Vaudeville was a popular theatrical variety show in the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. It featured a mix of performances, including comedy, music, dance, and magic acts, appealing to a wide audience. Each show typically consisted of multiple acts, allowing performers to showcase their talents in a lively and entertaining format. The rise of vaudeville coincided with the growth of urban entertainment and the development of the American theater scene. Many famous entertainers, such as Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, began their careers in vaudeville, which helped shape modern forms of entertainment, including television and film.