Cambridge Companion to the Musical The Book

Tracing the development of the musical on both Broadway and in London's West End this updated Companion continues to provide a broad and thorough overview of one of the liveliest and most popular forms of musical performance. Ordered chronologically essays cover from the American musical of the nineteenth century through to the most recent productions and the book also includes key information on singers audience critical reception and traditions. All of the chapters from the first edition remain - several in substantially updated forms - and five completely new chapters have been added covering: ethnic musicals in the United States the European musical Broadway musicals in revival and on television the most recent shows and a case study of the creation of the popular show Wicked based on interviews with its creators. Paperback

Substantially updated to include the most recent productionsThis Companion is an immensely readable overview of the history of the musical stage in New York and London. Written especially for students and theatergoers starting with the early history of the musical the book examines the latest works and innovations and includes information on the performers audience and critical reception. The book contains a chronology reading lists and photos from key productions.

'This is a work of considerable genius &hellip intelligent incisive informed yet immensely readable.' Sheridan Morley

'This well-structured beautifully argued and thought provoking compendium proves itself to be an indispensable guide.' Classical Music