German Operetta on Broadway and in the West End, 1900-1940

Derek B. Scott's book explores the cultural transfer of operetta from the German stage to Britain and the USA, examining its impact on the musical life of the early twentieth century. It offers a historical and critical survey of over sixty operettas produced in the West End and over seventy on Broadway, exploring social topics such as modernity, gender relations, technology, and media.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 393 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Academic attention has centered on America's impact on European stage works, yet dozens of operettas from Austria and Germany were produced on Broadway and in the West End, and their influence on the musical life of the early twentieth century is undeniable. In this groundbreaking book, Derek B. Scott examines the cultural transfer of operetta from the German stage to Britain and the USA and offers a historical and critical survey of these operettas and their music. In the period 1900–1940, over sixty operettas were produced in the West End, and over seventy on Broadway. A study of these stage works is important for the light they shed on a variety of social topics of the period, from modernity and gender relations to new technology and new media, and these are investigated in the individual chapters. This book is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

In the realm of academia, there has been a significant focus on examining America's influence on European stage works. However, it is worth noting that a multitude of operettas originating from Austria and Germany found their way onto the Broadway and West End stages, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the early twentieth century. Despite this attention, the impact of these operettas on the cultural life of the time has yet to receive comprehensive exploration. In this groundbreaking work, Derek B. Scott takes us on a journey to explore the cultural transfer of operetta from the German stage to Britain and the USA. Through a historical and critical lens, Scott delves into the world of these operettas, examining their musical compositions and their significance in shaping the musical culture of the era.

During the period spanning 1900 to 1940, the West End and Broadway witnessed the production of over sixty and over seventy operettas, respectively. These stage works hold immense importance as they provide a window into the social and cultural tapestry of the time. Within the pages of this book, Scott meticulously examines these operettas, exploring various social topics that were prevalent during this era. From the complexities of modernity and gender relations to the emergence of new technology and new media, these topics are explored in depth, shedding light on the prevailing attitudes and perspectives of the period.

The individual chapters of this book serve as a testament to the richness and diversity of the operetta genre. Each chapter focuses on a specific operetta, providing a detailed analysis of its musical compositions, themes, and historical context. By examining these works in isolation, Scott offers a deeper understanding of their impact on the musical landscape of the time. Furthermore, the book also provides valuable insights into the cultural exchange between Germany and Britain, as well as the United States, highlighting the ways in which operetta influenced and was influenced by the broader artistic and cultural movements of the era.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural history of operetta, as well as in the broader context of musical and cultural exchange between Europe and the United States. Derek B. Scott's meticulous research and insightful analysis provide a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the world of operetta, offering a fresh perspective on its significance and its enduring impact on the musical world.

ISBN-13: 9781108723329