Early American Theatre

These flashcards cover key events, figures, and themes in the history of early American theatre as discussed in the lecture notes.

The Theatre of Neptune.

What was the first play performed on the North American continent?

1665.

In what year was 'Ye Bare and Ye Cubb' performed?

Williamsburg, VA.

Where did the first permanent theatre get built in 1716?

Issues with redcoats.

What event led to the ban of theatre by the Continental Congress in October 1774?

Royall Tyler, in 1787.

Who wrote 'The Contrast' and when was it performed?

It is the first native tragedy in American theatre.

What is significant about 'Andre' by William Dunlap?

Melodrama.

What genre of drama involves exaggerated situations and dramatic conflicts?

1815.

What year did Samuel Drake establish a circuit tour of frontier theatre?

They were floating theatres that traveled along rivers performing plays.

What was the significance of the showboats during the early 19th century?

It opened in 1835 in New Orleans and was notable for its gas lighting.

What was the St. Charles Theatre, and when did it open?

William Alexander Brown.

Who performed at the African Grove in New York?

Jim Crow.

What character did Thomas D. Rice popularize in 1828?

Act 1 and Act 2.

What are minstrel shows typically divided into?

Western expansion explosions in the 1840s.

What led theatre to 'follow the gold' during westward expansion?

Uncle Tom's Cabin.

What is the title of the most popular play in the 1850s?

They were initially performed in blackface, but some later included African-American actors.

How were early productions of Uncle Tom's Cabin portrayed in relation to blackface?

One of the best actors of the late 1800s.

Who is Edwin Booth?

Broad comedy that parodied other plays, people, or current events.

What type of comedy did burlesque feature?

He aimed to make burlesque family friendly.

What was Tony Pastor's contribution to vaudeville in the 1880s?

A combination of variety acts, sketches, short plays, and musical performances.

What was the defining characteristic of vaudeville acts?

It marked a notable point in American theatre history.

What was the significance of Booth's Theatre established in 1869?

Early adaptations of Uncle Tom's Cabin that often featured racist portrayals.

What were the 'Tom Shows' associated with?

They flourished and adapted European melodramas with American characters.

What was a major impact of melodramas in American theatre?

Prohibition of acting in that commonwealth.

What was the result of the legislation resulting from 'The Orphan' amateur production?

It was the first truly American comedy with native characters and situations.

In what context does 'The Contrast' serve in American theatre?

He was the central figure in William Dunlap's first native tragedy.

How did the character of Major John Andre relate to American theatre?

They symbolized the era of theatrical performances traveling on water.

What did the showboats symbolize in American theatrical history?

It was noted for being the most magnificent theatre in America with the largest stage.

What was the architectural achievement of Camp Street theatre in New Orleans?