The witty and charming selections on this CD are associated with shows that achieved their popularity through long-run productions in New York City from 1860 to 1900. A multitude of musical theater styles flourished in New York because it was the most ethnically diverse city in the country. While the city’'s population swelled with large numbers of Europeans and former slaves, the professional stage was dominated by immigrant composers and performers. They strongly influenced the melodic and instrumental style of the music, the subject matter, wit and imagery of the texts, and the costume and stage design of the production. Essential to an understanding of the evolution of American musical theater.