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 specialty acts such as comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians. It was known for its diverse entertainment styles and served as a vital precursor to modern musical theater, influencing early Broadway productions and tap dance performances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vaudeville shows were typically family-friendly and included a variety of acts that appealed to a wide audience, often performing in theaters across America.
2. The rise of film in the 1920s led to a decline in vaudeville's popularity as movie theaters became the main source of entertainment.
3. Many famous performers got their start in vaudeville, including George Burns, Bob Hope, and Buster Keaton, who showcased their talents in front of live audiences.
4. Vaudeville played a significant role in popularizing tap dance as many acts featured this energetic dance style, which became a staple of American entertainment.
5. Vaudeville also influenced early Broadway musicals by incorporating diverse performance styles and paving the way for the modern musical format.

Review Questions

• How did vaudeville influence the development of tap dance as an essential part of American entertainment?
  • Vaudeville had a major impact on the evolution of tap dance by providing a platform where this energetic style could flourish. Many tap dancers performed in vaudeville shows, showcasing their skills alongside singers and comedians. This exposure helped tap dance gain popularity among audiences and influenced its integration into later musical theater productions, where rhythm and dance became essential elements of storytelling.
• What role did vaudeville play in shaping early Broadway musicals during the transition from variety shows to more structured narratives?
  • Vaudeville served as a crucial stepping stone for the development of early Broadway musicals by merging various performance styles into cohesive narratives. As vaudeville shows combined diverse acts with storytelling elements, they paved the way for musicals that incorporated songs and dances into their plots. This shift from variety entertainment to more narrative-driven performances marked an important evolution in American theater.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of vaudeville in the context of early 20th-century American society and its lasting legacy in today's entertainment industry.
  • Vaudeville was culturally significant as it reflected the diverse social landscape of early 20th-century America, showcasing talent from various ethnic backgrounds and contributing to a shared national culture. It provided opportunities for performers from different walks of life to entertain audiences across the country. The legacy of vaudeville continues today, as its influence can be seen in contemporary variety shows and musical theater formats, highlighting its role in shaping modern entertainment while celebrating diversity and creativity.

Related terms

Variety Show: A stage entertainment format that includes multiple acts, often featuring comedians, musicians, dancers, and other performers, similar to vaudeville but can vary in style and format.

Burlesque: A form of variety show characterized by comic and often risqué performances, which evolved from vaudeville and focused more on adult themes and humor.

Minstrel Shows: An early form of American entertainment that included comic skits, dancing, and music performed by white actors in blackface, which laid some groundwork for vaudeville acts.