How Does the Show Go On?: An Introduction to the Theater

This book, written by the head of Disney Theatricals (Lion King, Aida, Mary Poppins, Tarzan, High School Musical, Beauty and the Beast), provides an engaging back-stage look at everything it takes to put on a show. The book is geared toward students more than, say, theatrical attorneys or seasoned pros. What makes it particularly special is the innovative design of the book. There are countless treasures to be found inside, which the reader can remove from the book, examine and learn from. (For those familiar with the Griffin & Sabine series, the removable love letters in those books come to mind). For example, when the book discusses the Box Office and Ticketing system, it includes a real envelope that the reader can open and take out a sample ticket for close eamination. When the book discusses stage lighting, there is a pouch with a removable script, complete with the hand-written markings that the lighting person works from. The discussion of make-up is nicely enhanced by a clear gel that the reader can lift up to see the actor without make-up and put down to show what he looks like fully made-up. The discussion of costumes includes reproductions of the actual design sketches from the Broadway production). These and other "exhibits" make reading the book a very interactive experience for the reader and gives real-world context to the information Mr. Schumacher is providing. The hard cover of the book opens in the center (like a gate on two hinges), immediately giving the impression of a curtain opening and setting the tone for the rest of the book. While the book focuses on the Disney shows mentioned above (except High School Musical, which was not a Broadway show--only a tour), that is not a limitation at all. They provide ample material to illustrate the points the author wants to make, and the photographs and illustrations are really wonderful. I think anyone interested in theater--or just curious about how things are done-- would enjoy this book and while it is, as I said, probably ideal for students (as young as 6, old as whatever--I enjoyed it and I am in my 30's) even a seasoned theater-goer would come away with at least handful of "I didn't know that" or "So THAT's how that's done!" moments. Absolutely worth the price of admission.

This is hands down one of the best books on theatre every written. The presentation is amazing, the photos are beautiful and the little bits and pieces of "hands on" theatre items are incredible. This book is NOT just for children (but aren't we all?), and I wish that it had been around YEARS ago. I just sent out 5 for Christmas presents and know that it is going to make a of smiles, "oh & awes", and "WOWs".

I would have given up my Donny Osmond album collection to have had this book when I was 13. My Inner Andrea McArdle never wanted this book to end! With every page turned, a new adventure and great information literally popped out at me...in a most delightful way. This book is at the top of my list for my surrogate nieces and nephews who go around humming songs from "Wicked" and "The Lion King" and who dream of shining onstage themselves one day. Two of them have had their noses planted in this incredible book for the past week with no signs of coming up for air anytime soon. Inspiring, informative, intelligent, and all-around wonderful....a "must buy" of effortless enjoyment for everyone, not just kids!

like the first reviewer...I wish I had something like this to read as a child...but I am sharing it with my niece and she has already been in some school productions and loves LOVES it! great job... I should add that ANY book by Jeff Kurtti is not only well researched and presented.. but can often become a treasured collectible as his book on the Sherman Brothers is, so get em while you can!

I wish I'd had this when I was a kid. I got a copy fresh off the presses and immediately ordered more for my nieces and nephews. I've always worked on the other side of the stage- in the business aspect- so it's even a great education for me!