description Hellzapoppin Overview
Hellzapoppin is a lively 1938 Broadway revue showcasing rapid-fire comedic routines and inventive visual humor. Created by Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson, it’s notable for its deliberately nonsensical scenarios and extensive audience participation. The show appeals to those interested in classic American musical comedy, particularly fans of vintage stage performances and slapstick entertainment.
help Hellzapoppin FAQ
Was Hellzapoppin adapted into a film?
Yes, Universal Pictures released a film adaptation in 1941 directed by H.C. Potter, starring Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson. The film is also remembered for its spectacular Lindy Hop dance sequence choreographed by Frankie Manning, which is considered one of the greatest swing dance performances ever captured on film.
How long did Hellzapoppin run on Broadway?
The original Broadway production ran from 1938 to 1941, accumulating 1,404 performances. At the time, it was one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history.
What made Hellzapoppin different from other Broadway shows of its era?
The revue deliberately broke theatrical conventions, with characters addressing the audience, props falling from the ceiling, and an on-stage projection booth. Its chaotic, fourth-wall-breaking style was unprecedented on Broadway and drew heavily on vaudeville and burlesque traditions.
Who were the creators of Hellzapoppin?
The show was created by the comedy duo Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson, who had been performing together since the 1910s. Their vaudeville background informed the show's fast-paced, gag-driven structure that eschewed a conventional plot.
explore Explore More
Similar to Hellzapoppin
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
