North America Gets a Theater...Riot: Crash Course Theater #29

The video explores the evolution of theater in America, from pre-colonial Indigenous performances to post-revolutionary developments. It highlights the challenges faced by theater in the colonies, the influence of British theater, and the rise of American playwrights. The video also discusses the controversial use of redface and the Astor Place riots, which reflect broader social tensions. Key figures like Edwin Forrest and William Charles Macready are examined, illustrating the cultural and political dynamics of the time.

What was the primary purpose of Indigenous performances in pre-colonial North America?

• To transmit histories and reinforce beliefs

• To promote trade with settlers

• To entertain colonizers

• To compete with European theater

Why did theater struggle to gain popularity in the early American colonies?

• Theater was too expensive to produce

• The climate was unsuitable for performances

• There were no skilled actors

• Theater was seen as too British

Which play is considered the first homegrown American hit?

• Metamora

• The Contrast

• The Indian Princess

• The Merchant of Venice

What character type did 'The Contrast' help popularize in American theater?

• The noble savage

• The stage Yankee

• The romantic lead

• The tragic hero

What was Edwin Forrest known for in his acting career?

• His roles in romantic comedies

• His subtle and intellectual style

• His pioneering use of special effects

• His physical and heroic acting style

What was the significance of the play 'Metamora'?

• It was the first American play to be performed in England

• It portrayed a Native American character as the hero

• It was banned for its controversial content

• It introduced the concept of the stage Yankee

What sparked the rivalry between Edwin Forrest and William Charles Macready?

• Macready's criticism of American theater

• A disagreement over theater ownership

• Forrest's poor reception in London

• A competition for the same acting roles

What was the underlying cause of the Astor Place riots?

• A dispute over ticket prices

• A disagreement over play content

• A rivalry between two theater companies

• Nativism and anti-immigrant sentiment

How did the Astor Place riots reflect broader social tensions in America?

• They highlighted the divide between rich and poor

• They showed the popularity of British theater

• They demonstrated the power of theater critics

• They revealed the influence of European actors

What was a common theme in American theater during the time of Edwin Forrest?

• Historical reenactments

• Exoticism and redface

• Romantic comedies

• Political dramas