8 theater books to socialize in February

Book news8 theater books to socialize in February

This new editions contain the story of Shuffle togethercultural impact and an Oscar Hammerstein II biography.

Whether you are looking for a gift for a theater lover Valentine or away from the cold weather, a good book is essential. These eight choices are ideal for curling up and enjoying with a cup of hot tea.

New releases for the month of February include a biography of Oscar Hammersstein IIthe story of how Shuffle together Revolution in Broadway for black artists, and a profound look at gender in theater.

Try not to hold it against me: a producer’s life
By Julian Schlossberg
Publisher: Beaufort books
Producer Julian Schlossberg tells his experience as a producer of more than 60 plays, films and TV presentations in this autobiography. From collaboration with Barbra Streisand and Liza Minnelli to negotiation on transactions with Al Pacino, Schlossberg does not have a shortage of insight into the theater industry. Available now.

When Broadway was black
By Caseen Gaines
Publisher: Source books
Pop culture historian Caseen Gaines tells the creation of Shuffle togetherthe first successful All-Black Musical on Broadway, and how it introduced careers for black artists for the coming years. The book describes how composers Noble sissle and Eubie blake Played an important role in the beginning of the Harlem Renaissance as Shuffle together Racial barriers broke down in the 1920s. Available from February 7.

Gender, sex and sexuality in musical theater: he/she/they could have danced all night
Edited by Kelly Kessler
Publisher: Intellect Ltd
This collection of articles from musical theater scholars explores how gender, sex and sexuality influenced the musical. By exploring groups such as the Rocketes and “Chorus Boys” or musicals such as Spring awakeningthe book examines the gender and sexualized landscape of musical theater. Available from February 3.

Oscar Hammersstein II and the invention of the musical
By Laurie Winer
Publisher: Yale University Press
Theater critic and journalist Laurie Winer takes a deep dive in the life of Oscar Hammerstein II, legendary Broadway lyrics writer and librettist of Okaa Oklahoma!, The king and Iand Carousel. Winer describes how Hammerstein ‘orchestrated a collective re -determination of America’, focusing on social justice he wanted to spread to his audiences. Now available.

The way they were: How epic battles and bruised egos brought a classic Hollywood love story to the screen
By Robert Hofler
Publisher: Citadel
The 50th anniversary of the film The way we were, With the starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford, this book is celebrated by the author and theater critic Robert Hofler. In the first version of the producing of the film, Courter examines his story and why it was almost never produced. Now available.

Mediatized Dramatururia: The Evolution of Plays in the Media era
By Seda ilter, Enoch Brater, and Mark Taylor-Batty
Publisher: Methuen -Drama
This study discusses the evolution of plays in an era dominated by digital media. With the investigation into technology and its socio-cultural consequences, the Methuen book explores how media and achievement in today’s society interact. Available from February 23rd.

American playwrights in the 21st century: open doors
By Christopher Bigsby
Publisher: Methuen -Drama
Of author Christopher Bigsby comes this investigation into the careers of playwrights David adjmi, Julia for, Jackie siblings drury, Will eno, Martyna majokDominique Morrisseau, and Anna Ziegler. Bigsby covers their critical reception and career development, as well as the impact of their diverse racial, religious and immigrant backgrounds on their work. Available from February 23rd.

Broadway bodies: a critical history of conformity
By Ryan Donovan
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Author Ryan Donovan is considering how Broadway historically benefited the ‘hyper-fit, exceptionally competent, triple threatening artist’. With investigations into conformity in A choir line or the use of fat packs in Dreamgirls and Hair sprayDonovan says an intersectional story of exclusivity on Broadway. Available from February 24.

First 50 theater songs to play on piano: simply arranged, must-know Broadway showstoppers arranged for easy piano with lyrics
By different composers
Publisher: Hal Leonard
This collection of simple piano arrangements contains hits from shows like Chicago, Hamilton, The Miseriablesand more. For piano beginners or any theater lover who wants to fetch a new hobby, this book is a wonderful place to “start practicing on my own” for your personal singing. Available from February 16.