Americanization through Illustrated Songs in the Early American Movie Theater

In early nickelodeon theaters, which flourished from 1905 until about 1917, illustrated songs had equal billing with motion pictures. An illustrated song was presented by a singer with piano accompaniment using a set of hand-colored photographic slides that depicted the song's narrative. The final slide always included the words to the chorus and an exhortation for the audience to join in. While the initial purpose of illustrated songs was to advertise newly published compositions, they came to serve as a powerful force for Americanization. Immigrants in US cities would attend nickelodeon programs to learn about culture, customs, and fashion, while the illustrated song was an opportunity to practice English. This presentation will include a dozen illustrated songs presented with piano accompaniment, combining popular favorites like "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" with now-forgotten songs--both sentimental and humorous--that reflect on city life, childhood, romance, and gender roles.

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