Question

Musical theatre: Though modern musical theatre has antecedents in forms such as European operetta, it is largely a product of American talent and creativity

A) True
B) False

Answer 1

Modern musical theatre is largely a product of American talent and creativity, with its roots in forms like vaudeville and minstrel shows. Landmark shows and performers have shaped the American style of musical theatre, making it an influential and popular genre on the global stage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks whether modern musical theatre is largely a product of American talent and creativity. This statement is true. The contemporary productions on Broadway and the West End reflect a history of American innovation in musical theatre.

The genre draws from earlier forms such as European operetta, but the American contribution cannot be understated.

Early forms like minstrel shows and vaudeville evolved into the modern musical theatre that we know today, with landmark productions like The Black Crook in 1866 and the works of influential African American performers such as Bert Williams who starred in the first all-black musical on a major Broadway stage, In Dahomey.

Modern musical theatre includes a mix of singing, dancing, and acting, creating a unique art form that entices audiences with its spectacle and catchy tunes. While other countries have their own forms of musical theatre, the American style represented by Broadway has a significant impact on the global theatre scene.

The success of musical theatre, reflected in both local and international tourism, is testament to the enduring popularity and the American influence on this vibrant art form.

Answer 2

The statement"Musical theatre: Though modern musical theatre has antecedents in forms such as European operetta, it is largely a product of American talent and creativity" is true. The correct answer is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

Modern musical theatre has deep roots in various performance forms, including European operetta, but it predominantly evolved and thrived in the United States, showcasing American talent, innovation, and creativity.

While European operetta contributed to the development of musical theatre with its use of music, song, and storytelling, the modern musical theatre as we know it today flourished largely due to American contributions.

In the early 20th century, American musicals began integrating elements of storytelling, dance, music, and lyrics in ways that became distinctively American. Productions like "Show Boat" and later, the works of composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Richard Rodgers, among others, established the framework for what we now recognize as the American musical theatre tradition.

These productions reflected American cultural values, social issues, and often featured uniquely American styles of music like jazz and blues. Over time, this form of entertainment became synonymous with American Broadway productions, solidifying its place as a product of American talent and creativity. The correct answer is A.