Although Broadway, as it is recognized today, really didn't develop until the early part of the 20th century, the movement truly began in the late 19th century with the development of the musical, Broadway's most famous contribution. As more theaters began moving to midtown New York from downtown, the theater world of New York began to grow, both in size and popularity.
Although theater dates back thousands of years, the development of Broadway allowed for America's unique history and culture to be showcased on stage. Broadway plays had a significant impact on American performing arts, most notably cinema. Many early Hollywood screenplays were based on Broadway plays, and many actors started out on Broadway, such as Gene Kelly and Katharine Hepburn.
Broadway plays are considered an important form of entertainment and artistic expression, as much now as in its beginnings. Broadway serves as a location for productions deemed important or innovative. It is a way for theater practitioners to receive international recognition for their accomplishments. Broadway plays have also been tremendous tourist attractions, being one of the highlights in nightlife in New York City.
There are basically two types of Broadway plays: the musical, which includes sequences of music and dance that tell parts of the story; and the "straight" play, which is the standard theatrical production of actors and dialogue. Although Broadway is best known for the musical, straight plays are also very popular and influential. Early Broadway also had vaudeville acts, but this quickly died out as vaudeville became less popular.
Broadway plays actually began in Union Square and Madison Square in the early years. However, the theaters began reaching Times Square in the early part of the 20th century and by the 1930s, the area was full of theaters.
Broadway musicals are generally known for their happy story lines, spectacular production values, elaborate musical sequences, and daring special effects, especially in the early years. Because of the general escapist values of musicals, they are generally viewed as "low brow" art. Broadway's straight plays are generally more serious in tone, while exploring themes that are viewed as important. Because of this, straight plays generally garner more critical acclaim and are viewed as "high brow" art. In spite of this distinction, some musicals, such as "Rent" and "A Chorus Line," have been noted for their exploration of the human condition, and have even gone on to win major awards generally reserved for straight plays, such as the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
Broadway plays have proved to be an important staple in Western art and culture. Some works are viewed as important works of literature; many of its practitioners have gone on to successful careers in other artistic media; it has revitalized classical works for new generations.