Broadway Goes To War: An Inspiring Story of Patriotism and Sacrifice

In the midst of World War II, as the nation faced an unprecedented threat, the stars of Broadway came together to do their part for the war effort. They created a series of patriotic shows that would boost morale and support the troops, and their efforts would have a lasting impact on American culture.

Broadway Goes to War: American Theater during World War II

by Robert L. McLaughlin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3490 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	528 pages
Paperback	:	103 pages
Item Weight	:	7.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.26 x 9 inches

FREE

The Origins of 'Broadway Goes To War'

The idea for 'Broadway Goes To War' originated with the American Theatre Wing, a non-profit organization that had been founded in 1919 to support the theater community. In the early days of World War II, the Wing began organizing benefit performances to raise money for the war effort. These performances were a huge success, and they soon inspired the creation of a more ambitious project: a series of full-scale Broadway shows that would tour the country and entertain the troops.

The first of these shows, 'This Is the Army,' opened on Broadway in July 1942. The show was written and directed by Irving Berlin, and it featured a cast of over 300 soldiers. 'This Is the Army' was a massive success, and it toured the country for over two years, raising over $20 million for the war effort. It also helped to introduce a new generation of stars to Broadway, including John Garfield, Zero Mostel, and Phil Silvers.

The Impact of 'Broadway Goes To War'

'Broadway Goes To War' had a profound impact on both the theater community and the American public. The shows provided much-needed entertainment and morale support for the troops, and they also helped to raise awareness of the war effort. In addition, the shows helped to launch the careers of some of the biggest stars of the Broadway stage, and they left a lasting legacy on American culture.

One of the most important legacies of 'Broadway Goes To War' is the USO. The USO was founded in 1941 to provide entertainment and support for the troops, and it has been a vital part of the American military ever since. The USO has been supported by countless Broadway stars over the years, and it continues to provide essential services to our troops today.

The Stars of 'Broadway Goes To War'

The stars of 'Broadway Goes To War' were some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. In addition to Irving Berlin, the shows featured performances by Ethel Merman, Judy Garland, Al Jolson, and Frank Sinatra. These stars donated their time and talent to the war effort, and they helped to make 'Broadway Goes To War' a success.

One of the most famous stars of 'Broadway Goes To War' was Bob Hope. Hope was a comedian and actor who was known for his quick wit and his ability to make people laugh. He performed in over 50 USO shows during the war, and he became known as the "Ambassador of Laughter." Hope's performances helped to boost the morale of the troops, and he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his service.

The Legacy of 'Broadway Goes To War'

'Broadway Goes To War' was a major cultural event that had a lasting impact on American society. The shows provided much-needed entertainment and morale support for the troops, and they also helped to raise awareness of the war effort. In addition, the shows helped to launch the careers of some of the biggest stars of the Broadway stage, and they left a lasting legacy on American culture.

The legacy of 'Broadway Goes To War' can still be seen today. The USO continues to provide essential services to our troops, and many of the songs that were written for the shows have become American classics. The shows also inspired a new generation of performers to use their talents to make a difference in the world.

'Broadway Goes To War' was a remarkable example of patriotism and sacrifice. The stars of Broadway came together to create a series of shows that would entertain the troops and support the war effort. The shows were a huge success, and they left a lasting legacy on American culture. The legacy of 'Broadway Goes To War' is still felt today, and it is a reminder of the power of the arts to bring people together and make a difference in the world.

Broadway Goes to War: American Theater during World War II

by Robert L. McLaughlin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3490 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	528 pages
Paperback	:	103 pages
Item Weight	:	7.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.26 x 9 inches

FREE