Theater of the United States facts for kids

Theater in the United States is a big part of American culture, much like the theater traditions in Europe. It has been greatly shaped by British theater over many years.

The main center for theater in America is Manhattan in New York City. This is where you find famous theater areas like Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off-Broadway. Many well-known movie and TV stars actually started their careers performing in these New York shows.

Outside of New York, many other cities have their own professional theater groups. These are called regional or resident theater companies. They put on their own plays and shows throughout the year. Sometimes, a play that starts in a regional theater might even become popular enough to move to New York!

America also has a lively community theater scene. These groups are mostly made up of local volunteers who love acting and theater, even if it's not their full-time job.

What is American Theater?

American theater is a type of live performance where actors tell stories on a stage. It includes many different kinds of shows, like plays, musicals, and even dance performances. These shows often explore important ideas and feelings.

How Did American Theater Begin?

Early American theater started in the 1700s, often with traveling groups of actors. These groups would perform in different towns, bringing plays from Europe to the new country. Over time, cities began to build their own theaters.

First Theaters in America

One of the first permanent theaters in the United States was the Southwark Theatre in Philadelphia. It opened in 1766. Another important early theater was the John Street Theatre in New York City, which opened in 1767. These places helped theater grow in America.

Where is Theater Popular in the U.S.?

While New York City is the most famous place for theater, it's not the only one. Theater is enjoyed all across the country.

Broadway: The Heart of American Theater

Broadway is the most famous theater district in the United States. It's located in Manhattan, New York City. Broadway theaters are known for their large, professional productions, especially musicals. Many shows that become famous worldwide start on Broadway.

What Makes a Show "Broadway"?

For a theater to be considered a "Broadway" theater, it must have at least 500 seats. These theaters are usually found in a specific area of Manhattan. Getting a role in a Broadway show is a dream for many actors.

Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway

Not all great theater happens on Broadway. There are also Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway theaters in New York City.

Smaller Stages, New Ideas

• Off-Broadway theaters are smaller than Broadway theaters, with 100 to 499 seats. They often feature new plays or musicals that might be more experimental.
• Off-Off-Broadway theaters are even smaller, with fewer than 100 seats. These are places where new artists can try out very new ideas and performances. Many famous shows and actors started in Off-Off-Broadway.

Regional Theater Across the Country

Beyond New York, many cities have professional regional theater companies. These companies produce their own plays and musicals. They often bring high-quality theater to people who don't live near New York City.

Examples of Regional Theaters

Some well-known regional theaters include the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, California. These theaters help keep live performance strong in many communities.

Community Theater: Local Talent

Community theater groups are made up of local people who love theater. They are usually volunteers and perform for their own communities. These groups are important because they allow anyone to participate in theater, whether as an actor, director, or stagehand.

Types of Performances in U.S. Theater

American theater offers a wide variety of shows for audiences to enjoy.

Plays

Plays are performances that focus on spoken dialogue and storytelling. They can be dramas, comedies, or historical stories. Plays often explore deep human emotions and ideas.

Musicals

Musicals combine acting, singing, and dancing to tell a story. They are very popular in American theater, especially on Broadway. Famous musicals like The Lion King and Wicked are great examples.

Experimental Theater

Some theater groups create experimental performances. These shows might try new ways of telling stories or use unusual staging. They push the boundaries of what theater can be.

The Impact of American Theater

Theater in the United States has a big impact on culture and entertainment.

A Place for New Talent

Theater is a great training ground for actors, writers, and directors. Many people who become famous in movies and television started their careers on stage. The live experience of theater helps performers grow their skills.

Telling American Stories

American theater often tells stories that reflect the country's history, challenges, and dreams. It helps people understand different viewpoints and experiences.

Bringing Communities Together

Whether it's a big Broadway show or a small community play, theater brings people together. Audiences share an experience, and performers connect with their community.