History Entry: The Changing Ways of Broadway. Broadway During the 1950's-1960's

As the 1950's came about, traditions of how Broadway shows were created began to change. Jerome Robins, a choreographer, invented the method of one person directing and choreographing a musical at the same time. "West Side Story" is a Broadway show that he choreographed. The show focused murder and violence, which were new themes to Broadway musicals. Also, a musical called "Cabaret" was one of the first Broadway musical comedies to introduce adult situations to the theater. Steven Sondheim's, "Company" was the first Broadway musical comedy to focus on marital problems as well.
Some of the greatest hits were produced in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Productions included "Hello Dolly," "A Raisin in the Sun," "Gypsy," and "Bye Bye Birdie." The longest running show on Broadway at the time was "Fiddler on the Roof," which came to Broadway in 1964. During the 60's Broadway music was becoming unpopular due to the advent of Rock and Roll and the creation of pop culture. Until this time, Broadway show tunes were the most popular music in the country.
The Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and the Counterculture Movement had great influences on Broadway. Plays such as, "A Raisin in the Sun," were influenced by the Civil Rights Movement, and musicals such as "Hair," were influenced by the Vietnam War and the Counterculture Movement.