George M. Cohan

Definition

George M. Cohan was an influential American playwright, composer, and actor known for his pivotal role in the development of musical theatre in the early 20th century. He is often referred to as the 'Father of American Musical Comedy' due to his innovative contributions, which included blending songs, dances, and dialogue into a cohesive theatrical experience. Cohan's works celebrated American themes and patriotism, significantly shaping the identity of musical theatre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cohan was born on July 3, 1878, in Providence, Rhode Island, to parents who were both involved in the entertainment industry, which influenced his early exposure to performance.
2. His famous songs include 'Yankee Doodle Boy' and 'Over There,' which became anthems during World War I and highlighted his ability to connect with American audiences.
3. Cohan was one of the first performers to write and produce his own shows, which helped establish the model for modern musical theatre production.
4. He received a special Tony Award in 1949 for his contributions to American theatre, recognizing his lasting impact on the industry.
5. Cohan's signature style often incorporated upbeat melodies and strong rhythms, emphasizing a distinctly American sound that resonated with audiences of his time.

Review Questions

• How did George M. Cohan's work influence the development of musical theatre?
  • George M. Cohan's work significantly shaped musical theatre by blending songs, dances, and dialogue into a seamless narrative structure. His approach set the standard for future musicals by emphasizing the importance of integrating all elements of a production. Cohan's focus on American themes and patriotic sentiment also resonated with audiences, helping to establish a uniquely American style that defined early musical comedy.
• Discuss how Cohan's background in vaudeville contributed to his success as a playwright and composer.
  • Cohan's background in vaudeville provided him with a diverse skill set that included acting, singing, dancing, and writing. This experience allowed him to understand audience engagement and entertainment dynamics effectively. His ability to craft engaging performances drew from the variety format of vaudeville, where different acts were combined into one show. This knowledge played a crucial role in developing the musical comedy genre as he began to create cohesive narratives that appealed to broad audiences.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of Cohan's works during World War I and their impact on American identity.
  • George M. Cohan's works during World War I had profound cultural significance as they reinforced themes of patriotism and national pride at a time when America was mobilizing for war. Songs like 'Over There' served not only as morale boosters but also as rallying cries for enlistment, thereby cementing Cohan's role as a voice of American sentiment. His ability to capture the spirit of the era helped shape a collective national identity during a pivotal moment in history, demonstrating how art can influence social attitudes and values.

Related terms

Musical Comedy: A genre of theatrical performance that combines music, songs, and dance with a light-hearted story, often featuring humorous elements and lively characters.

Vaudeville: A theatrical variety show popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, showcasing a mix of specialty acts including comedians, musicians, dancers, and other performers.

Broadway: The street in New York City known for its many theatres that produce high-quality performances, particularly musicals, and plays that have significant cultural impact.