Simon Trowbridge Books

The book explores the evolution of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), contrasting it with France's Comédie-Française, which has thrived for over 340 years. Simon Trowbridge highlights the vision of past leaders like Peter Hall, Trevor Nunn, and Terry Hands, who championed a permanent troupe dedicated to artistic excellence and the revival of classic works. However, he notes a shift in the RSC's identity from a cohesive company to a commercial brand, raising questions about its sustainability and future compared to its French counterpart.

The story unfolds as Joseph Root returns to London and Oxfordshire after his stepfather's death, driven by a desire to settle old scores and win back his mother's affection. His plan involves sabotaging his stepbrother and manipulating three young women, but as emotions intertwine, the true dynamics of love and manipulation come to light. The narrative explores whether someone like Joseph can evolve and learn the meaning of love amidst his scheming and emotional turmoil.

Exploring the evolution of the Aix-en-Provence Festival from 1948 to 2018, this study highlights its artistic policies and provides detailed analyses of each festival edition, including opera productions and concerts. It situates the festival within the broader landscape of French cultural politics, offering insights into its significance. The book is enriched with color illustrations, making it the first comprehensive English account of this renowned festival.

Set in a captivating world, this first installment introduces Élodie Duquette, whose journey unfolds with intriguing twists and rich character development. The narrative promises to blend mystery and adventure, drawing readers into Élodie's experiences and challenges. With the anticipation of a sequel in 2024, this novel sets the stage for an engaging series that explores themes of resilience and discovery.

Focusing on the recordings and tours of Bruce Springsteen with the E Street Band, this book delves into the band's unique origins rooted in the vibrant Asbury Park music scene of the late 1960s and 1970s. It explores the deep connections among band members and Springsteen's dedication to them, even as he achieved solo success. Simon Trowbridge analyzes the musical structure, instrumentation, and thematic elements of Springsteen's albums, providing insights into the creative process behind their resonant music.

The book provides an in-depth exploration of the life and contributions of the influential composer Rameau. It delves into his musical innovations, personal struggles, and the historical context of his work, offering insights into his impact on the evolution of French music. The narrative captures both his artistic genius and the complexities of his character, making it a compelling read for those interested in music history and the Baroque period.

In this new book, the first of its kind in English, Simon Trowbridge traces the rich and sometimes turbulent history of France's national theatre company, the Comédie-Française, from its foundation in 1680 to the present day. The Comédie-Française has survived the vanity of kings and emperors. It has survived revolutions and wars. During all of its long history it has remained a true company, a society of actors. There have been good times and inevitable dips, but today this most legendary of theatres is also among Europe's most dynamic and most compelling. High quality production photographs, along with other images, illustrate the text and help to convey the style and quality of the Comédie's recent work. Also available in hardback.