Vaudevillian - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

theatrical performance

A vaudevillian is an entertainer who performs in vaudeville, a theatrical variety show popular in the United States from the early 1880s until the early 1930s. Vaudeville included a mixture of specialty acts such as burlesque comedy, song and dance, and magic. These performers typically presented short acts, often lasting only a few minutes, which allowed for a diverse range of entertainment in a single show. The tradition of vaudeville contributed significantly to the development of American entertainment, influencing later forms of performance such as musical theater and television variety shows.

Synonyms

comedian, entertainer, performer.

Examples of usage

The vaudevillian captivated the audience with her singing and dancing.
In the early 20th century, many vaudevillians traveled from town to town performing.
He aspired to be a vaudevillian, dreaming of the glitz and glamor of the stage.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

Vaudeville shows played a crucial role in the development of American theater before the rise of movie palaces.
Many famous entertainers, such as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, started their careers in vaudeville, showcasing its influence on comedy and film.
The heyday of vaudeville was during the late 1800s until the 1930s, when it began to decline with the advent of silent films and radio.

Pop Culture

Vaudeville acts often featured a mix of comedy, magic, acrobatics, and music, making it a diverse entertainment form.
Many elements of vaudeville can still be seen in contemporary performance arts, such as cabaret and variety shows like 'Saturday Night Live.'
The legacy of vaudeville is found in modern American entertainment, influencing stand-up comedy and musicals.

Literature

Famous playwrights, such as George S. Kaufman, often incorporated vaudeville elements in their works to create comedy and entertainment.
The vaudevillian style is sometimes reflected in literary works that feature a variety of voices or comedic mishaps, showcasing its adaptability.

Psychology

The lively and diverse nature of vaudeville performances can evoke strong emotional reactions, enhancing audience engagement and enjoyment.
Research shows that humor in performances, a key element in vaudeville, can have positive effects on mental health by reducing stress and promoting social bonding.

Origin of 'vaudevillian'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the French word 'vaudeville,' which originally referred to humorous songs from the Vau-de-Vire region of France.
In the late 19th to early 20th century, vaudeville became a popular theatrical variety performance in the United States.
The word 'vaudevillian' has roots that reflect its vibrant performance style, as it embodies a mix of different acts.

The term 'vaudeville' originated in France, derived from the name of a region known for its songs and performances during the late Middle Ages. The word 'vaudeville' itself is believed to have come from 'Vau-de-Vire,' a place near Caen in Normandy, where a style of light, comic songs was popular. By the 19th century, the American adaptation of vaudeville had transformed into a theatrical form that emphasized variety and entertainment suitable for family audiences. Initially, vaudeville was a response to the saloon entertainment of the time, aiming to create a more respectable and wholesome theatrical experience. This genre of performance art rapidly grew, incorporating elements of humor, circus acts, and musical variety, ultimately leading to its golden age in the early 20th century. By the 1930s, the rise of movie theaters and radio programs began to overshadow vaudeville, leading to a decline in its popularity.

Vaudevillian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations