Top hat

Definition

The top hat is a tall, cylindrical hat that became a symbol of sophistication and elegance in the 19th and early 20th centuries, often associated with formal wear and high society. In American cinema, particularly in the context of musicals, it represents the refined style of performance and often serves as a prop in iconic dance numbers, enhancing the visual spectacle and glamour that characterize the genre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Top hats became popular in the early 19th century and were commonly worn by men during formal occasions and events.
2. In musicals, the top hat often symbolizes a character's social status or sophistication, adding a visual element that enhances their performance.
3. Fred Astaire famously incorporated the top hat into many of his dance routines, using it as a key prop to showcase his style and flair.
4. The top hat is often associated with the jazz age and the celebration of urban sophistication that defined early American cinema.
5. Its use in iconic scenes, such as those featuring tap dancing, emphasizes the elegance and precision of movement that musicals strive to convey.

Review Questions

• How does the top hat contribute to character development in American musicals?
  • The top hat plays a significant role in character development by visually communicating a character's social status and personality traits. For instance, when a character dons a top hat, it often signifies refinement or ambition. This visual cue allows audiences to immediately grasp essential aspects of a character's identity and motivations within the story.
• Discuss how the use of the top hat in musical numbers enhances the overall aesthetic of a film.
  • The top hat adds an element of visual sophistication and elegance to musical numbers, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of films. It serves not just as an accessory but as a dynamic prop that dancers incorporate into their routines. The choreography often highlights the top hat's presence, creating memorable moments that emphasize grace and style while also elevating the spectacle of the performance.
• Evaluate the impact of the top hat on the cultural perception of American musicals during their rise to popularity.
  • The top hat significantly influenced cultural perceptions of American musicals by embodying themes of elegance, sophistication, and high society. As musicals gained popularity in Hollywood, the presence of elements like the top hat reinforced ideas about glamour and escapism that audiences craved during tough economic times. By associating the top hat with joy-filled performances and stylish characters, musicals helped to establish their place as an important form of entertainment that offered an idealized version of life.

Related terms

Fred Astaire:

An American dancer, singer, and actor known for his innovative dance techniques and captivating performances in classic Hollywood musicals.

Vaudeville: A theatrical variety show popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that featured multiple acts, including music, dance, and comedy, serving as a precursor to the modern musical.

Choreography: The art of designing sequences of movements in which motion, form, or both are specified, crucial to the storytelling and aesthetic of musicals.