1.9 Variety shows
11 min read•august 21, 2024
, a blend of entertainment forms, shaped TV programming from the 1950s to the 1970s. These shows combined music, comedy, and , appealing to wide audiences and launching many careers. Their influence is still felt in modern television.
Understanding variety shows is crucial for TV writing students. The format's structure, key elements, and writing techniques provide valuable insights into crafting engaging content. Despite declining popularity, variety show elements continue to evolve in contemporary programming.
History of variety shows
- Variety shows evolved from vaudeville and radio entertainment, shaping the landscape of television programming
- These shows combined multiple forms of entertainment, offering a diverse mix of content to appeal to wide audiences
- Understanding the history of variety shows provides crucial context for TV writing students to appreciate the genre's influence
Early radio variety shows
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- Originated in the 1920s and 1930s, featuring music, comedy skits, and celebrity guests
- Popular programs included "The Fleischmann's Yeast Hour" hosted by Rudy Vallee
- Established format elements still used in modern variety shows (, )
- Served as training ground for comedians and performers who later transitioned to television
Golden age of television
- Spanned from the 1950s to the 1970s, marking the peak of variety show popularity
- Iconic shows emerged (, )
- Variety shows dominated prime-time slots and attracted massive audiences
- Showcased a mix of established stars and emerging talents, launching many careers
Decline in popularity
- Began in the late 1970s and accelerated through the 1980s
- Factors contributing to decline included:
- Rise of specialized cable channels
- Changing viewer preferences for more focused content
- Increased production costs for large-scale variety productions
- Shift towards talk shows and reality programming as alternatives
Format and structure
- Variety shows follow a distinct structure that blends different entertainment elements
- Understanding this format is crucial for TV writing students to create cohesive and engaging content
- The structure allows for flexibility while maintaining a familiar framework for viewers
Opening monologue
- Typically delivered by the host to start the show
- Sets the tone and energy for the episode
- Often includes topical jokes and commentary on current events
- Serves to warm up the audience and introduce the show's themes
Musical performances
- Feature both established artists and up-and-coming talents
- Can include solo acts, duets, or full band performances
- Often tied to current popular music or promotional appearances
- Provide rhythm and pacing to the overall show structure
Comedy sketches
- Short, self-contained comedic scenes or parodies
- Can involve the host, regular cast members, and guest stars
- Range from topical satire to character-based comedy
- Offer opportunities for writers to showcase diverse comedic styles
Guest interviews
- Conversations between the host and celebrity guests
- Can be serious discussions or light-hearted banter
- Often promote upcoming projects or discuss current events
- Showcase the host's interviewing skills and ability to connect with guests
Key elements of variety shows
- These elements form the core of successful variety shows, creating a unique blend of entertainment
- TV writing students must understand how these components work together to create a cohesive program
- Mastering these elements allows writers to craft engaging and memorable variety show content
Host's role and personality
- Serves as the central figure and face of the show
- Sets the tone and style of the program
- Requires strong improvisational skills and ability to interact with guests
- Often develops a signature style or catchphrase ('s "Heeere's Johnny!")
- Balances multiple roles: comedian, interviewer, and master of ceremonies
Celebrity guests
- Provide star power and audience draw
- Can appear in various segments (interviews, sketches, musical performances)
- Often promote upcoming projects or discuss current events
- Interaction with host and other guests creates unique, spontaneous moments
Live audience interaction
- Creates energy and immediacy for both in-studio and at-home viewers
- Allows for real-time feedback on comedic material
- Can involve segments or Q&A sessions
- Requires hosts and performers to adapt to unexpected reactions
Recurring segments
- Regular features that become associated with the show
- Provide familiar touchpoints for viewers (Top Ten List, Carpool Karaoke)
- Allow for creative variations on established themes
- Often become cultural touchstones and generate catchphrases
Notable variety show hosts
- These hosts exemplify the skills and qualities needed to succeed in the variety show format
- Studying their styles and techniques provides valuable insights for TV writing students
- Each host brought unique elements to the variety show format, influencing its evolution
Ed Sullivan
- Hosted "The Show" from 1948 to 1971
- Known for his stiff demeanor and catchphrase "Really big shew"
- Introduced many iconic acts to American audiences (The Beatles, Elvis Presley)
- Emphasized diverse entertainment, from high culture to popular acts
- Played a crucial role in desegregating television by featuring African American performers
Carol Burnett
- Starred in "The Carol Burnett Show" from 1967 to 1978
- Pioneered as a female variety show host in a male-dominated field
- Known for her physical comedy and character work
- Featured recurring characters and sketches (Went with the Wind parody)
- Incorporated audience Q&A segments, showcasing her quick wit and improvisation skills
Dean Martin
- Hosted "" from 1965 to 1974
- Cultivated a laid-back, "cool" persona
- Known for his singing abilities and comedic timing
- Featured celebrity roasts as a popular segment
- Maintained an air of spontaneity and casual charm throughout his performances
Johnny Carson
- Hosted " Starring Johnny Carson" from 1962 to 1992
- Mastered the art of the monologue and celebrity interview
- Known for his quick wit and ability to recover from jokes that fell flat
- Developed recurring characters and bits (Carnac the Magnificent)
- Influenced the format of late-night talk shows for generations to come
Writing for variety shows
- Writing for variety shows requires a unique skill set that combines different forms of comedy and entertainment
- TV writing students must learn to adapt their writing style to fit the show's format and host's personality
- Understanding these techniques helps create cohesive and engaging variety show content
Monologue writing techniques
- Focus on current events and topical humor
- Craft short, punchy jokes with clear setups and punchlines
- Tailor material to the host's delivery style and comedic strengths
- Incorporate callbacks and running gags throughout the monologue
- Balance political satire with lighter, more universal humor
Sketch comedy development
- Generate diverse ideas through brainstorming sessions and writers' room collaboration
- Create well-defined characters with clear motivations and quirks
- Develop strong premises that can sustain a full sketch
- Write tight, focused scenes with clear beginnings, middles, and ends
- Incorporate visual gags and physical comedy to complement dialogue
Adapting to host's style
- Study the host's comedic timing and delivery
- Write in the host's voice, considering their speech patterns and vocabulary
- Play to the host's strengths (improvisation, physical comedy, singing)
- Develop recurring bits or characters that showcase the host's unique talents
- Collaborate closely with the host to refine and personalize material
Topical vs evergreen content
- Balance timely, news-based material with more universal themes
- Create topical content that remains relevant throughout the week of airing
- Develop evergreen sketches and bits that can be repeated or repurposed
- Adapt quickly to breaking news and last-minute changes
- Maintain a mix of content to appeal to different audience segments
Production aspects
- Understanding production elements is crucial for TV writing students to create content that works within practical constraints
- These aspects influence the writing process and shape the final product seen by viewers
- Familiarity with production considerations helps writers craft more effective and realizable content
Set design and staging
- Creates visual identity and atmosphere for the show
- Incorporates multiple areas for different segments (interview area, performance space)
- Allows for quick transitions between segments
- Considers camera angles and audience sightlines
- May include special features for recurring bits or segments
Musical direction
- Selects and arranges music for the show's house band
- Coordinates with guest musical acts for performances
- Provides musical cues and transitions between segments
- Collaborates with writers on original songs or parodies
- Adapts to last-minute changes or improvisations during live shows
Costume and makeup
- Designs looks for hosts, regular cast members, and guests
- Creates costumes for sketch characters and musical performances
- Adapts to quick changes required between segments
- Considers how costumes and makeup appear on camera
- Collaborates with writers to bring sketch characters to life visually
Live vs taped performances
- Live shows offer immediacy and spontaneity but require precise timing
- Taped shows allow for multiple takes and post-production editing
- Live-to-tape format combines elements of both approaches
- Writers must consider the format when crafting material (allowing for audience reactions in live shows)
- Production schedule influences writing deadlines and revision processes
Impact on popular culture
- Variety shows have significantly shaped entertainment and popular culture
- TV writing students should understand this impact to appreciate the genre's importance
- Recognizing these influences helps writers create content that resonates with audiences
Star-making power
- Launched careers of numerous comedians, actors, and musicians
- Provided platform for unknown talents to gain national exposure
- Created overnight sensations through memorable performances (Beatles on Ed Sullivan)
- Established reputations of hosts as influential tastemakers
- Continues to influence modern talent discovery shows
Influence on music industry
- Offered crucial exposure for new artists and songs
- Shaped music trends by featuring certain genres or styles
- Created iconic musical moments (Elvis Presley's hip movements)
- Provided platform for cross-genre collaborations and unique performances
- Influenced development of music videos and visual presentations of music
Social commentary through comedy
- Addressed current events and social issues through satire and parody
- Pushed boundaries of acceptable content on television
- Reflected and sometimes challenged societal norms
- Provided platform for diverse voices and perspectives
- Used humor to make difficult topics more accessible to wide audiences
Catchphrases and cultural references
- Generated memorable lines and characters that entered popular lexicon
- Created shared cultural touchstones across diverse audiences
- Influenced language and slang usage
- Spawned merchandise and spin-off products
- Continue to be referenced and parodied in modern media
Modern interpretations
- Contemporary shows adapt variety show elements to suit current audience preferences
- Understanding these modern formats helps TV writing students stay relevant in the industry
- These interpretations demonstrate the enduring appeal of variety show concepts
Late-night talk shows
- Evolved from traditional variety show format
- Retain elements like monologues, musical guests, and comedy sketches
- Focus more heavily on celebrity interviews and topical humor
- Incorporate social media and viral content into their structure
- Examples include "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" and "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"
Sketch comedy programs
- Specialize in comedy sketches, often with recurring characters
- May include musical performances or celebrity cameos
- Typically feature ensemble casts rather than a single host
- Examples include "" and "Key & Peele"
- Often serve as launching pads for comedic actors and writers
Reality talent competitions
- Incorporate variety show elements like musical performances and celebrity judges
- Feature amateur contestants showcasing various talents
- Include audience voting and participation
- Examples include "America's Got Talent" and "The Voice"
- Combine elements of competition with entertainment spectacle
Online variety content
- Adapts variety show concepts for digital platforms
- Includes web series, YouTube channels, and streaming shows
- Often focuses on niche interests or specific demographics
- Allows for more experimental formats and content
- Examples include "Between Two Ferns" and various late-night show YouTube channels
Challenges and considerations
- TV writing students must be aware of these challenges to create successful variety show content
- Understanding these considerations helps writers adapt to changing industry demands
- Addressing these challenges requires creativity and flexibility in the writing process
Balancing diverse content
- Maintaining coherent flow between different types of segments
- Ensuring appeal to various audience demographics within a single show
- Integrating topical content with more timeless material
- Balancing comedy, music, and interview segments effectively
- Adapting content to fit time constraints while maintaining quality
Appealing to broad audiences
- Creating content that resonates across different age groups and backgrounds
- Navigating cultural sensitivities and avoiding offensive material
- Staying relevant to younger viewers while retaining older audience members
- Competing with niche programming that targets specific demographics
- Balancing mass appeal with unique, distinctive content
Keeping format fresh
- Innovating within the established variety show structure
- Developing new segments and recurring bits to maintain audience interest
- Incorporating current trends and pop culture references
- Adapting to changing viewer habits and attention spans
- Utilizing new technologies and platforms to enhance the viewing experience
Competing with niche programming
- Standing out in a crowded media landscape
- Offering unique content not available on specialized channels
- Leveraging the variety format to provide diverse entertainment options
- Attracting high-profile guests and performers to boost appeal
- Utilizing cross-promotion and social media to build audience engagement
Legacy and influence
- The legacy of variety shows continues to shape modern television
- TV writing students should recognize this influence to inform their own work
- Understanding this legacy helps writers appreciate the historical context of their craft
Variety show elements in modern TV
- Late-night talk shows incorporating musical performances and sketches
- Reality competition shows featuring diverse talents and celebrity judges
- Comedy programs using variety show structures for special episodes
- News programs adopting elements of entertainment and humor
- Streaming platforms experimenting with variety-style content
Nostalgia factor
- Enduring popularity of classic variety show clips and compilations
- Reunion specials and tributes to iconic variety shows
- Influence on retro-styled programming and period piece productions
- Continued relevance of variety show stars in popular culture
- Appreciation for the era's fashion, music, and cultural touchstones
Training ground for performers
- Variety shows launched careers of numerous comedians, actors, and musicians
- Provided platform for developing and showcasing diverse talents
- Offered opportunities for performers to try different styles and genres
- Influenced development of improv and training programs
- Continues to inspire modern talent competition shows and platforms
Influence on comedy writing
- Established techniques for writing topical humor and monologues
- Developed formats for sketch comedy and recurring characters
- Influenced pacing and structure of modern comedy programs
- Created template for blending different types of humor within a single show
- Continues to inspire writers in crafting multi-faceted entertainment content
Key Terms to Review (34)
Audience Participation: Audience participation refers to the active involvement of viewers or listeners in a performance or broadcast, allowing them to interact and engage with the content. This interaction can take many forms, such as voting, calling in, or contributing ideas, which enhances the entertainment experience and creates a sense of community among participants. It plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of the show and can often influence the outcome of competitions or discussions featured in various formats.
Call-in segments: Call-in segments are interactive portions of a show where viewers or listeners can engage by phoning in to share their opinions, ask questions, or participate in discussions. These segments enhance viewer engagement and create a sense of community, making audiences feel like they have a voice in the conversation. They are commonly featured in formats that prioritize audience interaction, which is key to the dynamic nature of both talk shows and variety shows.
CBS: CBS, or Columbia Broadcasting System, is a major American television network that has played a significant role in the development and popularity of variety shows. Since its founding in 1927, CBS has been home to many iconic programs, contributing to the evolution of entertainment formats and styles in the broadcasting industry. The network's programming has included a mix of comedy, music, and talent showcases that define the essence of variety shows.
Celebrity guests: Celebrity guests refer to well-known public figures who appear on variety shows to entertain, engage, or promote their projects. Their presence adds excitement and star power, often increasing viewer interest and ratings. These guests can participate in interviews, performances, or comedic skits, which help create a dynamic atmosphere that is central to the appeal of variety shows.
Comedy sketches: Comedy sketches are short, humorous performances or scenes that focus on a specific idea, character, or situation, often featuring exaggerated comedic elements. These sketches are typically performed by a group of actors and can be standalone pieces or part of a larger show. They rely on timing, clever writing, and physical comedy to engage the audience and elicit laughter.
Costume and makeup: Costume and makeup refer to the design and application of clothing and cosmetics that define a character's appearance in a performance or production. In variety shows, these elements play a vital role in creating memorable characters, enhancing visual storytelling, and establishing the tone of the performance. Costumes and makeup help performers connect with the audience by visually communicating traits, emotions, and settings.
Crossover episode: A crossover episode is a special television episode where characters or storylines from two or more different series come together, creating a shared narrative experience. This type of episode allows for unique interactions between characters that typically do not share the same screen, often leading to surprising developments and fan excitement. Crossover episodes can enhance storytelling by connecting different universes, generating buzz, and increasing viewership across multiple shows.
Ed Sullivan: Ed Sullivan was a prominent American television host and producer, best known for his variety show, 'The Ed Sullivan Show,' which aired from 1948 to 1971. This program became a significant platform for a wide range of entertainment acts, showcasing music, comedy, and theatrical performances, thus influencing the landscape of variety shows in television history. Sullivan's knack for discovering and promoting talent made his show a cultural phenomenon, contributing to the careers of numerous famous artists.
Guest interviews: Guest interviews are segments in various media formats where a host converses with a guest, often a celebrity or expert, to engage the audience and provide insights on a particular topic. These interviews typically blend entertainment with information, showcasing the personality of the guest while also allowing for deeper exploration of their work, experiences, or opinions. In the context of variety shows, guest interviews are crucial as they create dynamic interactions that enhance the overall entertainment value of the program.
Guest performers: Guest performers are artists or entertainers who appear on a show for a limited time, often to showcase their talents or promote their work. In the context of variety shows, these performers bring unique acts that enhance the overall entertainment value, create excitement, and attract diverse audiences. Their presence can include music, comedy, dance, or other art forms, contributing to the dynamic and eclectic nature of variety programming.
Host's role and personality: The host's role and personality in variety shows is crucial as they serve as the central figure who guides the audience through the program. They establish the tone and energy of the show, connecting with both the guests and the viewers at home. The host's charisma, humor, and authenticity can significantly enhance the show's appeal, making them a key element in engaging the audience and driving the overall entertainment value.
Johnny Carson: Johnny Carson was a legendary American television host, comedian, and writer best known for his role as the host of 'The Tonight Show' from 1962 to 1992. His charismatic personality and quick wit helped redefine the late-night talk show format, making it a staple of American television. Carson's influence extended beyond just entertainment; he became a cultural icon who shaped the landscape of variety and talk shows, setting standards that many hosts would aspire to replicate.
Live audience: A live audience refers to a group of people who attend a television production in person, contributing to the atmosphere and energy of the show. The presence of a live audience can significantly influence the performance, creating a unique interaction between the hosts, performers, and viewers at home. This element adds a layer of spontaneity and authenticity to shows, making them more engaging and dynamic.
Live audience interaction: Live audience interaction refers to the direct engagement and participation of an audience during a live performance or broadcast, creating a dynamic relationship between the performers and viewers. This concept is crucial in entertainment formats where audience reactions can influence the show's content, pacing, and overall experience. It enhances viewer engagement and can lead to spontaneous moments that make a performance memorable and unique.
Live vs Taped Performances: Live performances are events that are broadcast in real-time, allowing for immediate interaction and response from the audience, while taped performances are pre-recorded and edited before being aired. This distinction influences how shows engage their audiences, manage production quality, and deal with potential mishaps or technical difficulties.
Musical direction: Musical direction refers to the guidance and interpretation of musical performances, focusing on aspects like tempo, dynamics, and expression. In the context of variety shows, musical direction plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the performances, influencing how the audience experiences the music and its integration with other elements of the show. It often involves collaboration with performers, composers, and arrangers to create a cohesive and engaging production.
Musical performances: Musical performances refer to live presentations of music that can encompass a wide variety of genres and formats, often involving singers, musicians, and dancers. In the context of entertainment, these performances are integral to engaging audiences and creating a vibrant atmosphere, especially in variety shows, where they serve to showcase diverse talent and provide entertainment across different styles. The combination of music with visual elements can elevate the overall experience for viewers, making it a critical component of the format.
Musical variety show: A musical variety show is a television program format that combines various forms of entertainment, including music performances, comedy skits, dance routines, and guest appearances. This type of show is designed to appeal to a broad audience by providing diverse content within a single episode, often featuring popular artists and celebrities. Musical variety shows create a dynamic atmosphere that engages viewers through a mix of live performances and lighthearted segments.
NBC: NBC, or the National Broadcasting Company, is one of the major television networks in the United States, founded in 1926. It has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American broadcasting, particularly through its variety shows, which showcase a mix of entertainment formats including comedy, music, and performance. NBC's variety shows have historically been significant in creating iconic television moments and have influenced the evolution of television programming.
Opening monologue: An opening monologue is a key component of variety shows, serving as the initial segment where a host delivers a scripted speech, often filled with humor, commentary, or observations relevant to the audience and current events. This segment sets the tone for the entire show, engaging viewers right from the start and establishing the host's personality. It typically blends entertainment with topical references, helping to connect with the audience and draw them into the show's theme.
Recurring segments: Recurring segments are specific, consistent features or elements within a show that appear regularly across episodes. These segments can include skits, games, musical performances, or interviews, and they contribute to the overall structure and appeal of a program. By providing familiar content, recurring segments help to engage audiences and create a sense of continuity throughout a show's run.
Revival: Revival refers to the process of bringing back a previously popular television show, often with new episodes or updates, in order to engage both existing fans and new audiences. This phenomenon can breathe new life into classic series, allowing for modern storytelling techniques and contemporary themes, while maintaining the essence of what made the original show beloved. Revivals can also take the form of special events, like reunion shows or limited series, that celebrate the legacy of a program and introduce it to a new generation.
Saturday Night Live: Saturday Night Live (SNL) is a live television variety show that has been airing since 1975, known for its unique blend of comedy sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guest appearances. The show has become a cultural icon, often satirizing current events and popular culture through its comedic lens, and has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of American television variety shows.
Segment Producer: A segment producer is a television professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating specific segments of a show, particularly in variety formats. They play a crucial role in developing content, managing logistics, and ensuring that each segment aligns with the overall vision of the program, contributing to its entertainment value and flow. This position requires strong collaboration skills, as segment producers work closely with writers, directors, and talent to bring ideas to life.
Set Design and Staging: Set design and staging refer to the art and process of creating physical environments for performances, including television shows, to enhance storytelling and engage the audience visually. It involves selecting and arranging props, furniture, and background elements in a way that supports the narrative, conveys the right mood, and reflects the characters’ personalities. Effective set design is crucial in variety shows as it sets the tone for various segments and performances, making it essential for creating an immersive experience for viewers.
Showrunner: A showrunner is the individual responsible for the overall creative direction, management, and production of a television series. They serve as the chief decision-maker, overseeing writing, production, and post-production processes, while also maintaining the show's vision and continuity.
Sketch comedy: Sketch comedy is a style of humor that features short, comedic scenes or vignettes, typically performed by a group of actors. These sketches often parody everyday life, cultural norms, or current events, using exaggeration and absurdity to entertain the audience. The format allows for quick transitions between different comedic ideas, making it a popular choice in various performance settings, including live shows and television programs.
Stand-up comedy: Stand-up comedy is a comedic performance where a comedian speaks directly to an audience, delivering jokes, stories, and observations, often drawing from personal experiences or current events. This format allows for a direct connection with the audience and relies heavily on timing, delivery, and the performer's charisma. It's a key component of variety shows, where it can serve as both a central feature and a transitional act between other forms of entertainment.
The Carol Burnett Show: The Carol Burnett Show was a groundbreaking variety television program that aired from 1967 to 1978, showcasing the talents of comedian Carol Burnett and her ensemble cast. The show combined comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest appearances, creating a unique format that blended humor with heartfelt moments. It became a cultural touchstone for its innovative approach to sketch comedy and its ability to address contemporary social issues with wit and charm.
The Dean Martin Show: The Dean Martin Show was a popular television variety show that aired from 1965 to 1974, featuring comedian and singer Dean Martin as the host. The show became famous for its relaxed atmosphere, musical performances, and celebrity guest appearances, embodying the classic variety show format while also presenting comedy sketches and skits that highlighted Martin's charm and humor. This program is significant as it reflects the evolution of variety shows during a time when television was rapidly growing in popularity and diversity.
The Ed Sullivan Show: The Ed Sullivan Show was a popular television variety show that aired from 1948 to 1971, showcasing a mix of musical performances, comedy sketches, and variety acts. It became a cultural phenomenon in the United States, influencing the landscape of entertainment and serving as a platform for many famous artists, including The Beatles and Elvis Presley. The show exemplified the variety show format, blending different types of performances to cater to a broad audience.
The Tonight Show: The Tonight Show is a long-running late-night television talk show that features celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances. It serves as a quintessential example of the talk show genre, blending elements of entertainment and variety to engage a wide audience. The show's format includes a monologue, guest interviews, and recurring segments, making it a staple in American pop culture and television history.
Topical vs Evergreen Content: Topical content refers to material that is focused on current events, trends, or issues that are relevant at a specific moment in time. In contrast, evergreen content is designed to remain relevant and useful over a long period, providing consistent value regardless of when it's accessed. This distinction is crucial for content strategy as it influences audience engagement and the longevity of a show's relevance.
Variety Shows: Variety shows are television programs that feature a mix of different entertainment segments, including music, comedy, dance, and often guest appearances. These shows aim to provide a broad range of entertainment within a single broadcast, appealing to diverse audiences and often featuring recurring segments or themes. This format has roots in vaudeville and live performances, allowing for an engaging and dynamic viewing experience.