Features
- Cover Type: Paperback with 376 pages
- Published by: Da Capo Press
- Edition: Revised Edition March 21, 1992
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0306804689
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0306804687
-
Book Dimensions:
9 x 7 x 1 inches
- Weighs: 1.7 pounds
Product Description
Gordon explicates the works of Sondheim to repudiate the common perception of musical theater as mere escapist entertainment, showing how Sondheim tackles real, complex subjects, without fear of introducing pain, trauma, and difficult ideas onto the Broadway stage.
About The Author
Joanne Gordon is Head of the Directing Program at California State University. Art Isn't Easy, writeen with the full cooperation of Sondheim himself, is her first book.
Reader ReviewsThis book takes us musical-by-musical through some of the most famous and artistically valuable of Sondheim's musicals (the latest entry being Assassins). Each chapter looks at the musical with a critical eye (or listens with a critical ear, as the case may be) and responds to criticism about the musical in question. This is not a book simply about selling Sondheim - when the author is unimpressed, she lets us know. But Gordan finds much to admire in Sondheim's musicals, and helps us to appreciate that. Each chapter outlines in detail the plot, characters, and songs - especially useful for in-depth study. You can't get much more specific without actually taking out the libretto or following along in the score! All her arguments are well-founded and supported with examples from the text. The use of lyrics is especially appropriate. This book is especially valuable from a literary and theatrical standpoint. The observations on the music itself are correct, but not plentiful, as Gordan's expertise is in theatre, not music. Accessible to the casual audience member and the Sondheim groupie.
Search for books at
