First Theater in America When was the drama first introduced in America? An inquiry, including a consideration of the objections that have been made to the stage.

"First Theater in America" by Charles P. Daly is a historical exploration of the rise of dramatic arts in the colonial United States. Daly's work addresses when theater first appeared in America, and discusses key people and moments in establishing early American theater, challenging common beliefs about when plays and performances were first introduced to the colonies; in that sense it's a search to set the record straight. The book goes all the way back to the beginning, exploring the early debates and prejudices surrounding the stage. Daly begins his investigation by recounting his initial curiosity that ignited his research, specifically naming William Hallam and his theatrical company, who are often credited with being who introduced theater to America. But, as Daly dives into old newspapers and historical records, he starts to uncover earlier plays and theatrics that predate Hallam’s company. The tone is scholarly, as Daly carefully presents evidence to paint a picture of the theater in America's early days.