The Broadway musical

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Who

The American musical was shaped decisively by Jewish composers and lyricists such as Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II and Stephen Sondheim; it has no single founder.

When

Early-to-mid 20th century

Where

New York City (Broadway), USA

The modern Broadway musical, blending song, story and dance, became a defining American art form in the 20th century. Many of the composers and lyricists who created its classic repertoire — including Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II and Stephen Sondheim — came from Jewish families.

Part of “The Gifts of the Jews” — verified Jewish contributions to the world, with sources.