
While this type of performance is now considered offensive and inappropriate, it was extremely popular at the time and had a great impact on musical theatre. The minstrel show’s use of comedic dialogue coupled with catchy songs helped shape how musicals were structured.
The Influence of Jazz
Jazz is an African-American art form that emerged in the early 20th century as an offshoot of blues music. This genre allowed musicians to express themselves in new ways by combining improvisation with traditional music elements such as swing rhythms and syncopation.
Jazz quickly became popular among audiences across the country and began influencing other art forms, including American Musical Theatre. Musicals began incorporating jazz elements into their scores, resulting in more upbeat songs with lively tempos.
Conclusion:
The influences mentioned above have all had a significant impact on American Musical Theatre throughout its history. From its roots in vaudeville and minstrel shows to its incorporation of jazz elements into its scores, these influences have shaped musicals into what they are today—timeless works of art that will continue to entertain audiences for generations to come.