Reviews (19)

A sigh of relief
I read this book years ago....and it changed my life. I had struggled with depression since I was a teenager, but fought the idea of taking medication. In my day, emotional problems were a sign of "weakmindedness"...and something I kept well hidden. Anna's story took away the shame. I appreciate the work Patty Duke has done to take away the sigma of this illness. Reading this book almost 15 years ago gave me a sense of relief....I finally decided to try medication and my life has never been the same. The most profound statement....when people ask me how it feels to be on mind altering drugs...I say....I feel just like you.....I have good and bad days, but I am living a normal life now....not floating in a chemical high (as I thought the drugs would do....) be living a normal life....and thrilled to be alive. THANK YOU PATTY DUKE. P.S. Read her other book...I think it is called "A Brilliant Madness"...GREAT READ!

An Easy and Interesting Read
Anna Marie Duke aka Patty Duke wrote her autobiography because her mother told her to tell her story...and that she did. Ms. Duke had a very troubled and difficult childhood. She was basically thrown into the hands of managers who stripped her of her personality, her self-esteem and, perhaps worst of all, her identity all together. She moved through the world and devoured everything she could get a hold of. She became the youngest person to ever win an Academy Award.

This book shows you everything from her manager's forcing of in-depth study of dialects and hours of burdensome focus on details to her none-too-soon diagnosis with Manic Depression (aslso known as Bipolar Disorder and at one time known as Manic-Depressive Psychosis) and the Lithium that "saved her life."

This is a wonderful book for anyone interested in her condition, show business in general, and psychology. Highly recommended! :v)

A Must Have for all Manic-Depressives
When I was first diagnosed with this illness, I was lost and confused. This book answered many of my questions and made me realize that there was hope and positive days in my future. It especially helped when reading her next book "A Brilliant Madness". It gave me more insightful information that helped me not feel so hopeless and lost. I recommend these books above all the others that I have read at this time.

Search for Identity
While one has to applaud Patty Duke's attempt to come to grips with her experiences, one can also be critical of her presentation and her borderline psychobabble with which she excuses her behavior. The first third of the book is better than the remainder which descends into trite and cliched writing; Kenneth Turan evidently didn't do his job. Recommended only for fans or those who share her condition.

A look inside a bipolar mind
This provides an excellent first-hand account of what it is like to live with the powerful destructive and wonderfully creative aspects of Bipolar Disorder. It also reinforces the importance of appropriate, early diagnosis and treatment.

Sheryl Gurrentz, author
If Your Child is Bipolar ... Read more

Book Description

Communication for the Classroom Teacher provides prospective and current teachers with the skills and knowledge to develop, understand, and improve their own communication behavior as well as their students.' By combining theory and practical advice, this book focuses on the reasons for using certain communication strategies and how to implement them. Communication for the Classroom Teacher covers a wide range of classroom communication issues, including interpersonal and small group communication; listening skills; verbal and nonverbal communication; instructional strategies such as lecturing, discussions, and storytelling; teacher influence; ethical considerations; and racism/sexism in the classroom. For anyone interested in learning about classroom communication. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Common sense book with good ideas for classroom
This is the book of lists. It lists countless way s to enhance classroom communication. It is a relatively common sense book with creative names for common concepts. I liked the book, however, it was overpriced for the value. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (4)

BEST MUSICAL EVER!!!!!
Ok, ok...I haven't actually read the book, but I've seen the musical twice and have to say that it is AWESOME! Not just the singing, which you obviously can't find in this book, but the script as well, which you obviosly CAN find in this book! It's so funny! I have to tell you that this musical has made me into an obsessive freak: I wear the t-shirt, hang the poster on my wall (along with my ticket stubs, pictures, and postcard), tell my friends how great it is, listen to the soundtrack at least once a day so I don't go insane, and quote it almost every other minute! Ok, ok...this script won't make you THAT insane just because it made me. But you will love it! I know it's next on my list of things I want to buy! It's also nice for you people who didn't actually see the show, because it sadly *sniff* has closed.

Appalling
This is a personal opinion, but appalled is the only word I can use to describe this. And it's not really that musically interesting to me. The singing is excellent, but the story and the music.. that's another thing. Again, I know many people like it, but this is just not my cup of tea.

A Masterpiece in Every Way!!
This item is the script for the Broadway play. It contains every bit of dialogue, song lyrics, and blocking used in the Broadway Musical. This script is absolutely phenomenal. I've listened to the recording an innumberable number of times, have seen the show on Broadway, and have read the script several times since then. It is just so funny! I don't know how they came up with this crazy idea and ingenious music and lyrics and dialogue, but if you're looking for an amazingly funny script to read, this is it!
This book also includes some nice forwards by both the writer and composer, giving a long background on how this play came to be.
A "Must Have" for any fan of this show, any musical theatre fan, or any fan of insane comedy!

Everything but the Music
I thought that the book would include some of the sheet music to the songs which i enjoy so much, but it does not. You basically get a copy of the script with lyics to the songs (not much different from the booklet that accompanies the CD). ... Read more

Book Description

This practical book looks at the types of drawing used, equipment, materials commonly specified, surveying, and also covers building floors, flats, cloths, windows, doors, trucks, staircases, roofs, revolves, multi-story structures, and bridges. By addressing both theater and the commercial world this book will be of real help to a broad range of people in the theater industry. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Everything You Need To Know
I am a Scenic Designer for theatre and film. I work out of Los Angeles now but have travelled the world extensively with my work, and have designed and draughted shows for many of the top teatres and production companies. Never have I had the pleasure to see every nuance of this very complicated and specialised occupation covered so extensively. The book serves as an essential reader/guidebook for anyone who is embarking on a job in this or a related field, whilst also being incredibly useful to those of us who have been in the business for some time. The example drawings are beautifully displayed and explained with clarity in a precise and unpretentious language that suits everybody from the layman to the seasoned proffessional. I have nothing but admiration for John Blurton, who is himself one of the best in the business. Praise Heaven! Scenic Draughting has been delivered a Bible at last! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A wonderful book about a passionate endeavor.
This book is a beautiful account of the struggles and events surrounding Harold Clurman during his time with the Group Theater. Harold starts off by revealing how his life brought him to establish the Group along with Lee Strasberg and Cheryl Crawford. It then continues and describes the significant struggles and events encountered by the Group and its members along with some beautiful and extremely important observations Harold made, not only regarding the theater community and its participants, but also about our society in general and its effect on art in general.

This book is an absolute must for any serious actor or director. For that matter, anyone serious about life would gain from reading this book. The Group Theater was a wonderful "experiment" fostered by some very passionate people who not only helped to shape theater in America, but they also played a significant role in laying the groundwork from which some of the best acting and directing has emerged as seen in films and theater since that time.

I stand in disbelief when folks in the "business" don't know about Harold Clurman or the Group Theater and it members.

A magnificent and inspiring historical document
The Group Theatre, modeled off of the equally influencial Moscow Art Theatre, was an artistic organization that completely and drastically revolutionized not only American Theatre, but World Theatre as well.

Formed in the 1930's and comprised of what has become a literal who's who of Theatre: Clifford Odets, Elia Kazan, Harold Clurman, Robert Lewis, Stella Adler, Lee Strasberg, Cheryl Crawford, John Garfield, Sanford Meisner and many others, The Group Theatre sought to create a vibrant and organic native theatre that sought to not only mirror the times but also instigate radical social change.

At no other time in American history has an artistic group been comprised of so many talented individuals focused on one aesthetic and political goal. Despite one's political leanings (make no mistake, The Group Theatre were extreme leftest liberals), The Fervent Years provides and endless and bountiful amount of inspiration and stimulation for any theatre artist.

Clurman writes in a fine dramatic style that boils with passion, wit and insight. The Fervent Years is required reading for all devotees of The Theatre. But don't let that scare you, it is a most entertaining read at the same time.

A Motivating, Historical Piece
Admittedly, I read this under duress in my "Theatre History Seminar" course in college. However, it turned out to be one of the most inspiring pieces I have ever read.

_The Fervent Years_ chronicles the birth and triumph of The Group Theater. This group of actors, directors, producers, and theater enthusiasts sacrificed time, money, and easy fame to explore the roots of drama. The product of their efforts was the creation of a truly American style of theater.

Although the book has a decidedly theatrical spin, I think that all readers (from all backgrounds and interests) can benefit from reading this excellent piece. Right before I have to face a major challenge, I whip out my copy and give it another read.

Also, Clurman's self-centered, self-celebrating anecdotes never cease to amuse.

INSPIRING!
This is the book that inspired me to be an actor. It is all that the theatre should and could be. Every actor, director, teacher, should read this book. Clurman's passion and emotion is evident in every line. He is an amazing man and every actor in this country owes something to the Group.

Splendid!
Your not an actor till you read this. Period ... Read more

Book Description

The second edition of COSTUME DESIGN provides a basic introduction to costume design and takes students through the entire process of costume making, beginning with the idea for a costume to the final fit. The text is thoroughly illustrated, providing guidelines for the student for creating the figure and the costume design, examples of many styles of costume presentation, a guide to historical costume shapes, and scale drawings of the basic historical patterns with photos of them made up in muslin. Many theatre departments require all theatre majors take a course in costume design. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Cletus is the man
I have Cletus as my design teacher at Carnegie Mellon University this year. I have looked at the book, and it is definitely worth using and referring to regularly. The main thing to know is that Cletus has done everything, knows everything and really, he is the end all source of theatre, costume and artistic information and advice. He got through Yale School of Drama Grad program without ever turning in anything late... think about that. Now why would you choose another book?

The only book to cover concept and craft
I have used this book as the text in my Costume Design class for years and find it is the only one to my knowledge that covers both the conceptual aspects of costuming for the theatre as well the craft of rendering and construct. It even addresses historical information briefly. I was saddened to hear that the book was out of print. I am hoping a new edition will be out soon ... Read more

Book Description

"The Voice Actor's Guide to Home Recording" shows both aspiring and established voiceover actors how to set up and effectively use their own inexpensive?but professional-sounding?personal recording studio. Today's voiceover actors are increasingly producing voice tracks for corporate narration, radio spots, animation, games, and other dialogue projects from their own home studios. To survive in this highly competitive field, you need to learn and master basic production techniques. Authors Jeffrey P. Fisher and Harlan Hogan show you how to use a personal computer, reasonably-priced home-studio equipment, and the Internet to make professional-quality home recordings quickly and easily. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The best book on setting up your VO studio
As I was getting back into voice overs after a ten year hiatus, I needed a book to direct the assembly of a basic--but servicable--home VO studio.

There is a veritable plethora of material available on setting up home recording studios but none of them deal with the specific needs of voice actors.

Written by a VO veteran and a computer recording engineer who teaches at the college level, the authors combine to assist any voice over actor with all of the tools necessary to get started and set up with a very good VO studio.

And the tools and techniques they espouse won't cost you a lot of money. Their wisdom is practical, witty and to the point, and highly recommended for VO novices and pros alike.

The best on voice-over reality!!

I have Arlan's/J.P. Fisher's latest book and it's just fantastic.

I am a working pro for a number of years. I have read a number of VO books and they don't touch his stuff at all, the rest are for dreamers and the inept. A. Hogan writes passionately from the soul !!

His no non-sense but whimsical point of view flows from beginning to end as in his first book on "Tales & Techniques".

It's not about makinglots of money but his hands on approach to the Voice-Over biz. He won't let you down. Read it!!

Peter Mason

Great How to Book for Voice Actors
This book is filed with great advice and ideas.I now have nearly all my home studio equipment to do voice over work from home.I got more for my money and top notch equipment from make choices based on this book.THere are also poiners on how to record better and demystificaton of studio jargon.THIS BOOK IS A MUST FOR AND VO. ... Read more

Book Description

The was the unofficial empress of Hollywood and she spent a lifetime as the mistress of one of America's richest men. Gathered from tapes recroded a decade before Marion Davie's death, read, in her own words, the story of a fantastic and glittering life, as never told before.
... Read more

Reviews (5)

Interesting but a bit dumb
I picked up this book durring a recent trip to San Semion thinking it would be fun to hear all the wild and crazy things that happened in the castle. Well I got that partly, but I enjoyed it more for it's portrayal of early Hollywood. Hearing stories like Davies and Clarke Gable ditching the debut of Gone With The Wind (it was too long) to make prank calls are too good to pass up.

On the surface, Davies seems to have a terrific life of parties, fashion, socialites and more than enough money to spare. But then you realize that she didn't particularly like making movies, hobknobbing with world leaders or going places that Mr. Hearst did. She was just a slightly ditzy girl wanting to romp and have a good time. I felt sorry for most of the time and it got a bit depressing. But it's her free spirited nature that makes to book as enjoyable as it is. Although,I must admit to putting it down to read something a bit more substantial a few times.

A fun read...
Marion Davies truly was blonde! This book is fun to read because she tells all her stories is a light, "airheady" way. She wasn't a dumb blonde by any means, but she has no problem revealing semi-private and semi-embarrasing things. I enjoy reading about Marion and W.R. and if you are interested in what life was like at San Simeon, this book will not disappoint! The book is also heavily illustrated! It is a funny, lovable story!

Marion Davies was a "funny girl."
I love it when I find a book that can make me laugh out loud. This one did/does. I get it out and read it again sometimes when I need a pick-me-up. I can see why "WR" loved her. Her childlike sense of fun, her love of animals, her loyalty to friends, just to name a few. Her loyalty and devotion to "WR" would stand out at a time when he was in dire financial straits. Also, this book is interesting in that it gives us a glimpse of the golden era of Hollywood. There are serious moments in the book, but overall it is light-hearted and amusing. She wasn't really shallow or an air-head. The girl just liked to have fun!

A Great Book about a WONDERFUL actress and a GREAT Person!
This book is a must for anyone who is even remotely interested in Hollywood's Golden Era. Marion Davies was a great actress in the silent era, and continued into the 1930's. She not only gave wonderful parties that were the talk of the town, but she was one of the most generous, giving, loving people of all time. She started her own children's clinic, and gave plenty of money to charities. If she heard that a crew member's father needed an operation, she'd give him the money. That was the type of wonderful person Marion was. This book is definately worth buying!

What a waste
This book was worthwhile only in the sense that it provided an opportunity to learn just how shallow and spoiled Marion Davies was. Her life apparently consisted of endless parties, trips to Europe (with her complaining all the while), and playing viscious pranks on her so called friends. Her fascination with Hitler, hatred of Irish and Southernors didn't help.

This book was pretty depressing, but it did make me realize how lucky I am to not have anything to do with people like that! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

A great play
Labute has once again proved to be one of the great authors of the 20th/21st century. His style allows one to grab into characters, not only because of their actions, but because they are one of our own. These people remind of us us. Of ourselves. We see things we do not like, but must understand. The Mercy Seat is just the latest example of an amazing work, but one of the great American authors around today.

Interesting character piece...
Labute masterminded "In the Company of Men," "Your Friends and Neighbors," the absolutely brilliant, "The Shape of Things," now brings to the stage, "Mercy Seat". Set the day after September 11, "Mercy Seat" is the story of Ben Harcourt and Abby Prescott. Set in Abby's downtown apartment, the play explores their relationship and selfishness in light of a national tragedy. The ending, as any play from Labute--comes as a surprise, sadly, the climax is somewhat of a let down. I'm not going to give away the ending and I'm well aware of what the relationship is there to show/represent, but I think my biggest problem with, "Mercy Seat" was that I didn't care about that characters, through out the majority of the play there fighting or nagging at each other. It got to the point where I would rather them shut up, than reveal anything to progress the story. I like the idea behind "Mercy Seat," the thought that two people could be a couple of blocks away from this disaster and be so caught up in themselves... I just don't think it was executed as well as it could have been. In the end, we just don't care--there are bigger and better things going on outside that window and Ben and Abby...well, it seems like they're just there. If you've never read Labute, pick up a copy of "Shape of Things," you will NOT regret it. If you've never seen Labute, go out and rent, "In the Company of Men". If you LOVE Labute, go ahead with "Mercy Seat," it's not bad, it's still witty and clever, and the dialouge is just incredible--back and forth, back and forth, he really owns this relationship, but it's just not his best. This is character piece... ... Read more

Book Description

A noted screenwriter himself, Pulitzer Prize-winner Larry McMurtry knows his Hollywood. In Film Flam, he takes a funny, original, and penetrating look at the movie industry and gives us the truth about the moguls, fads, flops, and box-office hits.

With successful movies and television miniseries made from several of his novels -- Terms of Endearment, The Last Picture Show, Lonesome Dove, and Hud -- McMurtry writes with an outsider's irony of the industry and an insider's experience. In these essays he illuminates the plight of the screenwriter, cuts a clean, often hilarious path through the excesses of film reviewing, and takes on some of the worst trends in the industry: the decline of the Western, the disappearance of love in the movies, and the quality of the stars themselves.

From his recollections of the day Hollywood entered McMurtry's own life as he ate meat loaf in Fort Worth to the pleasures he found in the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, Film Flam is one of the best books ever written about Hollywood. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Brilliant, Insightful Work
I've never been a huge fan of McMurtry, so I was reluctant to read, and even more hesitant to enjoy, this work.However, it took me quite by surprise.Film Flam is a look at the author's experience in the film world.Ever since his first novel, Horseman Pass By, was turned into afilm (Hud), McMurtry has had a murky relationship with Hollywood.He tellsus what it is like when someone attempts the impossible: to translate thelanguage of fiction into the visual-aural composite of film.This book iswitty, insightful, and entertaining. ... Read more

Book Description

Revised to reflect the latest thinking and trends in managing organizations and people, Management and the Arts, Third Edition provides the reader with the practical tools necessary to manage an arts organization. The class-tested questions in each chapter help the reader to integrate the material and develop ideas as to how the situations and problems could have been handled. New case studies focus on the challenges facing managers and organizations every day, and new "In The News" quotes give the reader real-world examples of principles and theories. A new chapter focuses on developing career skills and options. Graduate school options and postgraduate training opportunities are discussed and professional organizations and conferences are highlighted.

The reader will gain useful insights into management from such topics as:

* The theories and processes behind strategic planning and decision making
* Staffing and personal relations
* The tools and techniques available from communicating effectively and keeping track of information ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Important basics for all arts managers
William Byrnes' book is obviously one of only a few books touching all aspects of arts management today. Readers will learn how arts organizations and arts management evolved, the theories and processes behind strategic planning and decision-making, and how to integrate various management theories with practical applications to this type of organization. Of course, not all of Byrnes' examples lets copy into other cultural markets, but there are a lot of general basics for arts managers and administrators worldwide. We can really advise to buy this publication.

Text book
A good book to get a general survey of issues in the arts management field. As an overview, it necessarily glosses over details in areas such as the history of arts management, economics/accounting, daily operation strategies. Great for presenting theory-great for examples of how other arts organizations have implemented theory. Slightly geared towards performing arts organizations but quite useful to all arts managers. ... Read more

Book Description

Up-to-the-minute resources make this revised edition more indispensable than ever for any actor trying to break into, survive, and succeed in Hollywood.

Beginning with leads on finding a place to live and practical jobs to pay the bills, the book then gets into tactics for landing an agent, auditions, a SAG union card, and work as a movie extra. Advice from seasoned actors and other film pros emphasizes building rsum credits by working in student films, public access TV, and other showcase productions seen by casting directors. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Has some good advice
I liked this book it had some good tips and how-to advice.
I also loved Twelve Step Plan To Becomming An Actor in LA
It is a work book which guides you through your first year.
Itis written by a therapist,so it also teaches YOU how to take care of yourself emotionally, which is Key. Buy them both and have an edge over the competition ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Thoughtfull, touching, entertaining, classical literature
I first read this book (actually it is a play) in highschool and though I generally hated to be forced to read a book I really loved this one. I finished way ahead of schedule.

The reason: this book is extremely verywell and has an up-to-date message even though it was written several 100years back. The story is abou a Jewish merchant called Nathan, a templarand Nathan's daughter and the love between the templar and the daughter andthe conflicts arising from it.

It is set in the time of the crusades andits message is: it does not matter which religion you believe in as long asyou are a decent human being. This message was only written in a playbecause the author was officially forbidden from teaching hisreconciliatory views on religion in university! It must have been ahardship for him, but today we can enjoy a literary masterpiece for justthat reason. For me it is a perfect book and it might very well be the samefor you. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Indispensable actor's resource
I have found "Accents" an indispensable addition to this actor's book shelf. It is careful, complete, scholarly yet a thoroughly enjoyable read. Actors facing tough accents will breath a sigh of relief when they find the enclosed CD. I've been cast as Van Helsing, the dutch professor in "Dracula" at Fauquier Community Theater, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge, some 50 miles west of D.C. After absorbing the chapter on dutch accents, reviewing the CD and practicing diligently, I feel I mastered the accent at much the same pace as memorization of the script. That competence has translated to earlier-than-normal layering of character well before opening.I also found the author, Mr. Blumenfeld, very friendly and forthcoming with additional guidance. This is a gem, and I recommend it to friends in theatre. And to those who are convinced they have an accent "down pat," compare yourself to the CD and prepare to be humbled and learn.

INCREDIBLE
Wow, when I went looking for a book to help me learn how to do accents I had no idea I'd find this. It seems to cover just about every American accent you could want. The CD that is included with it is invaluable. Within just a few days I was speaking like an English Gentleman. I have been trying to get that accent down for years. I work in a popular cafe here in Hollywood. We get many customers from London. I can even fool them. They ask me what part I'm from. They are amazed when I turn the accent off. Then, just for kicks, I'll start talking like I'm from Kentucky or the Bronx. This book is great for everyone who wants to add spice to their personalities, not just actors. Did I mention I get more dates when I use the accents I learned from this book?

The Accents Are TERRIBLE
Though the book is helpful, you need to be able to HEAR accents to practice & learn them. Unfortunately, the accents on these tapes are so inaccurate that you risk being run out of the prospective countries were you to actually try them!

CD a let down
This book covers an astonishingly wide range of accents and is packed full of information on vowel and consonant shifts and intonation patterns, but an accent cannot be learned from a book alone. This is where the CD had the potential to be incredibly helpful, but it is instead its biggest flaw.

The accents for the British Isles and Australia/New Zealand are, almost without exception awful. At best they are gross caricatures of the accents, at worst they are completely unidentifiable. To his credit he usually lists examples of films to see for examples of the accent, and this is indeed where I would suggest that people start. The accents that he performs are curiously stilted and exaggerated, and to me sound like an accent would sound if learnt from a book. I cannot authoratively comment on the North American accents as I have never lived there for any length of time, but to me even the American accents sounds stilted compared with what I hear in films and on TV. The foreign language accents are more debatable as so much depends on how the person in question has learnt English.

I'll give you an example - in the chapter on Australian accents he states that the A sound tends towards an I, so 'day' becomes 'die'. Whilst this is certainly an Australian tendency, it is a subtle shift, and the degree of this shift can only really be ascertained from listening to a native. Simply replacing 'day' with 'die' (as he does on the CD) makes you sound like a caricature. Everybody I've played the CD to has been in fits of laughter.

Don't get me wrong, I think there's a lot of useful information in this book, but the CD is very dangerous if anybody thinks that they're hearing authentic accents.

Interesting, at best
This book provides interesting history lessons regarding lingual development, and is moreso a great glossary of references (for the full-time linguistics student) than a handbook for actors as it purports to be. It's hard to read what he writes when he "spells" accents, as many of his phonetic symbols rely more on a presumed knowledge of the accents than examples. I've been all over the world, too, and don't find any of the accents on his CD to be convincing for the people I've met and places I've been to. Perhaps his "accents" would be a good representation for the way radio anouncers and news casters who try to minimize accents speak. But that is all. ... Read more

Book Description

A landmark work in the study of Black theater and drama, African American Theatre offers the first comprehensive history of a major cultural phenomenon until now too often neglected.In this fast-paced investigation, Hay seeks out the origins of Black theater in social protest, as envisioned by W.E.B. Dubois, and as a formal branch of arts theater.Divided between these opposing forces--the activist and the artistic--Black theater, Hay argues, faced conflicts of identity whose traces still haunt the medium today. African American Theatre thus offers a means of locating Black theater in the larger context of American theater and in the continuum of African American history from the nineteenth century to the present--and in doing so offers a profile of dramatic expression shaped and scarred by the forces of repression, of self-affirmation, and of subversion.Sweeping in scope, original in approach and provocatively written, this important book mines the origins and influences directing Black theater, while charting a course for its future survival. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Definitely worthwhile
African American Theatre: An Historical and Critical Analysis", by Samuel A. Hay, is a must for every theatre enthusiast who has long realized that general works on Theater History show an appalling lack in dealing with the contribution of the African American community to theatre (like so many other 'histories'!). The first two chapters of Hay's book provide a very dense history of African American theatre from 1898 to the present and correspond to the two major schools of African American theatre: the Black Experience School of Drama, and the Black Arts School of Drama, the first based on Alain Locke's philosophy, the second on the teachings of sociologist William E. B. DuBois.The classification of the two schools into periods, classes and subclasses gets very confusing very fast, but Hay provides a helpful outline of the divisions at the beginning of his book.I admit that Hay's system of classification presented a problem for me: I have never liked people putting everything into preconceived little boxes.This first part of the book is very informative, but also extremely dense. The last three chapters of Hay's book comprise the 'critical analysis' portion, which simultaneously works as a very passionate appeal to African American theatre enthusiasts/students to persevere and help keep African American theatre alive.

I definitely recommend this book to all African American theatre students and to everyone else who is seriously interested in all aspects of theatre history, and who has long suspected that there might be more to African American theatre than "A Raisin in the Sun". It's not easy reading, but definitely worthwhile.

Definitely worthwhile
African American Theatre: An Historical and Critical Analysis", by Samuel A. Hay, is a must for every theatre enthusiast who has long realized that general works on Theater History show an appalling lack in dealing with the contribution of the African American community to theatre (like so many other 'histories'!). The first two chapters of Hay's book provide a very dense history of African American theatre from 1898 to the present and correspond to the two major schools of African American theatre: the Black Experience School of Drama, and the Black Arts School of Drama, the first based on Alain Locke's philosophy, the second on the teachings of sociologist William E. B. DuBois.The classification of the two schools into periods, classes and subclasses gets very confusing very fast, but Hay provides a helpful outline of the divisions at the beginning of his book.I admit that Hay's system of classification presented a problem for me: I have never liked people putting everything into preconceived little boxes.This first part of the book is very informative, but also extremely dense. The last three chapters of Hay's book comprise the 'critical analysis' portion, which simultaneously works as a very passionate appeal to African American theatre enthusiasts/students to persevere and help keep African American theatre alive.

I definitely recommend this book to all African American theatre students and to everyone else who is seriously interested in all aspects of theatre history, and who has long suspected that there might be more to African American theatre than "A Raisin in the Sun". It's not easy reading, but definitely worthwhile. ... Read more

Book Description

This is the only complete and up-to-date book profiling every major pianist (thousands) and their essential repertoire and recordings. This third edition is completely revised (second edition: 1995 Harvest Books, ISBN# 0-15-600019-9), with hundreds more entries and updated information about existing entries. The book contains a CD for the first time featuring rare performances. "For all those interested in the piano, this book will provide great insight and knowledge. It must be read by everyone who loves the instrument." - Vladimir Horowitz "The Art of the Piano is the best companion a piano aficionado could ask for." - Baltimore Sun ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A good reference and a good read
Almost full marks to Mr. Dubal for his excellent and ambitious effort. It is a good reference and interesting read - at times. The only drawback it is not very well written from an English literature point of view, it could definately be smoother, although there are lots of interesting descriptions and discussions. The second drawback is that Mr. Dubal is a die hard Horowitz fan, perhaps a little too much. No body can argue against Horowitz qualities, but it needs to be toned down a little in a book of this nature.

pianowizard@hotmail.com
It's the best book on pianists I have read. I always consult this book instead of the Penguin Guide or the Gramophone Good CD Guide.

Must Own Book For Any Piano Enthusiast
Simply I would put, "Must-own for all piano enthusiasts." It's really interesting to read through this book although it looks like a dictionary, as it contains a lot of gossips that might be taken from his interview with many pianists. Sometimes he put too much importance on his own favorite pianists (i.e., Horowitz), but still fun to read. I hope this book continues to grow its contents as time passes, if possible for him.

An excellent guide to the piano and its masters!
This is an excellent book! Extremely informative. Mr.Dubal has done a wonderful job researching this material out. The CD guide in the back is a very helpful resource. It has helped me make many good purchases. A must have for pianists, teachers, and students. His book "Reflections from the Keyboard" is also a great book to have.

A good reference
If you have any question, consult this fantasic little booklet, filled with information. A first-aid book. ... Read more

Book Description

B> Setting dance within a cultural context that is both understandable and interesting, this insightful reference captures the true art form of dance and traces the activity of dance as it existed down through the ages and all over the world.Beginning with the origins of dance and moving on to what takes place on Western dance stages today, this volume offers a sweeping overview of primitive, ethnic, and folk dance forms ... examines the major branches of Western dance art including ballet from its inception in 16th century Europe, modern dance, jazz, avant-garde, and the international eclectic contemporary scene ... tracks the repertory, technical training of performers, and creative theory of the many traditions that unify this art form ... includes discussions of significant dancers, their contributions, and the performers that inspired them; the background of period styles; pertinent ideas of major choreographers; capsule biographies of outstanding dance artists; effects of music and design on choreography; national characteristics of dance; the psychology of performers; and coverage on such concepts as Classic, Romantic, and Avant-garde to clarify trends and invoke thought on the Dance Art and society ... and makes many comparisons to current day events.Suitable for anyone involved or interested in dance history. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Best Book Ever Written
This book has brought me back from the cusp of darkness to a state of enlightened euphoria in which I shall remain forever. If you do not own this book, you will be condemned to a firey hell.

This is the greatest book ever
This book has brought me back from the cusp of darkness to a state of enlightened euphoria in which I shall remain forever. If you do not own this book, you will be condemned to a firey hell. ... Read more

Book Description

After several years in secondary film roles, the skeletal, menacing Christopher Lee achieved horror-flick stardom as the Creature in 1958's THE CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN, the second of his 21 Hammer Studios films. Other Lee roles of note include the title character in 1959's THE MUMMY and the Fu Manchu series of the '60s, the bloody-thirsty Count Dracula and of course the villainous Scaramanga in the 1974 James Bond classic THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN. Established as a legend in his own right, Lee went on to appear in films ranging from GREMLINS (1990) to Tim Burton's SLEEPY HOLLOW (1999).In 2001, after appearing in nearly 300 film and television productions, the 79-year-old actor undertook the role of Saruman, chief of all wizards, in director Peter Jackson's eagerly anticipated screen adaptation of Tolkien's LORD OF THE RINGS. Arguably one of the most demanding roles of his career, audiences marvelled at the wondrous battle between Saruman and Gandalf (Ian McKellen) atop the wizard's ominous tower. Shortly after, wielding a lightsaber against one of the most powerful adversaries in the STAR WARS canon, Lee proved that even at 80 he still had what it takes to be a compelling and demanding screen presence.Recounted with Lee's characteristic self-deprecating wit and hilarious anecdotes, LORD OF MISRULE narrates the astonishing career of the man the GUARDIAN describes as simply 'the coolest actor on the planet'. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Not enough on films
Christopher Lee has made many movies, but doesn't talk about many of them in this book.Instead, the first half of the book is endless family background and his war experiences.Finally, he talks about some of his films, only to repeatedly interrupt with golf stories.His look back at old friends (Cushing, Price, Karloff, even Robert Bloch) are warm and wonderful, but are much too short, barely covering one chapter.The book does have several good points, in addition to his remembering old friends.He never boasts about any of his performances, nor does he put down anyone he's ever worked with on film.

"Lord" rules
Few actors have done as much as well as Christopher Lee has. Acting in hundreds of movies, this impressive British thespian has had a life even more interesting than his career. In "Lord of Misrule," Lee describes his long life with humor and solemn clarity, and with almost too many stories for the book to hold.

Christopher Carandini Lee was born in 1922, to an Italian countess (who was descended from Italian royalty) and a soon-gone British soldier. His was an unusual childhood masked by a conventional British schoolboy's life. At the age of seventeen his world (along with his stepfather's finances) suddenly began to come apart. He fought in World War II, in the Royal Air Force, only to dip back into acting.

Lee rapidly became known as one of the best villains of the movie business, playing Dracula alone a staggering ten times. Here he recounts how he acted with legendary actors like Errol Flynn (who mangled his finger) or his good pal, monster great Boris Karloff (complete with lisping jokes); his marriage; the good, bad and ugly of his varied career; and finally two of his most prominent roles: the evil wizard Saruman of J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings," and Count Dooku of the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy."

Technically, "Lord of Misrule" isn't an entirely new book -- it was once published as "Tall Dark and Gruesome." But here it's updated with new information and photographs from the past few years. Not to mention a friendly foreword by "Lord of the Rings" director Peter Jackson, which serves as a good warm-up.

Lee himself has a very formal, erudite way of writing, sprinkled with literary references to P.G. Wodehouse and G.K. Chesterton. (And Tolkien, of course) But don't think this book is stuffy. If anything, the eighty-plus years of Lee's life zip by too fast. He clearly has a wealth of stories to tell, and the book is barely big enough to contain them.

Lee also strikes a good balance between humor and darkness. In one taut anecdote, he describes how his daughter was born with deformed feet. In another, he wryly describes how he used to scurry across the Italian border dressed as a girl. It's also augmented by plenty of photos. Some are professional photos, but many are personal photos -- Lee with his wife and daughter, or his friends, at his investiture, or as a bright-eyed baby.

Very few actors have lived a life even half as interesting as the roles they have played, but Christopher Lee is one of the few. And "Lord of Misrule" is a fascinating, captivating read about a unique person.

Fans of Lee will relish his candid assessment of his films
Christopher Lee's background in film and his moving career in a host of cult and mainstream classics are detailed in his autobiography LORD OF MISRULE, reflecting on some of his most demanding film appearances, his life, and his movie memories. Fans of Lee will relish his candid assessment of his films in general and the movie industry in particular. ... Read more

Book Description

The gyp, hoodwink, shuck, sandbag: An artform that has been passed down through generations of hustlers, con men, and freaks. Selling snake oil is the ultimate con, and readers will find within these pages everything from classic deceptions to the most recent of ruses. From fooling your friends to dangerous stage stunts, Jim Rose, snake oil salesman extraordinaire, provides new angles to old tricks. Those who dare to explore these pages will find themselved enticed by this special brand of snake oil. Step right up: it's all here. There's nothing it won't cure! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Master work by the circus master
I'd have given this book five stars but for the fact the book was shorter than I'd have liked and some of the info doubles up in subsiquent chapters.However having gotten my very small beef out of the way this book is fascinating.If you ever fantisize about joining the circus or becoming a con man then you'll love this book!!!From mentalism to sword swallowing, from pimping to card sharping.More scams than you can shake a stick at. ... Read more

Book Description

John Dover Wilson's What Happens in Hamlet is a classic of Shakespeare criticism. First published in 1935, it is still being read today throughout the English-speaking world and has been widely translated. Hamlet has excited more curiosity and aroused more debate than any other play ever written. Is Hamlet really mad? Does he really see his father's ghost, or is it an illusion? Is the ghost good or bad? What does it all mean? Dover Wilson brings out the significance of each part of the complex action, against the background. His analysis of the play emphasises Shakespeare's dramatic art and shows how the play must be seen and heard to be understood. This is a readable, entertaining and scholarly book. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Find and readThe Heart of Hamlet in addition to this book
While Wilson's book is an interesting and worthwhile read, a far better book is The Heart of Hamlet by Bernard Grebanier (now sadly out of print). By a close reading of the play, particularly in terms of plot structure, coupled with a knowledge of the Elizabethan mind, Grebanier convincingly dismantles many of Wilson's interpretations. Some of Grebanier's major points, which are opposed to Wilson (and many commentators): Hamlet is not mad and never pretends to be; Hamlet does not procrastinate or hesitate, except for good reason; his tragic flaw is that not that he hesitates (or can't make up his mind) but that he is too rash; Hamlet is a man of action, capable of brutality, caught in extraordinary circumstances, not an etherial, delicate romantic philosopher; "To be or not to be" is not about suicide.

Having studied the play, reading many commentaries on it prior to directing it, I found Grabanier's book to be generally (not always) on target, where Wilson's left me very unsatisfied. Read both, and make up your own mind.

A real discovery for a non-english speaking reader
For many years I questioned myself about Shakespeare's greatness and I did not find any answer in italian translations , perhaps because of the treachery nature of the translation itself: the Wilson's precise and meticulous analysis of Hamlet's tragedy enabled me to fully appreciate plot,carachters, and witty shakespearean art.
I strongly recommend this book to beginners, expecially of non-english-native language

The Road to Elsinore
A magnificent book! I'm so glad they came out with a new edition of this book so I had the chance to purchase it (even if I was a bit dismayed to see Mel Gibson on the cover instead of Kenneth Branagh)! My friend had the older edition, which I borrowed frequently while taking a Shakespeare course. Each scene is covered in depth, almost like a summary. It might actually be better titled "What Happens TO Hamlet" because once you finish the book, you feel like you know the man! Great for any student of Shakespeare, or for that matter, anyone interested in Shakespeare or the Prince of Denmark at all!

Dover Wilson Plucks Out the Heart of Hamlet's Mystery
If you could only own one book of analysis on Shakespeare's greatest play, Hamlet, then it ought to be John Dover Wilson's What Happens in Hamlet. Dover Wilson examines and answers many questions that had baffled generations of Shakespearean scholars: Hamlet's delay; Claudius' actions during the dumb show; Hamlet and Lucianus, the nephew of Gonzago; Hamlet's relationship with Ophelia, and with his mother. Dover Wilson's extensive knowledge of the customs and vocubulary of Elizabethan England help explore Hamlet's melancholy and the nature of ghosts during the time of Shakespeare. As a bonus, Dover Wilson responds to T.S. Eliot, who considered Hamlet "a dramatic failure." A must for anyone who loves Shakespeare!

Hands down, the best book
This is the best book on Hamlet that I've come across. Dover Wilson breaks down the show into themes - Gertrude's sin, feigned madness etc - and takes the reader in depth into the play. He provides historical background on the history of Denmark, Elizabethan history, ghosts in drama and really gives the most accurate interpretations that I've come across.

I highly recommend this book. ... Read more