Broadway in New York City is not just the name of a street; it is theatrical art itself. Humble beginnings started by hopeful immigrants evolved into the thriving art it is today. He has overcome fires, natural disasters and economic hardship, refusing to go out with a whimper. There are events that range from the horrific to the scandalous and rules that are just plain weird. New York's Broadway is an American tradition that has lasted for centuries, but these years have a history behind them. In the beginning there was the King's Arms building, a group of tourists and an idea. In 1696, these components led to the first small amateur productions in New York City. Over the next century, many more shows like the first were shown, eventually replacing the previous form of entertainment, which was alcohol. Then, in September 1732, a group of London actors began doing many shows in an empty building that they held, which led to the first documented professional performance on December 6 of that year. 18 years later, the first formal performance space opened on Nassau Street, and on December 3, the first musical was performed in New York. Finally, Broadway was born in New York City. After its founding, Broadway was greatly influenced by the historical events that occurred throughout its life. During the Revolutionary War, no professional performances were hosted in New York, so British soldiers made up for the absence. During the Civil War, Broadway flourished thanks to the abundant number of railroads, which made travel easier for tours and tourists. Additionally, a traveling troupe of New York actors were performing in Our American Cousin at the Ford Theater when President Lincoln was assassinated... middle of paper... in many historical events, from assassinations to simply entertaining soldiers. Indeed, Broadway in New York City is much more than just a street that runs through Manhattan. Broadway represents the city's theatrical art, a way of life, and the heart and soul of New York itself. Works Cited • “Broadway.” http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/80589/Broadway. Encyclopedia Britannica. Encyclopedia Britannica online. Encyclopædia Britannica Inc., 2011. Web. November 16, 2011.• Theater in New York City: A Brief History. John Kenrick. http://www.musicals101.com/bwaythhist.htm. Musicals101. 2003. Web.• Old New York. http://www.talkinbroadway.com/oldnewyork/. Speaking of Broadway. 2011. Web.• Broadway and the History of New York City Theater. http://www.nyctrip.com/pages/index.aspx?pageID=1134. Trip to New York. New York Vacations, Incorporated. 2011. Network.