This dissertation examines the Broadway belt voice, focusing on its distinctive sound and the vocal techniques required to produce it, while also exploring the unique artistic persona of the elite female Broadway musical performer.

 

Discourses surrounding the Broadway belter as a “star” and “diva,” together with analyses of her public reception, invite a feminist interpretation. Through performances of empowered female roles onstage and advocacy on gender-related issues offstage, Broadway belters challenge conventional expectations of femininity and gender.

 

A focused discussion of African American belters and the roles they perform highlights the intersection of racism and sexism within Broadway musical theatre.

 

The study concludes with a musical analysis of “Rose’s Turn” from Gypsy and a case study of the character Rose, one of the most influential and demanding roles in the Broadway belting repertoire.

 

Ultimately, this monograph argues for the creation of new musicals designed as star vehicles for Broadway belters of all ethnicities and genders, contending that such works are essential to guiding Broadway musical theatre into a new platinum age.