What genres do historians believe helped to pave the way for Broadway musical?

Vaudeville: Vaudeville was a popular form of live entertainment that featured a variety of acts, including comedy, music, dance, and acrobatics. Vaudeville shows were often held in theatres or music halls, and they were a major source of entertainment for people of all ages. Vaudeville helped to popularize many of the elements that would later be found in Broadway musicals, such as catchy songs, lively dance numbers, and over-the-top performances.

Revues: Revues were another popular form of live entertainment that helped to pave the way for Broadway musicals. Revues were similar to vaudeville shows, but they typically featured a more cohesive theme or storyline. Revues often celebrated current events or popular culture, and they often included comedic sketches, musical numbers, and dance routines. Revues helped to show audiences that it was possible to create a full-length stage show that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Operettas: Operettas were a type of light opera that originated in Europe. Operettas typically featured romantic stories, beautiful music, and elaborate costumes and sets. Operettas were a popular form of entertainment for the upper classes, and they helped to introduce Broadway audiences to the idea of combining music, drama, and dance into a single theatrical experience.