VAUDEVILLE THEATERS Meaning and
Definition
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Vaudeville theaters, also known as variety theaters, were a popular form of live entertainment during the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States and Europe. These establishments were specifically designed to showcase a diverse range of acts, offering a mixture of comedy, music, dance, acrobatics, magic, and even animal acts. The term "vaudeville" comes from the French word "vaudevire," which means "satirical comedy."
In the vaudeville tradition, performers would often appear on stage in a series of unrelated sketches, songs, and routines, typically lasting around 10-20 minutes each. These theaters became known for their continuous and fast-paced format, with multiple acts performing one after another, striving to captivate audiences and maintain their attention throughout the show.
Vaudeville theaters played a crucial role in the development and popularization of a wide range of entertainment forms, including burlesque, circus, slapstick comedy, and minstrelsy. They provided a platform for both seasoned professionals and up-and-coming performers, fostering talent and serving as a training ground for many future stars of stage and screen.
However, with the rise of film and radio in the 1920s, vaudeville theaters began to lose their prominence, eventually declining and disappearing altogether. Nevertheless, they left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, shaping the way live performances were structured and influencing the development of modern comedic and variety shows. Today, the legacy of vaudeville theaters can still be seen in the enduring popularity of variety acts, as well as in the design and programming of modern-day theaters and performance venues.
Common Misspellings for VAUDEVILLE THEATERS
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Etymology of VAUDEVILLE THEATERS
The word "vaudeville" originates from the French phrase "vaux de ville", which means "songs of the city". It emerged during the late 18th century in France, referring to satirical songs or light poetry that were often performed in the cafés and taverns of Paris. As this form of entertainment grew in popularity, it evolved into a variety show that incorporated a range of acts such as comedy sketches, acrobatics, magic tricks, dancing, and musical performances. Vaudeville theaters began to appear in the United States in the mid-19th century, importing the concept from Europe. The term "vaudeville" was adopted to describe these theaters and the performances they hosted. Throughout the years, vaudeville theaters played a significant role in popular entertainment, paving the way for modern forms of variety shows and comedies.
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