9.3 Performance Styles of the Golden Age
2 min read•july 23, 2024
Golden Age musicals were a spectacle of performance styles. From presentational acting to tap, , and , these shows demanded versatile performers. The era's stars, like and , set the bar high with their triple-threat talents.
Actors in these musicals had to master , seamless integration of skills, and high energy. They brought characters to life through exaggerated gestures and facial expressions, all while singing and dancing their hearts out. It was a golden age indeed for musical theater performance.
Performance Styles in Golden Age Musicals
Acting techniques in Golden Age musicals
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- involves directly addressing the audience and using exaggerated gestures and facial expressions to convey emotions and character traits
- Clear diction and projection ensure that dialogue and lyrics are easily understood by the audience, even in large theaters without amplification
- Actors seamlessly integrate their acting with singing and dancing, creating a cohesive performance that tells the story through multiple mediums
Dance styles of Golden Age musicals
- , a rhythmic and percussive style, emphasizes precision, speed, and syncopation, often featured in upbeat, show-stopping numbers (42nd Street)
- Ballet, a classical dance style, emphasizes grace, fluidity, and technical proficiency, frequently used in romantic or dream-like sequences (Oklahoma!)
- Jazz dance incorporates elements of African-American dance and is characterized by its energetic and expressive nature, often used in ensemble numbers and solo features (West Side Story)
- styles, such as waltz, foxtrot, and tango, are used in romantic duets and large-scale production numbers (The King and I)
Role of triple threat performers
- are equally skilled in acting, singing, and dancing, making them essential for leading roles in Golden Age musicals
- Performers faced rigorous rehearsal schedules and extensive vocal and dance training to meet the demands of their roles
- Maintaining high energy and stamina throughout performances was crucial, as was the versatility to adapt to different styles and genres
- Iconic triple threat performers of the era include Ethel Merman, Gene Kelly, , and
Key performers and their contributions
- Ethel Merman, known for her powerful belting voice and comedic timing, originated roles in musicals such as , , and Gypsy
- Gene Kelly, celebrated for his athletic dance style and innovative choreography, starred in productions like , , and
- Fred Astaire, renowned for his elegance, grace, and precision in dance, featured in musicals like , , and
- Gwen Verdon, acclaimed for her versatility as a dancer and actress, originated roles in , , and
- , known for her warm, expressive voice and charming stage presence, starred in , , and
Key Terms to Review (26)
Annie Get Your Gun: Annie Get Your Gun is a musical that premiered in 1946, featuring music and lyrics by Irving Berlin and a book by Dorothy Fields and Herbert Fields. It tells the story of Annie Oakley, a sharpshooter who becomes a star performer in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, while also exploring themes of love, competition, and gender roles. The show is notable for its catchy songs and vibrant performances that capture the spirit of the Golden Age of American musical theater.
Ballet: Ballet is a highly technical form of dance that originated during the Italian Renaissance and has evolved into a distinct style characterized by its grace, precision, and expressive movements. It plays a crucial role in musical theater, as it combines storytelling with physicality, enhancing character development and overall performance.
Ballroom dance: Ballroom dance is a group of partner dances that are enjoyed both socially and competitively, characterized by smooth movements, precise footwork, and a strong emphasis on posture and frame. These dances typically include styles such as the waltz, tango, foxtrot, and cha-cha, and they played a significant role in the performance styles during a transformative era in musical theater history.
Can-can: The can-can is a high-energy, physically demanding dance characterized by lively music and a series of high kicks performed by a chorus line. This dance became emblematic of the vibrant nightlife in Paris during the late 19th century and was often featured in musical performances that highlighted both humor and exuberance.
Clear diction: Clear diction refers to the precise and articulate pronunciation of words and sounds in speech or performance, ensuring that the audience can easily understand the dialogue or lyrics being delivered. This concept is essential in musical theater, as it enhances the storytelling by allowing the emotions and intentions of the characters to come through without confusion or misinterpretation.
Damn Yankees: Damn Yankees is a classic American musical that premiered on Broadway in 1955, blending comedy, fantasy, and baseball themes. The story follows a middle-aged man who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for youth and the chance to help his beloved baseball team win the pennant. This musical is significant in the context of its performance style during the Golden Age, showcasing a mix of traditional musical theater with elements of Americana.
Ethel Merman: Ethel Merman was an iconic American singer and actress, known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, making her a defining figure in musical theater during the Golden Age. Her performances in Broadway musicals such as 'Annie Get Your Gun' and 'Anything Goes' showcased her remarkable vocal talent and solidified her status as a legend in the field. Merman's influence on the genre reflects broader cultural trends and shifts during her time, especially in terms of performance style and the evolution of Broadway musicals.
Fred Astaire: Fred Astaire was an iconic American dancer, singer, and actor, known for his revolutionary contributions to dance in film and theater during the early to mid-20th century. His unique style blended elegance, athleticism, and charisma, making him a central figure in the performance styles of the Golden Age. Astaire's innovative choreography and groundbreaking techniques elevated dance on screen, setting new standards for musical performances.
Funny Face: In the context of musical theater, 'Funny Face' refers to a style and concept that blends physical comedy, exaggerated expressions, and a playful approach to performance. This style is characterized by its ability to evoke laughter and engage the audience through the use of quirky, whimsical characters and scenarios, often drawing on a blend of humor and charm that defined many performances during the Golden Age of musical theater.
Gene Kelly: Gene Kelly was a prominent American actor, dancer, and choreographer known for his energetic and innovative contributions to musical theater and film, particularly during the Golden Age of Hollywood. He is celebrated for blending dance with storytelling in films such as 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'An American in Paris', where his athletic style and charm revolutionized the representation of dance on screen and set new standards for performance.
Girl crazy: Girl crazy refers to a theatrical trope often found in musical theater, particularly during the Golden Age, where male characters exhibit an exaggerated infatuation with women. This concept highlights the comedic and often absurd lengths to which these characters will go in their pursuit of love, portraying a light-hearted and sometimes frantic approach to romance that reflects the era's cultural norms and entertainment styles.
Gwen Verdon: Gwen Verdon was a celebrated American actress, dancer, and singer known for her groundbreaking performances in musical theater during the Golden Age. Her work on Broadway set new standards for dance and character portrayal, making her an iconic figure of the era. Verdon's collaborations with choreographers like Bob Fosse significantly shaped the aesthetic of musical theater, combining technical precision with emotional depth in her performances.
Jazz dance: Jazz dance is a lively and energetic form of dance that incorporates elements of African American vernacular dance, ballet, and modern dance. This style is characterized by its improvisation, syncopated rhythms, and a strong focus on individual expression, making it integral to both performance and character portrayal. It plays a significant role in enhancing physicality and movement within character creation while also being a defining aspect of the performance styles that emerged during the Golden Age of musical theater.
Mary Martin: Mary Martin was a celebrated American actress and singer, renowned for her significant contributions to musical theater during the Golden Age. She became an iconic figure in the genre, known for her leading roles in groundbreaking productions that showcased her remarkable vocal talent and stage presence. Her performances were characterized by a unique blend of warmth, charisma, and vocal prowess, making her a beloved star of the era.
On the Town: On the Town is a classic musical created by Leonard Bernstein, Betty Comden, and Adolph Green, first performed in 1944. The show is set in New York City and follows three sailors on a 24-hour shore leave as they explore the city and search for romance. This musical is significant not only for its innovative use of jazz and classical elements but also for its reflection of the vibrant, post-war American culture that characterized the Golden Age of musical theater.
Pal Joey: Pal Joey is a musical that premiered in 1940, written by John O'Hara with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Lorenz Hart. The show focuses on the life of a New York City nightclub singer, Joey Evans, who is charming yet morally ambiguous, highlighting themes of ambition and the pursuit of success in the entertainment world. This musical is significant as it reflects the performance styles of the Golden Age, blending sophisticated lyrics with a jazzy score, capturing the essence of American nightlife during that era.
Peter Pan: Peter Pan is a fictional character created by J.M. Barrie, representing the spirit of eternal youth and adventure. In the context of performance styles during the Golden Age, Peter Pan symbolizes the blend of whimsical storytelling with musical theater elements, showcasing an imaginative world that captures both childlike wonder and the complexity of growing up.
Presentational style: Presentational style refers to a mode of performance where actors communicate directly with the audience, often breaking the fourth wall and engaging in exaggerated expressions, movements, and vocal techniques. This approach contrasts with representational style, where actors strive to create a more realistic portrayal of their characters. In the context of performance styles from a specific historical period, presentational style is characterized by its larger-than-life qualities and a focus on spectacle and entertainment.
Singin' in the rain: 'Singin' in the Rain' is a classic musical film released in 1952, known for its vibrant choreography, memorable songs, and its depiction of Hollywood's transition from silent films to talkies. The film captures the joy of performing and the challenges of adapting to technological changes, all set against a backdrop of delightful music and dance that defined the Golden Age of musical theater.
South Pacific: South Pacific is a renowned musical that premiered in 1949, created by Rodgers and Hammerstein. It is based on James A. Michener's book 'Tales of the South Pacific,' and it explores themes of love and prejudice against the backdrop of World War II in the South Pacific islands. This musical not only showcases the storytelling and emotional depth characteristic of the era but also reflects the cultural and historical context, performance styles, influential composers, and defining traits of Golden Age musicals.
Sweet Charity: Sweet Charity is a musical that was created by the legendary duo Neil Simon (book), Cy Coleman (music), and Dorothy Fields (lyrics). The story follows Charity Hope Valentine, a hopeless romantic and dance hall hostess, navigating her way through love and life's struggles in New York City during the 1960s. This musical is significant for its exploration of themes such as love, hope, and the pursuit of happiness, reflecting the performance styles and cultural landscape of the Golden Age of Musical Theater.
Tap dance: Tap dance is a rhythmic form of dance characterized by the use of metal-tipped shoes that create distinct sounds as the dancer strikes the floor. This dance style combines elements of jazz, African American dance traditions, and theatrical performance, emphasizing musicality and expressiveness in movement. Tap dance serves as a powerful tool for character creation, enabling performers to convey emotions and personality through their physical movements and footwork.
The band wagon: The band wagon refers to a popular trend or movement that encourages people to join in because many others are participating. In the context of performance styles during the Golden Age, this concept often applied to the way certain shows, themes, or performers gained immense popularity, prompting audiences and performers alike to embrace them simply because they were widely accepted and celebrated.
The Sound of Music: The Sound of Music is a beloved musical created by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, first performed in 1959. The show is set in Austria on the eve of World War II and follows the story of a young postulant named Maria, who becomes a governess for the seven children of Captain Georg von Trapp. This musical captures the essence of the Golden Age of Broadway through its memorable songs and strong character development, highlighting the importance of love, family, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Top Hat: A top hat is a tall, cylindrical hat with a wide brim, often associated with formal attire, particularly in the context of the performing arts. This iconic piece of headwear became synonymous with elegance and sophistication, especially during the Golden Age of Musical Theater, where it was frequently worn by leading performers and characterized an era of theatrical glamour.
Triple threat performers: Triple threat performers are artists who excel in three key disciplines: singing, acting, and dancing. This versatile skill set allows them to seamlessly integrate their talents on stage, making them highly sought after in musical theater and other performance arts. Mastery in these areas enables them to deliver captivating performances that engage audiences through a combination of vocal prowess, dramatic expression, and physical movement.