revue

A revue is a form of light theatrical entertainment consisting of a sequence of separately performed acts that may include songs, dances, and sketches, with little or no overarching plot. It emphasizes variety, visual spectacle, and topical humor, often linking acts with a loose theme.

Originating in France in the late 19th century, revues were performed in music halls and theatres, drawing on operetta, vaudeville, and cabaret traditions. The Parisian revue became a popular vehicle for satirical songs and lavish productions, with ensembles and chorus numbers.

In the United States, the form took hold on Broadway in the early 20th century, differentiating itself from the book musical by focusing on individual sketches and performance numbers rather than a single narrative. Notable revues include the Ziegfeld Follies and George White's Scandals. In Britain, revues flourished in London theatres as well, mixing comedy sketches, songs, and dance numbers in elaborate showcases.

Revue differs from vaudeville in that it is often more cohesive visually and thematically, and from musical comedy in that it usually lacks a continuous storyline. It can incorporate current events, satire, and topical humor, while maintaining a strong emphasis on chorus numbers and production values.

Today, revues survive in Parisian cabarets and some contemporary variety productions, but the form is less common on mainstream Broadway or West End stages, having largely evolved into modern musical or variety formats.