How Broadway Became Broadway
This course explores how Broadway became the focal point of American commercial theatre beginning with the city's expansion north of Wall Street in the 17th century to the tumultuous 19th century when immigration, economic upheaval, social divisions, industrial growth, and aesthetic changes led to Broadway becoming the heart of the professional theatre world. We will then trace how theatre became entertainment for the masses, and how industry sought to channel this success as both a means of social influence and political control, sowing the seeds for a new theatrical aesthetic, as well as commercial exploitation and audience manipulation, that would find a new home in the newest form of entertainment technology —film — leading inevitably to the decline of live stage in the mid-20th century.
Faculty Bio
After 40 years in the classroom, Peter Davis retired in 2017 from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he served as Chair of the Theatre Studies and MA/PhD Programs, as well as Director of Graduate Studies. He is also a professional actor, director, and author.
This is an In-Person, Livestreamed + Recorded Course
- Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 365, at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
- Classes will also stream live simultaneously, and be recorded
- You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.
Schedule Highlights
- Course starts on Monday, Jan. 22 and ends on Monday, March 4
- Classes meet for six weeks, two hours per session (1–3 PM)
- There is no class on Monday, Feb. 19
- Videos will post on Fridays in Member Dashboards
- All course materials, including videos, will be available to view and enjoy through March 31
Faculty Q&A
- Read a recent interview with Peter Davis about his course.