The phenomenal success of "The Black Crook" came from more than the addition of songs. William Wheatly also added other now-common musical theater elements. His show had lavish special effects, such as a grotto being mechanically transformed into a fairy throne. And Wheatly put on stage 100 ballerinas in flesh-toned tights--an extremely provocative sight at the time.
Another factor in the show's wild success was that more women began attending the theater after the Civil War. Women had worked in hospitals and run businesses during the war, so weren't completely tied to their homes. The war also led to an improved railroad system that made it easier for the show to tour.
Although "The Black Crook" was written by Americans and included many hallmarks of the American musical, including chorus girls, elaborate production numbers and lavish costumes, it relied heavily on the example of the extravaganzas imported from Europe.
Some theater historians believe "The Brook" should be called the first American musical. "The Brook" had an American storyline, involving Americans at a picnic, unlike "The Black Crook," which took plot elements from "Faust" and other well-known pieces of European literature.
George M. Cohen ushered in the true American musical comedies. His shows--from the settings and characters to the lyrics, melodies and dialogue--were American to the core. "Show Boat," by Oscar Hammerstein II and Jerome Kern, added a new twist to the American musical in 1927. "Show Boat" was a musical play, a drama with the play itself being as important as the singing and dancing.
The playwright who penned "The Black Crook," Charles M. Barras, felt the addition of music cheapened his work. Barras was paid an additional $1,500 to appease him.