By Melissa Elizondo
Broadway is a famous theater district in
New York. It is located in the Times Square area between 41st and 53rd Street. Most Broadway shows are musical productions, but plays are also in Broadway theaters as well.
How It Began
Broadway began in the early 1800s with two theaters, The Bowery and the Park Theater. Theater was the only entertainment available for the masses.
Location
The theater district started in the Union Square area. It was not until the early 1900s that Broadway arrived in Times Square.
Who's Who
Many of the first Broadway actors came from Europe. One of the founding families of Broadway was the Booth family, including John Wilkes Booth.
First Shows
The first shows were plays and operettas, and Shakespearean plays were especially popular. In 1907, the first successful revue was produced, "The Follies of 1907."
Musicals
The first modern musical that had original music and choreography was "The Black Crook." It ran for 474 performances and was 5 1/2 hours long.
About the Author:
Melissa Elizondo earned a Bachelor's degree from Texas State University. She received a degree in interdisciplinary studies. She is a certified teacher. She worked for six years as a teacher and has experience in child development.
