American Vaudeville

Definition

American vaudeville was a theatrical variety show popular from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, featuring a mix of comedy, music, dance, and other forms of entertainment. It served as a significant platform for performers and contributed to the evolution of American popular culture, including the development of modern dance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vaudeville shows typically consisted of multiple acts that could include comedians, musicians, dancers, magicians, and acrobats, providing diverse entertainment for audiences.
2. Isadora Duncan was influenced by the performances she saw in vaudeville, which helped shape her ideas about expressive movement and improvisation in modern dance.
3. Vaudeville was instrumental in the careers of many famous entertainers, including Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Mae West, who all started in this vibrant performance environment.
4. The decline of vaudeville began with the rise of cinema in the 1920s, as films became the dominant form of entertainment and many vaudeville theaters closed.
5. Vaudeville played a crucial role in democratizing entertainment by providing opportunities for diverse performers and helping to break down racial barriers through mixed-race acts.

Review Questions

• How did American vaudeville contribute to the development of modern dance?
  • American vaudeville provided a stage for various forms of entertainment, allowing artists like Isadora Duncan to explore new movement styles. Duncan was inspired by the freedom and expressiveness found in vaudeville performances. This exposure helped her develop her philosophy of dance as an artistic expression rather than mere entertainment, paving the way for modern dance's emphasis on individuality and emotional depth.
• In what ways did American vaudeville reflect societal changes in America during its peak popularity?
  • American vaudeville mirrored societal changes by showcasing a diverse array of acts that represented various cultures and backgrounds. The inclusion of mixed-race performers challenged social norms and began breaking down racial barriers. Additionally, the variety format allowed for commentary on contemporary issues such as gender roles and class dynamics through satire and humor, making it a reflection of the evolving American identity during its time.
• Evaluate the impact of the decline of American vaudeville on the future of live performance arts in America.
  • The decline of American vaudeville led to significant shifts in live performance arts as audiences increasingly turned to film as a primary source of entertainment. This transition forced performers to adapt their skills for new mediums or seek opportunities in Broadway productions. The legacy of vaudeville persisted through its influence on musical theater and comedy formats in film and television, shaping how live performances evolved while highlighting the importance of variety in entertainment.

Related terms

Minstrel Shows: A form of entertainment that featured white performers in blackface, presenting comedic skits, dances, and music that often perpetuated racial stereotypes.

Burlesque: A theatrical variety show that combined humor, music, and dance, often with a more risqué or satirical twist compared to traditional vaudeville performances.

Ziegfeld Follies: A series of extravagant Broadway productions created by Florenz Ziegfeld that showcased beautiful women and featured a blend of music, comedy, and dance.