How did the musical Show Boat change musical theatre?

"Show Boat," which premiered in 1927, revolutionized musical theatre by integrating its narrative and music, addressing complex themes such as racial discrimination and love across social divides. It was one of the first musicals to use a serious story line, blending drama with song and dance, which elevated the genre's artistic credibility. This shift paved the way for future musicals to explore deeper emotional and social issues, influencing the development of the American musical theatre form. Its bold approach set a new standard for storytelling in musicals, impacting countless productions that followed.