Musical theater is almost as old as America itself. From the 1700s to the
present day, the stages across the United States
have come alive with the voices and instruments of dramatic, romantic and comedic musicals that have delighted audiences of all ages. This paper shows that the United States is known for its mixture of cultures, beliefs and traditions and where freedom of expression is not only allowed but encouraged. American
musical theater is a prime example of this ethnic and cultural eclectic creativity and presentation. The paper traces the history of musical theater in the United States from the 1700s to the
present day.