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American Literature – 1860 to Present
Table of Contents
Unit 8 Overview: Drama and Theater
8.1 American realism in theater
8.2 Expressionism in American drama
8.3 The American musical
8.4 Off-Broadway and experimental theater
8.5 Absurdist drama in America
8.6 Political theater

The American musical emerged as a unique art form in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It blended diverse theatrical traditions, reflecting the cultural melting pot of American society and incorporating various musical styles and storytelling techniques.

As the genre developed, it mirrored evolving cultural values and social changes. The musical's structure combined music, dance, and narrative to create a cohesive storytelling experience, adapting over time to reflect changing artistic sensibilities and audience expectations.

Origins of American musical

  • American musical theater emerged as a unique art form in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, blending various theatrical traditions
  • Reflects the cultural melting pot of American society, incorporating diverse musical styles and storytelling techniques
  • Developed alongside significant social and technological changes in American society, mirroring evolving cultural values

European operetta influences

  • Gilbert and Sullivan's comic operas popularized light musical theater in America
  • Viennese operettas introduced romantic plots and lush orchestrations
  • Franz Lehár's "The Merry Widow" (1905) inspired American adaptations and imitations
  • Operetta conventions shaped early musical comedy structure and style

Vaudeville and minstrel shows

  • Vaudeville circuits provided training ground for future musical theater performers
  • Variety show format influenced the episodic structure of early musicals
  • Minstrel shows contributed to the use of popular songs and dance routines
  • Ragtime music from vaudeville acts integrated into early musical scores
  • Comedy sketches and specialty acts evolved into musical comedy scenes

Early Broadway productions

  • "The Black Crook" (1866) considered first modern musical, combining melodrama with ballet
  • George M. Cohan pioneered the integration of songs into dramatic plots
  • "Show Boat" (1927) marked a turning point with its serious themes and integrated storyline
  • Ziegfeld Follies popularized lavish production values and star-driven shows
  • Early Broadway musicals established New York as the center of American theater

Structure and elements

  • American musicals developed a distinctive structure combining music, dance, and narrative
  • Elements work together to create a cohesive storytelling experience for the audience
  • Structure evolved over time, reflecting changing artistic sensibilities and audience expectations

Overture and opening number

  • Overture introduces musical themes and sets mood for the show
  • Typically performed by orchestra before curtain rises
  • Opening number establishes setting, characters, and central conflict
  • Often features ensemble cast and introduces protagonist
  • "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'" from "Oklahoma!" exemplifies character-establishing opening
  • "Another Op'nin', Another Show" from "Kiss Me, Kate" showcases backstage musical opening

Book vs sung-through musicals

  • Book musicals alternate between spoken dialogue and musical numbers
  • "Guys and Dolls" and "The Music Man" represent classic book musical structure
  • Sung-through musicals feature continuous music with minimal spoken dialogue
  • "Les Misérables" and "Jesus Christ Superstar" exemplify sung-through format
  • Hybrid forms combine elements of both styles, varying ratio of spoken to sung material

Integration of music and plot

  • Songs advance plot, reveal character motivations, or provide commentary
  • "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair" from "South Pacific" demonstrates character development through song
  • Dance numbers can serve narrative function, like "Dream Ballet" in "Oklahoma!"
  • Reprises and leitmotifs create musical continuity throughout the show
  • Integration of music and plot became hallmark of mature musical theater form

Golden Age of musicals

  • Period from 1940s to 1960s marked peak of musical theater's cultural influence
  • Characterized by sophisticated storytelling, memorable melodies, and innovative staging
  • Musicals of this era continue to influence contemporary theater and popular culture

Rodgers and Hammerstein era

  • Partnership revolutionized musical theater with integrated book musicals
  • "Oklahoma!" (1943) established new standard for narrative cohesion
  • "Carousel" (1945) explored darker themes and complex characters
  • "South Pacific" (1949) addressed racial prejudice and wartime romance
  • "The King and I" (1951) and "The Sound of Music" (1959) showcased cross-cultural themes

Notable composers and lyricists

  • Irving Berlin wrote both music and lyrics for shows like "Annie Get Your Gun"
  • Cole Porter known for witty wordplay in "Kiss Me, Kate" and "Anything Goes"
  • Lerner and Loewe created "My Fair Lady" and "Camelot"
  • Frank Loesser composed "Guys and Dolls" and "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying"
  • Jerry Herman wrote upbeat crowd-pleasers like "Hello, Dolly!" and "Mame"

Iconic shows 1940s-1960s

  • "West Side Story" (1957) updated "Romeo and Juliet" with contemporary setting and dance
  • "Gypsy" (1959) explored show business and complex mother-daughter relationship
  • "Fiddler on the Roof" (1964) examined tradition and change in Jewish community
  • "Funny Girl" (1964) launched Barbra Streisand to stardom
  • "Man of La Mancha" (1965) adapted Cervantes' "Don Quixote" with innovative framing device

Themes and social commentary

  • American musicals often address contemporary social issues and cultural shifts
  • Provide platform for exploring complex themes through accessible entertainment format
  • Reflect and sometimes challenge societal norms and values of their time

American identity exploration

  • "1776" dramatized the founding of the United States
  • "Ragtime" examined intersection of different social groups in early 20th century America
  • "Hamilton" reframed Founding Fathers' story through contemporary lens
  • "Assassins" explored dark side of American Dream through presidential assassins
  • Musicals often celebrate and critique aspects of American culture simultaneously

Race and ethnicity representation

  • "Show Boat" addressed racial issues in late 19th century Mississippi
  • "South Pacific" challenged racial prejudice with song "You've Got to Be Carefully Taught"
  • "The Wiz" reimagined "The Wizard of Oz" with all-Black cast
  • "Miss Saigon" sparked controversy over Asian representation and yellowface casting
  • "In the Heights" celebrated Latinx community in Washington Heights, New York

Gender roles and relationships

  • "Annie Get Your Gun" featured strong female protagonist challenging gender norms
  • "My Fair Lady" explored class and gender expectations in Edwardian England
  • "A Chorus Line" revealed personal stories of diverse ensemble cast members
  • "La Cage aux Folles" portrayed same-sex relationship in groundbreaking way
  • "Fun Home" examined coming-of-age and coming-out experiences of lesbian protagonist

Evolution of musical styles

  • Musical theater has continually incorporated contemporary music styles
  • Reflects changing tastes of audiences and innovations in popular music
  • Allows musicals to remain relevant and appealing to new generations

Jazz and swing influences

  • "Ain't Misbehavin'" celebrated music of Fats Waller and Harlem Renaissance
  • "Chicago" incorporated vaudeville-style jazz numbers
  • "Sophisticated Ladies" showcased Duke Ellington's music
  • Scat singing and improvisation techniques integrated into musical performances
  • Big band arrangements influenced orchestrations in shows like "42nd Street"

Rock and pop integration

  • "Hair" introduced rock music to Broadway in late 1960s
  • "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Godspell" brought rock opera style to religious themes
  • "Rent" updated "La Bohème" with rock score reflecting 1990s East Village
  • "Spring Awakening" combined 19th century setting with contemporary alt-rock sound
  • Jukebox musicals like "Mamma Mia!" built shows around existing pop song catalogs

Hip-hop and contemporary genres

  • "Hamilton" revolutionized musical theater with its hip-hop and R&B infused score
  • "In the Heights" blended Latin music styles with rap and hip-hop elements
  • "Hadestown" incorporated folk and New Orleans jazz influences
  • "Six" reimagined Tudor history through contemporary pop music lens
  • "Be More Chill" integrated electronic dance music (EDM) into its score

Notable composers and works

  • Influential composers shaped development of American musical theater
  • Their works often pushed boundaries of form and content
  • Many continue to be performed and studied decades after premiere

Leonard Bernstein's contributions

  • "On the Town" combined classical training with jazz influences
  • "West Side Story" featured complex score integrating Latin rhythms and dissonant harmonies
  • "Candide" blended operetta style with satirical content
  • Bernstein's music elevated sophistication of Broadway orchestrations
  • His works bridged gap between popular and classical music traditions

Stephen Sondheim's innovations

  • Apprenticed under Oscar Hammerstein II, developed unique lyrical style
  • "Company" introduced concept musical format without traditional plot
  • "Sweeney Todd" pushed boundaries of musical theater with operatic score and dark themes
  • "Sunday in the Park with George" explored artistic process and legacy
  • "Into the Woods" deconstructed fairy tales with complex moral themes
  • Sondheim's works known for intricate wordplay and psychological depth

Andrew Lloyd Webber's spectacles

  • Pioneered rock opera style with "Jesus Christ Superstar"
  • "Cats" based on T.S. Eliot poems, featured innovative set and costume design
  • "The Phantom of the Opera" became longest-running Broadway show
  • "Sunset Boulevard" adapted Billy Wilder film with lavish production values
  • Lloyd Webber's works often feature memorable melodies and grand visual elements

Broadway vs Off-Broadway

  • Distinction between Broadway and Off-Broadway productions significant in American theater
  • Reflects differences in scale, artistic approach, and economic considerations
  • Both play crucial roles in development of new works and talent

Production scale differences

  • Broadway theaters seat 500 or more, Off-Broadway typically 100-499 seats
  • Broadway shows have larger budgets, more elaborate sets and costumes
  • Off-Broadway productions often feature smaller casts and simpler staging
  • Broadway runs tend to be open-ended, Off-Broadway more likely to have limited engagements
  • Union regulations and pay scales differ between Broadway and Off-Broadway

Experimental vs mainstream musicals

  • Off-Broadway often serves as testing ground for innovative or risky material
  • "Hair" and "Godspell" started Off-Broadway before transferring to larger venues
  • "Little Shop of Horrors" exemplifies successful Off-Broadway musical
  • Broadway tends to favor more commercial, crowd-pleasing productions
  • Off-Broadway allows for greater artistic freedom and experimentation

Economic considerations

  • Broadway shows require higher ticket prices to recoup larger production costs
  • Off-Broadway productions can be profitable with smaller audiences and lower overhead
  • Broadway success often measured by long runs and tourist appeal
  • Off-Broadway focuses on critical acclaim and cultivating dedicated local audience
  • Some shows like "Avenue Q" move from Broadway to Off-Broadway for extended runs

Adaptation and inspiration

  • Many successful musicals draw inspiration from existing works or historical events
  • Adaptation process involves reimagining source material for musical theater format
  • Challenges include balancing fidelity to original with needs of new medium

Literature to musical translations

  • "Les Misérables" adapted Victor Hugo's epic novel
  • "The Phantom of the Opera" based on Gaston Leroux's Gothic novel
  • "Wicked" drew inspiration from Gregory Maguire's revisionist Oz novel
  • "Fun Home" translated Alison Bechdel's graphic memoir to stage
  • Adaptation process often involves condensing plot and adding musical elements

Film to stage adaptations

  • "The Producers" expanded Mel Brooks' film into full-length musical
  • "Hairspray" transformed John Waters' cult film into Broadway hit
  • "Legally Blonde" translated romantic comedy to musical format
  • "Waitress" adapted indie film with Sara Bareilles' pop-influenced score
  • Stage versions often amplify emotional content through songs and live performance

Jukebox musicals

  • "Mamma Mia!" built romantic comedy around ABBA's song catalog
  • "Jersey Boys" dramatized story of The Four Seasons using their music
  • "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" traced singer-songwriter's career
  • "Movin' Out" used Billy Joel's songs to create dance-heavy narrative
  • Jukebox musicals appeal to nostalgia and familiarity of popular music

Technical aspects

  • Technical elements crucial to creating immersive theatrical experience
  • Innovations in stagecraft continually expand possibilities for storytelling
  • Collaboration between creative and technical teams essential for successful production

Choreography and staging

  • Jerome Robbins revolutionized integration of dance into storytelling
  • Bob Fosse developed distinctive jazz dance style in shows like "Chicago"
  • Susan Stroman known for inventive choreography in shows like "The Producers"
  • Staging involves blocking actors' movements and managing scene transitions
  • Directors like Hal Prince pioneered cinematic staging techniques

Set design and costuming

  • Oliver Smith's designs for "My Fair Lady" set new standards for Broadway opulence
  • Ming Cho Lee introduced abstract and minimalist set designs
  • Julie Taymor's costumes for "The Lion King" blend puppetry and human performers
  • Projection design increasingly used to create dynamic backdrops and effects
  • Quick change techniques allow for rapid costume transformations during performances

Sound and lighting innovations

  • Microphone technology evolved from floor mics to body mics for performers
  • Digital sound boards allow for complex audio cues and effects
  • LED lighting expands color palette and reduces energy consumption
  • Automated lighting systems enable precise control and complex cue sequences
  • Sound design creates immersive audio environments beyond just amplifying voices

Cultural impact

  • American musicals have significant influence on popular culture and global entertainment
  • Reflect and shape societal values, often addressing contemporary issues
  • Create passionate fan communities and inspire broader cultural phenomena
  • Songs from musicals often become popular hits outside theater context
  • Musical theater references frequently appear in films and television shows
  • Broadway performers often crossover into film, television, and recording careers
  • Phrases and characters from musicals enter common vernacular
  • High school and community theater productions spread musical theater culture widely

International influence and tours

  • West End in London closely tied to Broadway, with frequent show exchanges
  • "Les Misérables" and "The Phantom of the Opera" achieved global popularity
  • Disney Theatrical Productions expanded reach of musical theater worldwide
  • International productions often adapt shows for local cultural contexts
  • Broadway tours bring shows to audiences across United States and globally

Cast recordings and fandom

  • Original Cast Recordings preserve performances and spread music beyond theater
  • Fans often learn entire scores, creating deep connection to shows
  • Online communities allow fans to connect and share experiences
  • Stage Door culture allows fans to interact with performers after shows
  • Fan art, cosplay, and social media engagement extend life of shows beyond stage
  • Musical theater continues to evolve, embracing new technologies and social movements
  • Reflects changing demographics and expectations of modern audiences
  • Explores innovative ways to engage viewers both in theater and through digital platforms

Diversity and representation

  • "Hamilton" cast actors of color as historical white figures, sparking discussions on representation
  • "The Color Purple" and "Dreamgirls" showcase predominantly Black casts and stories
  • "Allegiance" and "Soft Power" bring Asian American experiences to Broadway stage
  • Gender-blind and non-traditional casting challenge conventional roles
  • Increased focus on diverse creative teams behind the scenes

Immersive and interactive experiences

  • "Sleep No More" pioneered immersive theater experience based on "Macbeth"
  • "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812" featured innovative in-the-round staging
  • "Be More Chill" incorporated social media elements into its marketing and storytelling
  • Virtual reality and augmented reality experiments expand theatrical boundaries
  • Site-specific productions like "Here Lies Love" create unique environmental experiences

Digital streaming and accessibility

  • COVID-19 pandemic accelerated development of streaming options for theater
  • "Hamilton" on Disney+ brought Broadway production to global audience
  • National Theatre Live broadcasts high-quality recordings of stage productions
  • Virtual tickets and online stage doors increase access for remote audiences
  • Digital programs and behind-the-scenes content enhance viewer experience
  • Streaming platforms commission and produce original musical content

Key Terms to Review (47)

Audience engagement: Audience engagement refers to the ways in which performers connect with their audience, actively involving them in the experience. This interaction can enhance emotional responses, build community, and create a memorable experience. It is essential in forms of art that rely on live performance, allowing for an exchange of energy between the performer and the audience that can shape the overall impact of the work.
The phantom of the opera: The Phantom of the Opera is a musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on the 1910 novel by Gaston Leroux. It tells the story of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius who lives beneath the Paris Opera House and becomes infatuated with Christine Daaé, a young soprano. This musical blends romance, horror, and drama while exploring themes of love, obsession, and societal rejection.
Into the Woods: 'Into the Woods' is a musical by Stephen Sondheim that intertwines the plots of various fairy tales, exploring themes of desire, consequences, and the complexities of human relationships. The musical takes characters from well-known stories such as Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, and others, leading them into a forest where their wishes and aspirations are tested against harsh realities. This exploration of familiar narratives reflects deeper moral questions and challenges the notion of 'happily ever after'.
Cats: Cats, in the context of American musicals, refers to a celebrated musical created by Andrew Lloyd Webber that premiered in 1981. It is based on T.S. Eliot's collection of poems 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats' and has become iconic for its unique blend of music, dance, and visual storytelling, showcasing a variety of feline characters through song and choreography.
Sweeney Todd: Sweeney Todd is a fictional character created by British writer George Dibdin Pitt and later popularized by Stephen Sondheim in his musical 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.' The character is a vengeful barber who murders his customers and partners with Mrs. Lovett, who turns the bodies into meat pies. This dark narrative explores themes of revenge, justice, and moral ambiguity, making it a significant work in the context of American musicals.
The Sound of Music: The Sound of Music is a celebrated American musical that premiered on Broadway in 1959, featuring music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. The story is set in Austria before World War II and follows a young aspiring nun, Maria, who becomes a governess for the seven children of widowed naval captain Georg von Trapp. This musical captures themes of love, family, and resistance against oppression, showcasing the importance of music and song as a source of hope and connection during challenging times.
Six: In the context of American musical theater, 'Six' is a contemporary musical that reimagines the lives of the six wives of King Henry VIII. It combines pop music with historical narrative, presenting each wife's story through a modern lens, showcasing themes of empowerment, individuality, and sisterhood.
La Cage aux Folles: La Cage aux Folles is a French musical comedy that premiered in 1983, telling the story of a gay couple running a drag nightclub in St. Tropez. The show gained significant popularity and acclaim for its exploration of themes like love, acceptance, and family dynamics within the LGBTQ+ community, impacting the landscape of American musicals that followed.
My Fair Lady: My Fair Lady is a celebrated American musical that premiered on Broadway in 1956, adapted from George Bernard Shaw's play Pygmalion. The story follows the transformation of Eliza Doolittle, a flower girl, into a refined lady by Professor Henry Higgins, showcasing themes of social class, identity, and language. The musical features iconic songs like 'I Could Have Danced All Night' and has left a significant impact on the evolution of American musicals.
Annie Get Your Gun: 'Annie Get Your Gun' is a classic American musical that premiered in 1946, featuring music and lyrics by Irving Berlin and a book by Dorothy Fields and Herbert Fields. The musical is a fictionalized account of the life of Annie Oakley, a sharpshooter who starred in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. It is notable for its exploration of themes like gender roles, love, and competition, as well as for its catchy songs and vibrant choreography that helped define the American musical theatre landscape in the mid-20th century.
A chorus line: A chorus line refers to a group of dancers or singers in a musical or theatrical production who perform together, often in unison, to enhance the storytelling and create a vibrant visual spectacle. This concept is fundamental in American musicals, as it not only showcases individual talent but also emphasizes the collective effort of the performers, often conveying themes of camaraderie, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams.
The Wiz: The Wiz is a musical adaptation of L. Frank Baum's classic children's novel, 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', reimagined with an African American perspective and a score infused with soul, R&B, and funk. This production brought a fresh take on the original story, emphasizing themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and the importance of community while showcasing the rich cultural contributions of African American artists in the theater scene.
In the Heights: In the Heights is a musical created by Lin-Manuel Miranda that debuted in 2008, showcasing the lives and aspirations of a close-knit Latino community in Washington Heights, New York City. The story revolves around themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of dreams, blending elements of hip-hop, salsa, and traditional musical styles to create a vibrant tapestry that reflects the cultural richness of its setting.
Fun Home: Fun Home is a graphic memoir by Alison Bechdel that explores her childhood and relationship with her father, a funeral home director, while also delving into themes of sexuality, identity, and the complexities of family dynamics. This work stands out for its innovative blend of visual art and narrative, making it a significant contribution to both literature and the American musical genre.
The producers: In the context of the American musical, the producers refer to the individuals or organizations responsible for financing, managing, and overseeing the production of a musical theater performance. Their role encompasses everything from securing funding and hiring creative teams to marketing the show and ensuring its commercial success, making them a crucial part of the theater industry.
Hairspray: Hairspray is a popular American musical that features a vibrant and energetic story centered around the themes of acceptance, social change, and the power of dance. Set in 1960s Baltimore, it tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a young girl with big dreams who fights for integration on a local dance television show. The musical combines catchy songs, dynamic choreography, and a humorous yet poignant message about body positivity and racial equality.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is a biographical musical that tells the story of singer-songwriter Carole King's rise to fame, showcasing her journey from a young girl with a dream to becoming one of the most successful female musicians of all time. This musical combines King's timeless songs with her personal narrative, highlighting the struggles and triumphs she faced in both her career and personal life.
Mamma mia!: The phrase 'mamma mia!' is an Italian exclamation that expresses surprise, shock, or excitement. In the context of American musicals, it has become popularly associated with both the musical 'Mamma Mia!' and the genre's tendency to celebrate emotions and exuberant storytelling through music and dance. The phrase encapsulates the vibrant and often comedic spirit of the narratives found within American musicals.
Rent: In the context of American musicals, 'Rent' refers to a groundbreaking rock musical created by Jonathan Larson that premiered in 1996. It explores themes of love, loss, and the struggles of life in New York City’s East Village during the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly focusing on issues related to the AIDS crisis and the experiences of marginalized communities. 'Rent' broke traditional musical theater conventions with its diverse characters, contemporary music, and raw storytelling.
Hair: In the context of American musical theater and experimental theater, 'hair' refers to both a literal and metaphorical symbol representing freedom, rebellion, and identity. It embodies the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s, emphasizing themes such as individual expression and societal norms. Hair often serves as a focal point for characters' personal journeys, reflecting their struggles against conformity and the search for self-identity in a rapidly changing world.
Chicago: Chicago is a major American city known for its significant contributions to the development of the American musical theater. The city became a hub for theatrical innovation in the early 20th century, where diverse cultural influences merged to create groundbreaking works. Its vibrant arts scene, characterized by its unique blend of music styles such as jazz and blues, played a crucial role in shaping the American musical landscape.
Ain't misbehavin': 'Ain't Misbehavin'' is a popular jazz and musical standard composed by Fats Waller in 1929, capturing the essence of the jazz era and its themes of love, longing, and fidelity. The song conveys a playful yet sincere message about devotion, suggesting that even in the absence of a partner, one remains faithful and committed. This song, along with its subsequent interpretations in musicals and revivals, showcases the development of African American musical forms and their significant impact on American culture.
Jesus Christ Superstar: Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock opera composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice, first released as an album in 1970 and later adapted for the stage. The musical presents a modern retelling of the last weeks of Jesus Christ’s life, focusing on his relationships with Judas Iscariot, Mary Magdalene, and his disciples, blending rock music with dramatic storytelling.
The Music Man: The Music Man is a classic American musical written by Meredith Willson, first performed on Broadway in 1957. The story centers around con artist Harold Hill, who poses as a boys' band organizer in a small town in Iowa, promising to create a band and teach the townsfolk about music. This musical is notable for its catchy tunes, memorable characters, and themes of deception, community, and the transformative power of music.
Guys and Dolls: 'Guys and Dolls' is a classic American musical that premiered on Broadway in 1950, featuring a book by Abe Burrows and Jo Swerling and music and lyrics by Frank Loesser. The story revolves around the lives of gamblers and the women who love them, blending humor and romance with themes of fate and commitment. The musical is well-known for its vibrant characters, catchy songs, and its depiction of New York City during the early 20th century, reflecting the cultural atmosphere of the time.
Les misérables: Les Misérables is a monumental novel written by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, that explores themes of justice, redemption, and the struggles of the marginalized in society. The story follows several characters, particularly Jean Valjean, as they navigate the challenges of poverty, law, and love in post-revolutionary France. This work has inspired various adaptations, including a renowned American musical that captures its emotional depth and societal critique through powerful music and lyrics.
Ziegfeld Follies: The Ziegfeld Follies was a series of theatrical revue shows produced by Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. that began in 1907 and ran through the 1930s. Known for their lavish production values, spectacular choreography, and beautiful showgirls, these productions blended comedy, music, and dance to create a uniquely American form of entertainment that significantly influenced the American musical landscape.
Show boat: A show boat is a floating theater that travels along rivers and provides entertainment, particularly musical performances and plays. These boats played a significant role in American culture, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries, as they brought theatrical productions to remote communities along the waterways, combining elements of performance art with the unique experience of river travel.
Oklahoma!: Oklahoma! is a groundbreaking American musical that debuted in 1943, composed by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. It is notable for its innovative integration of music, lyrics, and storytelling, marking a shift in the musical theater landscape by combining a serious narrative with engaging song and dance. This production set the standard for future musicals and introduced themes of love, conflict, and community within an American setting.
The Black Crook: The Black Crook is a seminal theatrical production that premiered in 1866, often credited as the first American musical. This groundbreaking show combined elements of melodrama, ballet, and music to create a unique form of entertainment that would set the stage for future American musicals.
Minstrelsy: Minstrelsy refers to a theatrical form of entertainment that emerged in the early 19th century in the United States, characterized by performers in blackface who caricatured African American culture. This genre often included music, dance, and comedic skits, reflecting and reinforcing racial stereotypes while providing a form of entertainment that was popular among white audiences. Minstrelsy significantly influenced the development of American musical theater and left a lasting legacy on the representation of race in performance arts.
Vaudeville: Vaudeville is a theatrical variety show that became popular in the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, featuring a mix of specialty acts, such as comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians. It served as a significant precursor to modern musical theater, bringing together diverse performances in an entertaining format that appealed to a wide audience.
Cultural commentary: Cultural commentary refers to the analysis and critique of societal norms, values, and practices through various forms of art and literature. It provides insight into the human experience, often highlighting contradictions, injustices, or changes within a culture. This form of expression can provoke thought and dialogue, influencing public perception and contributing to cultural discourse.
Orchestration: Orchestration refers to the art of arranging music for an orchestra, which involves assigning different musical parts to various instruments to create a cohesive and rich sound. This process not only highlights the unique qualities of each instrument but also enhances the overall texture and emotional impact of a musical composition, especially in the context of theatrical productions like musicals.
Choreography: Choreography is the art of designing and arranging movements and patterns in dance. It involves creating sequences that can convey emotions, tell a story, or enhance the overall aesthetic of a performance. In the context of performance arts like the American musical, choreography is essential for integrating dance with music and narrative, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for the audience.
Pulitzer Prize for Drama: The Pulitzer Prize for Drama is a prestigious American award presented annually to recognize distinguished plays. It was established in 1917 and honors excellence in the field of theater, focusing on works that exemplify the power of storytelling through performance. This award highlights significant contributions to the American stage, reflecting cultural, social, and political themes that resonate with audiences.
Score: In the context of American musicals, a score refers to the written music that accompanies a musical production, including songs, instrumental pieces, and orchestration. The score plays a crucial role in conveying the emotional depth and narrative of the story through its melodies and harmonies, connecting characters to their experiences and enhancing the overall theatrical experience.
Tony Awards: The Tony Awards are prestigious accolades presented annually to recognize excellence in live Broadway theatre. Named after Antoinette Perry, these awards celebrate achievements in various categories, including acting, directing, and design, and serve as a benchmark for quality within the American musical landscape.
Libretto: A libretto is the text or script of a musical work, particularly in the context of opera and musical theater. It includes all the words sung by the performers, along with any spoken dialogue, stage directions, and notes about the performance. The libretto serves as a crucial element in shaping the narrative and emotional impact of the production, linking music and storytelling in a cohesive way.
Stephen Sondheim: Stephen Sondheim is a highly influential American composer and lyricist known for his contributions to musical theatre from the 1950s onwards. He revolutionized the American musical by integrating complex themes, intricate lyrics, and innovative musical structures, setting new standards for storytelling through song. His work often explores darker and more sophisticated subject matter, distinguishing him from previous composers and shaping the landscape of modern musical theatre.
West Side Story: West Side Story is a landmark American musical that debuted on Broadway in 1957, reimagining Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet in the context of 1950s New York City. The story revolves around the rivalry between two teenage gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, and explores themes of love, violence, and social conflict. With its innovative blend of music, dance, and poignant storytelling, it has become a defining work in American musical theater.
Hamilton: Hamilton is a groundbreaking American musical created by Lin-Manuel Miranda that tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. It is notable for its innovative blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes, using a diverse cast to reframe the narrative of America's history and challenge the conventional representation of historical figures.
Juke box musical: A juke box musical is a type of musical theater that features a collection of previously released popular songs, often from a specific artist or genre, woven into an original narrative. These musicals rely on well-known music to engage audiences and evoke nostalgia, allowing them to connect emotionally with the story while enjoying familiar tunes. The success of juke box musicals has led to their rise in popularity, as they blend classic songs with new storytelling.
Rodgers and Hammerstein: Rodgers and Hammerstein were a renowned American songwriting duo, consisting of composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II, who revolutionized the musical theatre landscape from the 1940s to the 1960s. Their collaboration created a new style of musical that integrated songs and storytelling, leading to a more cohesive narrative in productions such as 'Oklahoma!', 'South Pacific', and 'The Sound of Music'. This transformation not only enhanced the emotional depth of musicals but also set the standard for future works in the genre.
Book musical: A book musical is a type of musical theater that combines a cohesive story, or 'book', with songs and dances. This form integrates dialogue, character development, and musical numbers to create a narrative experience. Book musicals often focus on character arcs and emotional depth, distinguishing them from revues or more loosely structured productions.
Identity: Identity refers to the characteristics, qualities, or beliefs that make a person or group distinct. It encompasses aspects such as race, gender, nationality, culture, and personal experiences, shaping how individuals see themselves and how they are perceived by others. This concept is intricately connected to themes of self-exploration, social roles, and the complexities of human experience across various narratives.
Social issues: Social issues refer to problems that affect individuals and communities, often arising from social, economic, or political inequalities. These issues can include poverty, racism, gender inequality, and more, and they are often addressed through various forms of artistic expression. In American realism in theater and the American musical, social issues serve as critical themes that reflect and critique societal norms, influencing audience perceptions and sparking conversations about change.