I’ll admit it - I’ve fallen for this book (technically for K-8, I know…). I got an advance copy a couple days ago and i am charmed. it is a really interactive book, with pull out playbills, flaps revealing the art of stage makeup, removeable letters from cast members, big bright pictures. the author, thomas schumacher, produced the lion king on broadway, but his official bio says: “Thomas Schumacher was born in California sometime during the last century. Before computers or fax machines. Before video games or color television. Before CDs and DVDs —but after Ethel Merman opened in Gypsy. That’s all anyone needs to know about that.”
I kind of love that. And also, the fact that he just announced today that he will give as many free copies as needed to every drama teacher in the tri-state area. i think they should also be issued standard to several adults. it’s smart but not pretentious, filled with things i didn’t know — like that “limelight” comes from the days when stages were lit by grinding up rocks and setting them aflame.
(note: thomas will be part of the new york times talks series, speaking in the nyt building at 10am on january 13. also, i apparently work for time out new york’s listings department now).
