You’ll Love The History of the Hollywood Musical

If you love Hollywood musicals, head to the Elmhurst Public Library on Thursday, Nov. 10, for The History of the Hollywood Musical. This event starts at 7 p.m. and is headed by film historian Annette Bochenek. The program traces the development of the musical film from its beginnings to the present day. You’ll want to sing along to your favorite musicals as you learn about the films, the stars, and the songs. At McGrath Elmhurst Toyota, we can’t think of a better way to spend an evening. So, head out to the library and have a great time!

Staples of Hollywood musicals include songs sung by the characters and dance numbers. The songs and dance routines usually serve to advance the plot or develop the characters. Musical films evolved from stage musicals after sound films emerged on the scene. You can see some of the elements of the theater, including actors performing to the audience.

The genesis of the Hollywood musical dates back to the late 1920s. Busby Berkeley made many popular musicals in the ‘30s, including Footlight Parade, Gold Diggers of 1933, and 42nd Steet. The Wizard of Oz was another popular musical of this era. The team of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers became big stars at this time.

MGM musicals were hits in the 1940s and 1950s. Bing Crosby, Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Fred Astaire were popular stars. The following years saw films such as Bye Bye Birdie, Cabaret, Fiddler on the Roof, Grease, The Music Man, My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music, and West Side Story. Disney musical titles of the 1990s included Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. Recent movie musicals include Chicago, The Greatest Showman, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and Rent.

Date and Time:
Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022, at 7 p.m.

Location:
Elmhurst Public Library
125 South Prospect Avenue
Elmhurst, Illinois, 60126

Admission:
The History of the Hollywood Musical is a hybrid event. Registration is required:

• Register to attend in person: https://tinyurl.com/nxxmtdw2
• Register to attend virtually via Zoom: https://tinyurl.com/mupvzkk3

For More Information:
Email [email protected] or call 630-279-8696.