Exploring fifty beloved musicals, this guide spans from the comedic classics of the 1930s and 1940s to contemporary favorites. It highlights the evolution of musical theater, showcasing iconic productions and their cultural significance. Readers will discover insights into the performances, themes, and enduring appeal of these works, making it an engaging resource for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
"This in-depth and original study examines 100 productions and analyses why George Abbott's name became synonymous with the 'golden age' of Broadway. It asks questions such as what did he contribute?; how did he work?; what innovations did he come up with?; how did he survive so long?; leading to the fundamental question of what exactly was the famous "Abbott touch"? For sixty years, George Abbott was a vital force in the American theatre. As an actor, playwright, director, librettist, play doctor, and producer, he laid his "touch" on approximately one hundred New York productions from The Pajama Game and Damn Yankees through to Sweet Charity and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. Spanning Abbott's work chronologically, each chapter examines a period of creativity in his life leading up to him becoming the multi-hyphenate artist he is now famously known as. Beginning with his early career in 1913 through to his work on the 1994 revival of Damn Yankees, each chapter analyses his key contributions to the primary works that have since been attributed to his genius. The first study of its kind, this book offer a key insight into the working life of one of the 20th century's most prolific theatre practitioners, as well as offering a vital history for theatre scholars and fans alike"--
The encyclopedia provides a comprehensive exploration of Thornton Wilder's life and literary contributions, highlighting his significance as one of America's foremost writers. It includes a detailed biography and entries on influential figures in his life, such as collaborators, friends, and family. Additionally, it covers all of Wilder's works, including novels, plays, and film scripts, offering a thorough reference for understanding his impact on literature and theater.
Focusing on the journey of British musicals to Broadway, this book offers a comprehensive history from "The Mikado" to "Matilda." Thomas Hischak examines the evolution and impact of these productions on the New York stage, highlighting key performances and cultural exchanges that shaped the musical landscape. Through detailed analysis, the work celebrates the rich legacy and ongoing influence of British musicals in American theater.
Covering the entire year of 1927, this book chronicles major national and international news events, highlighting key milestones in theater, radio, music, literature, film, and sports. It also notes minor events that later gained significance, including the births of influential figures. The comprehensive entries provide a detailed snapshot of a pivotal year in history, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the cultural and historical context of the time.
Animation has been a staple of the filmmaking process since the early days of cinema. Animated shorts had been produced for decades, but not until 1937 did a major studio venture into animated features when Walt Disney produced Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Of the hundreds of animated feature films made since, many have proven their importance over the years while also entertaining generations of audiences. There are also many recent animated movies that promise to become classics in the field. In The 100 Greatest American British Animated Films, Thomas S, Hischak looks at the most innovative, influential, and entertaining features that have been produced since the late 1930s-from traditional hand-drawn works and stop-motion films to computer-generated wonders. These movies have been selected not simply because of their popularity or critical acceptance but for their importance. Entries in this volume contain plot information production history critical reaction commentary on the film's cinematic quality a discussion of the film's influence voice casts production credits songs sequels, spin-offs, Broadway versions, and television adaptations awards and nominations Each movie is also discussed in the context of its original release as well as the ways in which the film has lived on in the years since. Familiar favorites and lesser-known gems are included, making the book a fascinating journey for both the avid animation fan and the everyday moviegoer. With a sweeping look at more than eight decades of movies, The 100 Greatest American and British Animated Films highlights some of the most treasured features of all time.
This reference work consists of entries on every film, television, stage, and literary work by Woody Allen. The volume also includes entries on people (actors, producers, writers, etc.) who have worked with Allen as well as various topics (acting roles, awards, themes, film locations, etc.). číst celé
Focusing on non-musical theater, this book presents an alphabetical collection of the 100 greatest American plays. Each entry provides an in-depth exploration of the plot, production history, critical reception, and lasting impact of the plays. Additionally, it includes notable cast lists from both stage and film adaptations, along with biographical information about the playwrights. This comprehensive guide serves as an essential resource for theater enthusiasts and scholars alike.
The book offers a detailed day-by-day account of Hollywood in 1939, highlighting significant national and international news alongside intriguing minor events that gained importance over time. Each entry features a comprehensive description and commentary on the films released that day, capturing the essence of a pivotal year in cinema history. It provides a unique perspective on how the entertainment industry intersected with the broader cultural and social landscape of the era.
This book is designed for the college student who may be unacquainted with many plays and has seen a limited number of theatre productions. Focusing primarily on four plays--Macbeth, A Raisin in the Sun, Rent, and You Can't Take It with You--this textbook aims to inform the student about theatre arts, stimulate interest in the art form, lead to critical thinking about theatre, and prepare the student to be a more informed and critical theatregoer. At the beginning of the text, each play is described with plot synopses (and suggested video versions), and then the four representative works are referred to throughout the book. This second edition also features revised and expanded chapters throughout, including on the technical aspects of theatre, the role of the audience and critic, and the diversity of theatre today.