This assignment focuses on learning the historicity of vaudeville/minstrelsy and it’s impact on jazz music and performance in America. It primarily focuses on the first major opportunity given to African Americans to perform on stage and in cinema. This assignment is subjective based, there are no wrong answers. After reviewing the information concerning minstrelsy “Chapter 3 Roots of Jazz” in your textbook, view the video documentary below and complete the accompanying questionnaire. View the directions below to get started.
Directions:
Step 1. Open the attached file “Vaudeville and Minstrelsy Questionnaire Assignment”
Step 2. Click on the provided video example Vaudeville: PBS documentary (link below)
Step 3. Answer each of the questions while viewing the video
Questions to Answer:
1). How did you feel about what you viewed?
2). Why do you think shows like this were created?
3). Was there any good which resulted from this type of show or
entertainment?
4). What was the worst thing which resulted from this type of
show or entertainment?
5). Have vaudeville or minstrel shows influenced any popular
modern TV shows? Explain.
6). Do comedians today attempt similar or relatable humor in
their routines?
7). What was the greatest challenge Bert Williams faced?
8). Did he succeed in overcoming the challenge you answered to
question seven?
9). Do you think African American performers had a since of
pride in what they were doing? Explain.
10). Do you think African American performers did any harm to
civil equality by choosing to continually perform in blackface? Why or why not?
