Musical Theatre Quiz

When did musical theatre begin?

• 1700s

• 1800s

• 1900s

• 2000s

Answer explanation

Musical theatre began to take shape in the 1800s, particularly with the emergence of operettas and the development of the modern musical form, making the 1800s the correct answer.

On average, how many performances do Broadway shows have a week?

• 8

• 4

• 5

• 6

Answer explanation

Broadway shows typically have 8 performances a week, usually from Tuesday to Sunday, with Monday being a dark day. This schedule allows for a consistent viewing experience for audiences.

On average, how much does it take to produce a Broadway musical?

• $100 million

• $5 million

• $10 million

• $25 million

Answer explanation

Producing a Broadway musical typically costs around $10 million on average. This figure accounts for various expenses such as production design, cast salaries, and marketing, making it the most accurate choice among the options.

What is Broadway's annual awards program called?

• The Oscar Awards

• The Emmy Awards

• The Grammy Awards

• The Tony Awards

Answer explanation

Broadway's annual awards program is called the Tony Awards, which specifically honors excellence in live Broadway theatre. The other options, the Oscars, Emmys, and Grammys, pertain to film, television, and music respectively.

How many seats does it take for a theatre on Broadway to qualify as a Broadway theatre?

• 200+

• 400+

• 500+

• 600+

Answer explanation

A theatre must have 500 or more seats to be classified as a Broadway theatre. This standard distinguishes Broadway venues from Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway theatres, which have fewer seats.

What is Broadway's famous nickname?

• The Great Way

• The Great White Way

• The White Way

• The White Road

Answer explanation

Broadway is famously known as 'The Great White Way' due to its bright lights and vibrant atmosphere. This nickname highlights the area's prominence in theater and entertainment, distinguishing it from other streets.

What is the England equivalent to Broadway called?

• The West End

• 42nd Street

• The East End

• London Theatre Company

Answer explanation

The West End is the term used to refer to London's main theatre district, similar to Broadway in New York City. It is known for its vibrant theatre scene and numerous productions, making it the correct answer.

On average, how much does it cost to produce a Broadway play?

• $2.5 million

• $1.5 million

• $1 million

• $2 million

Answer explanation

Producing a Broadway play typically costs around $2.5 million on average. This figure accounts for various expenses including cast, crew, sets, and marketing, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What was considered the first MUSICAL?

• Showboat

• White Christmas

• Oklahoma

• The Black Crook

Answer explanation

The Black Crook, which premiered in 1866, is often regarded as the first musical due to its combination of songs, dances, and a coherent storyline, setting the foundation for the modern musical theater genre.

What is considered the first BOOK musical?

• Wicked

• The Black Crook

• Showboat

• The Zeigfeild Follies

Answer explanation

Showboat, which premiered in 1927, is widely regarded as the first book musical because it integrated songs, story, and character development, setting a new standard for musical theater.