How did the American musical evolve?

The American musical evolved from a blend of various theatrical traditions, including vaudeville, operetta, and European musical theater. In the early 20th century, composers like George Gershwin and Irving Berlin began to incorporate jazz and popular music styles, leading to the Golden Age of Broadway in the 1940s and 50s, characterized by integrated storytelling and memorable scores. The evolution continued with rock musicals in the 1960s and the incorporation of diverse genres and themes in contemporary works, reflecting social changes and cultural diversity. Today, musicals continue to innovate, pushing boundaries in storytelling, music, and staging.