George M. Cohan

Definition

George M. Cohan was an influential American composer, lyricist, actor, and producer, often referred to as the 'Father of American Musical Comedy.' His works integrated the vaudeville style with the emerging form of musical theater, reflecting the cultural landscape of the early 20th century and embodying the spirit of patriotism during World War I.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. George M. Cohan was born on July 3, 1878, in Providence, Rhode Island, and grew up in a family of entertainers involved in vaudeville.
2. He wrote and starred in several successful musicals, including 'Little Johnny Jones' and 'Yankee Doodle Dandy,' showcasing his ability to blend comedy with music.
3. Cohan was one of the first artists to use the concept of a 'book musical,' which integrates songs into a cohesive narrative structure.
4. He received the first-ever Tony Award for Best Author of a Musical posthumously in 1948 for his contributions to theater.
5. Cohan's legacy extends beyond his own works; his style influenced countless composers and lyricists who followed in the development of American musical theater.

Review Questions

• How did George M. Cohan's background in vaudeville influence his contributions to musical theater?
  • George M. Cohan's upbringing in a family of vaudeville performers greatly shaped his approach to musical theater. His experiences on stage helped him understand the importance of entertainment value, humor, and audience engagement. This background allowed him to incorporate various elements from vaudeville into his musicals, creating shows that were dynamic and appealing to a wide audience, thus establishing a new direction for American musical comedy.
• Discuss the impact of George M. Cohan's patriotic songs on American culture during World War I.
  • Cohan's patriotic songs, particularly 'You're a Grand Old Flag,' played a significant role in fostering national pride during World War I. His music resonated with audiences who sought solace and unity during turbulent times. By creating catchy tunes that celebrated American values and identity, Cohan effectively contributed to the war effort by boosting morale and encouraging patriotism among civilians and soldiers alike.
• Evaluate George M. Cohan's lasting influence on modern musical theater and how his innovations paved the way for future productions.
  • George M. Cohan's influence on modern musical theater is profound due to his pioneering work in developing the book musical format and integrating songs seamlessly into storytelling. His innovative approach laid the groundwork for future composers and lyricists to create more cohesive narratives within musicals. The blend of comedy, dance, and music that he championed continues to resonate in contemporary productions, demonstrating that his contributions are foundational to the evolution of American theater.

Related terms

Vaudeville: A theatrical variety show that became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring a mix of specialty acts such as comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians.

Broadway: The famous theater district in New York City known for its professional theatrical productions, where many of Cohan's works were performed and which became synonymous with American musical theater.

Patriotic Songs: Songs that express love for one's country and often serve to inspire national pride; Cohan is well-known for composing several iconic patriotic songs, including 'You're a Grand Old Flag.'