Vaudeville

Definition

Vaudeville is a theatrical variety show that became popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring a mix of entertainment acts such as comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians. This form of entertainment was characterized by its diverse and often eclectic range of performances, allowing it to draw in audiences from various backgrounds and tastes, ultimately influencing the development of modern entertainment forms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vaudeville emerged as a popular form of entertainment in the United States during the late 1800s, reaching its peak in popularity from the 1890s to the 1920s.
2. The structure of vaudeville shows was often composed of multiple acts with no overarching narrative, allowing for a wide variety of performance styles to coexist.
3. Many famous entertainers began their careers in vaudeville, including Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, and Mae West, showcasing its importance as a training ground for future stars.
4. Vaudeville venues were often family-friendly and encouraged diverse audiences, making it accessible to various social classes and ethnic groups.
5. The decline of vaudeville in the 1930s was influenced by the rise of cinema and the popularity of radio, which offered more streamlined and focused forms of entertainment.

Review Questions

• How did vaudeville's structure contribute to its appeal among diverse audiences?
  • Vaudeville's structure, which featured a variety of acts with no central narrative, allowed for an eclectic mix of entertainment that appealed to a wide range of tastes. This diversity meant that audiences could enjoy everything from comedy to music to magic tricks in a single performance. The format also made it easy for families to attend together, as there was something for everyone at a vaudeville show.
• In what ways did vaudeville influence later forms of entertainment such as television and stand-up comedy?
  • Vaudeville set the stage for modern entertainment by introducing the concept of variety shows and emphasizing short performances that keep audiences engaged. Many elements from vaudeville can be seen in television variety shows and stand-up comedy today. The importance placed on comedic timing and diverse performance styles in vaudeville can be traced through to these contemporary formats, showcasing how this early art form paved the way for future entertainers.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of vaudeville in shaping American entertainment and social dynamics during its peak years.
  • Vaudeville played a crucial role in shaping American entertainment by providing a platform for diverse performers and fostering cultural exchange among different social groups. It reflected and influenced societal norms by showcasing talent from various ethnic backgrounds while also reinforcing some stereotypes found in minstrel shows. The accessibility of vaudeville to families and individuals from different social classes made it an essential part of American culture during its peak years, ultimately contributing to the evolution of future entertainment mediums like film and television.

Related terms

Burlesque: A theatrical variety show that typically includes comedic sketches, music, and dance, often with a risqué or satirical edge.

Minstrel Shows: A form of American entertainment that featured comic performances and music by white performers in blackface, often perpetuating racial stereotypes.

Cabaret: A style of entertainment that combines music, dance, and drama, typically performed in a restaurant or nightclub setting, often with an emphasis on adult themes.