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Show Boat opens on Broadway
Show Boat, written by Oscar Hammerstein II, revolutionized the musical theatre genre. Up to this point, most American musical theatre consisted of operettas and musical revues. People were attracted to the more elaborate plot and new music stylings. Popular songs from this show include "Old Man River" and "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man." -
The Golden Age of Broadway Begins with Oklahoma
The famous duo Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein II wrote their first collaboration together, Oklahoma. This musical fully integrated song, dance, and acting to create a cohesive and interesting show for American audiences. This show began the Golden Age of Broadway, which lasted through the 1960s. -
The Rock Musical is Born
Hair: The Tribal Love-Rock Musical, written by James Rado, Gerome Ragni, and Gail MacDermot, made way for the new genre of Broadway: the rock musical. Rock musicals, also commonly known as rock operas, emphasize a different style of singing than the original Broadway belt style. Hair caused a lot of controversy with it's nude scenes, racially integrated cast, and inviting the audience onstage for the finale. -
La Cage Aux Folles Opens Doors for New Culture
La Cage Aux Folles was a bit outlandish when it first came to the Broadway stage. Based off of the movie "The Birdcage," the show was the first to feature to homosexual male leading characters. A majority of the ensemble (both male and female) is dressed in drag. The famous tune "I Am What I Am" comes from this production. -
Disney Makes Its Mark in New York
Following the 1991 premiere of Disney film "Beauty and the Beast," the music and plot resonated with audiences, prompting the company to invest in making a stage adaptation of the movie. It ran for 5,461 productions before its close in 2007. This was Disney's first investment in creating Broadway productions of its shows. -
Hamilton Brings New Life to Musical Theatre
Lin Manuel-Miranda completely changed modern musical theatre with his take on founding father Alexander Hamilton's life. Most of the music in the show is rapped, introducing a younger generation to the art form. Hamilton won 11 Tony Awards, setting a new standard for future Broadway hits.