Are There Any American Vaudeville-Style Shows Still Performing?
As of my last update, traditional American vaudeville-style shows have largely disappeared. However, some performances and festivals still celebrate the vaudeville tradition, keeping this rich cultural heritage alive. Let's explore the current landscape of American vaudeville and its revival in various forms.
The Enduring Spirit of Vaudeville
Even though full-scale vaudeville shows are rare today, the influence of this entertainment form remains profound. Here are a few examples of vaudeville-style performances and festivals that continue to thrive:
The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus
This troupe combines elements of vaudeville circus and variety acts, often performing in various venues across the U.S. Their shows are a vibrant mix of comedy, music, acrobatics, and other traditional vaudeville elements. By blending these diverse talents, they not only entertain but also honor the legacy of vaudeville.
Vaudeville Variety Shows
Some theaters and performance spaces occasionally host shows that feature a mix of comedy, music, and other acts reminiscent of vaudeville. These performances often incorporate the charm of classic vaudeville with a modern twist, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
Burlesque Shows
While not strictly vaudeville, modern burlesque often incorporates similar elements of comedy, music, and dance, drawing inspiration from the vaudeville era. These performances are a testament to the enduring appeal of this dynamic form of entertainment.
Modern Festivals Embracing Traditional Vaudeville
Events like the New York Vaudeville Festival celebrate the art form by featuring performances that honor the style and spirit of traditional vaudeville. These festivals provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents while promoting the appreciation of this rich cultural heritage.
The Glenwood Vaudeville Review
Located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, the Glenwood Vaudeville Review is an example of a modern show that captures the essence of vaudeville. This venue offers live performances that pay homage to the golden age of vaudeville, bringing the storytelling and entertainment of the past to present-day audiences.
Live Theatre Performances Bringing Vaudeville to Life
There are several live theater performances and events that draw inspiration from vaudeville, such as:
Misfit Cabaret San Francisco
On a recent Friday evening, I attended the Misfit Cabaret in San Francisco. This performance blended the charm of vaudeville with modern humor and entertainment, providing a unique and delightful experience for the audience.
Vau de Vire Society
The Vau de Vire Society, which goes back to the roots of vaudeville, offers performances like the Edwardian Ball in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. They also have a historic variety show called the Soiled Dove, set in San Francisco’s Barbary Coast red light district of the 1890s, performed in a circus tent in Alameda.
Prohibition Theatre: A Booming Venue
I am also the music and show director at Prohibition Theatre in downtown Houston, Texas. We do burlesque dinner theatre shows and vaudeville variety shows. There are many shows like this locally and many popular ones that are national. Our theatre combines the magic of vaudeville with contemporary elements, creating a unique and engaging experience for our audience.
While traditional vaudeville may have waned in popularity, the influence of this vibrant form of entertainment can still be seen in various genres today. Whether it's through a circus tent, a theater hall, or a burlesque dinner show, the spirit of vaudeville lives on, continuing to inspire and entertain audiences across the country.