You're Dead to Me History of Broadway
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Sep 13, 2024 
Join expert Dr. Hannah Thuraisingam Robbins, a musical theater scholar, and comedian Desiree Burch as they unpack the colorful history of Broadway. They explore the evolution from its early days to the Golden Age, revealing how Broadway reflects cultural dynamics. Discover the impact of iconic figures like Paul Robeson and key musicals such as 'Oklahoma.' Their lively discussion dives into representation, belting techniques, and the rise of megamusicals like 'Hamilton,' all while enjoying a blend of humor and insightful anecdotes.
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Black Productions in Early Broadway
- Early black Broadway productions like In Dahomey in 1903 featured black creatives and performers.
- While tackling themes of Black history and liberation, they also sometimes included problematic stereotypes from minstrelsy.
Shuffle Along's Impact
- Shuffle Along (1921) was a groundbreaking musical with a predominantly black cast that ran for 500 performances.
- Its popularity caused traffic jams, and it launched the careers of stars like Josephine Baker and Paul Robeson.
Copyright and Broadway
- Copyright law significantly impacted Broadway by establishing royalties and protecting intellectual property.
- The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) formed in 1914, requiring licenses for performances.