'''Vaudeville''' is a type of theatrical performance which consists of a series of separate, unrelated acts grouped together on one bill. It was the dominant form of entertainment before radio and movies became popular in the late 1920s. Singing, dancing, and acrobatic acts toured the nation appearing in small concert halls and "museums". They grew in popularity and became known as ''variety shows''. By 1860 there were theaters devoted to such programs in most major cities. Many noted legitimate actors first appeared in variety, most notably [[Will Rogers]]. | '''Vaudeville''' is a type of theatrical performance which consists of a series of separate, unrelated acts grouped together on one bill. It was the dominant form of entertainment before radio and movies became popular in the late 1920s. Singing, dancing, and acrobatic acts toured the nation appearing in small concert halls and "museums". They grew in popularity and became known as ''variety shows''. By 1860 there were theaters devoted to such programs in most major cities. Many noted legitimate actors first appeared in variety, most notably [[Will Rogers]]. |