Vaudeville

Definition

Vaudeville was a theatrical variety show popular in the United States from the late 19th to the early 20th century, featuring a mix of specialty acts including musicians, dancers, comedians, and other performers. This form of entertainment played a significant role in the development of African American musical traditions, as it provided a platform for black performers to showcase their talents in an era of segregation and limited opportunities. Vaudeville not only influenced the styles of performance that emerged from these communities but also contributed to the broader acceptance of African American music and culture in mainstream entertainment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vaudeville shows were known for their diverse range of acts, often including singers, dancers, jugglers, magicians, and comedians, which allowed for a dynamic experience.
2. Many African American artists gained recognition through vaudeville stages, with notable figures like Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson and Louis Armstrong performing in these venues.
3. The decline of vaudeville began in the 1930s as movie theaters started to dominate entertainment, leading to a shift in how live performance was consumed.
4. Vaudeville contributed to the popularization of jazz music by providing a platform for its early performers and helping to merge it with other musical styles.
5. Although vaudeville was criticized for reinforcing racial stereotypes at times, it also served as a crucial space for African American musicians to challenge these narratives and gain visibility.

Review Questions

• How did vaudeville provide opportunities for African American performers during its peak?
  • Vaudeville offered African American performers a rare chance to showcase their talents in a predominantly white entertainment industry. With its diverse lineup of acts, vaudeville allowed black artists to reach wider audiences and gain recognition. While many faced racial discrimination both on and off stage, the exposure provided by vaudeville helped launch the careers of many prominent African American entertainers.
• In what ways did vaudeville influence the evolution of jazz music during its popularity?
  • Vaudeville played a significant role in shaping jazz music by creating opportunities for jazz musicians to perform in front of diverse audiences. The combination of various musical styles showcased in vaudeville allowed jazz to evolve as artists experimented with improvisation and incorporated elements from other genres. This exposure helped establish jazz as a vital part of American culture and led to its growth into a dominant musical force.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of vaudeville on contemporary performance arts and African American music.
  • Vaudeville's legacy can be seen today in various forms of entertainment, including stand-up comedy, musical theater, and variety shows. Its influence on African American music remains evident as artists continue to draw inspiration from its blend of performance styles. The challenges faced by performers within vaudeville set the stage for future generations to advocate for greater representation and equality in the arts, shaping how contemporary performance engages with cultural narratives.

Related terms

Minstrel Shows: A form of entertainment that involved white performers in blackface presenting songs, dances, and comic skits, often perpetuating racial stereotypes.

Burlesque: A theatrical variety show that parodied serious works and featured bawdy humor and striptease acts, evolving from vaudeville's format.

Jazz:

A genre of music that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans, combining elements of blues, ragtime, and improvisation, and later heavily influenced by vaudeville performances.