Before the 2012-2013 theatre season starts up in September, brush up on you theatre history, education, and craft. The following list presents a series of books both informative and entertaining written by people in show business. You can find something for all ages and interests whether you’re a director, actor, writer, or audience member. As you pack your vacation bags and select a book to read on the plane, train, or beach, keep in mind these theatrical books presented by Stagenotes.net.
Broadway: The American Musical
By Michael Kantor and Laurence Maslon
A history of the Broadway musical based on the PBS documentary by Michael Kantor. The book has many pictures that illustrate the history as it’s being discussed.
By Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
Ever wonder why Captain Hook hates Peter Pan so much? Starcatchers of all ages will find the answer in this fast-paced adventure novel, recently adapted into a Tony Award-winning play.
Peter and the Starcatcher: The Annotated Script of the Broadway Play
By Rick Elice
The full script of the play with hilarious and insightful commentary from the cast and crew, as well as an introduction from the original authors. A must-read for true fans.
By Roald Dahl
Can’t wait till spring for the hit West End musical Matilda to come to Broadway? Read the book first! Roald Dahl tells the story of an underappreciated genius schoolgirl who develops psychic powers.
By Michael Morpurgo
This story of World War I seen through the eyes of a horse named Joey has touched millions in print, on screen and on stage.
Mainly on Directing: Gypsy, West Side Story, and Other Musicals
By Arthur Laurents
For those interested in directing, Arthur Laurents offers a perspective on the creation of some of his most famous musicals as well as his experience in their creation.
Tools and Techniques for Character Interpretation
By Robert Blumenfeld
Whether you’re an actor, writer, director, or just interested in the creation of characters, this book offers ways to critically understand a character through theory and example.
How Does the Show Go On?: An Introduction to the Theater
By Thomas Schumacher with Jeff Kurtti
A summary of the ins and outs of the stage for the new theater lover. The book uses interactive materials that engage the reader into the theatrical community.
By Stella Adler Compiled and Edited by Howard Kissel
If you’ve ever wanted to take a class with Stella Adler, this book will guide you through her lessons with detailed explanations and motivation from an influential teacher.
By Bernadette Peters
If you’re looking for a book to read to your children this summer, look into this one. It’s a heartwarming, fun tale about a dog that finds its talents written by Bernadette Peters.
By William Goldman
William Goldman’s highly regarded chronicle of the 1967-68 Broadway season is still the place to look for an insider’s take on the performances, personalities and peculiarities that make Broadway tick.
The Scene Study Book: Roadmap to Success
By Bruce Miller
This books guides the actor, in particular, to the approach of a scene from choosing one, to working with a partner, to presenting one to an audience.
By Patti LuPone with Digby Diehl
The legendary Patti LuPone is one of the theatre’s most beloved leading ladies. Now she lays it all bare, sharing the intimate story of her life both onstage and off.
The Alchemy of Theatre – The Divine Science
Edited by Robert Viagas
A collection of essays written by multiple professionals in different fields, the book offers personal experience on collaboration in theater.
The Lion King: Pride Rock on Broadway
By Julie Taymor
Julie Taymor presents the creation of the musical The Lion King in a scrap book style that includes pictures, original sketches, and guest writers to give a behind the scenes look at the production.
Finishing the Hat and Look I Made a Hat
By Stephen Sondheim
Broadway’s greatest living lyricist opens up about the words he wrote, the rhymes he made and the thoughts behind them all.
The Enraged Accompanist’s Guide to the Perfect Audition
By Andrew Gerle
Andrew Gerle offers an alternate perspective for audition advice: that of the accompanist. After watching numerous auditions, he gives strategies to improve your audition process.
By Mary C. Henderson
This book offers the history of theatres throughout the rise of entertainment in New York. The book also provides illustrations and maps of the theatres as they are discussed.
By Lauren Sagnella
