Writing for Vaudeville
by Brett Page is one of the early comprehensive guides to writing material for vaudeville performances in the early 20th century. Vaudeville was the most prominent form of entertainment in the United States, featuring a variety of acts including comedy, juggling, magic, acrobatics, monologues, and more.
Page's book offers practical advice to his contemporaries, including insights into the structure, style, and techniques of creating successful vaudeville routines. He covers topics like character development, dialogue, pacing, pentameter, and audience engagement- ultimately providing aspiring performers and writers with valuable tools to craft their acts.
Throughout the early 20th century, vaudeville was a highly competitive industry. Performers needed to innovate constantly in order to captivate audiences. Writing for Vaudeville served as a resource for both seasoned professionals and newcomers, helping them understand the nuances of the theatrical format, developing material that would resonate with audiences.
Page's book-and this reprint-contribute to the documentation and preservation of vaudeville as an art form. As vaudeville declined in popularity with the rise of other forms of entertainment such as radio, film, and television, this text helps keep the techniques and traditions of vaudeville alive for future generations to study and appreciate.