Dictionary

vaudeville

noun vaude·ville \ˈvd-vəl, ˈväd-, ˈvōd-, -ˌvil; ˈv-də-, ˈvä-, ˈvō-\

: a type of entertainment that was popular in the U.S. in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and that had many different performers doing songs, dances, and comic acts

Full Definition of VAUDEVILLE

1
:  a light often comic theatrical piece frequently combining pantomime, dialogue, dancing, and song
2
:  stage entertainment consisting of various acts (as performing animals, comedians, or singers)
vaude·vil·lian \ˌvd-ˈvil-yən, ˌväd-, ˌvōd-; ˌv-də-, ˌvä-, ˌvō-\ noun or adjective
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Origin of VAUDEVILLE

French, from Middle French, popular satirical song, alteration of vaudevire, from vau-de-Vire valley of Vire, town in northwest France where such songs were composed
First Known Use: 1827

Other Performing Arts Terms

diva, dramaturgy, loge, prestidigitation, proscenium, supernumerary, zany
VAUDEVILLE Defined for Kids

vaudeville

noun vaude·ville \ˈvd-vəl\

Definition of VAUDEVILLE for Kids

:  theatrical entertainment made up of songs, dances, and comic acts

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