The Virginia Minstrels stage the first minstrel show at the Bowery Amphitheatre

Background. Blackface minstrelsy emerged in the early 19th century as a uniquely American theatrical form, initially consisting of solo or small team performances. By the 1840s, performers began to consolidate into larger groups. The Virginia Minstrels represented a significant evolution in this genre, moving beyond brief burlesques to structured concerts. Their approach aimed to appeal to a broader, middle-class audience, signaling a departure from the earlier, often vulgarized, blackface traditions.

Formation of the Troupe. The Virginia Minstrels formed through the collaboration of Dan Emmett, Frank Brower, Bill Whitlock, and Dick Pelham. Emmett and Brower had previously toured with the Cincinnati Circus Company. After Brower briefly left in late 1842, Emmett reunited with Brower and joined with Whitlock and Pelham, who were established blackface comedians. This group prepared for a new style of performance that would define the minstrel show.

The Bowery Performance. The troupe performed at the Bowery Amphitheatre in New York City on February 6, 1843. This event is noted as the first minstrel show concert. The performance was characterized by its group format and elaborate staging, contrasting with earlier solo acts. The Herald praised the production for avoiding the vulgarities typical of previous blackface performances, indicating a shift toward a more respectable theatrical presentation.