SOMETHING WONDERFUL

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Broadway Revolution
by Todd S. Purdum

I’m not usually a big biography gal, probably because I have read more than a few boring ones, often of playwrights I admire.  So this book sat on my shelf for a while, despite my dad’s hearty recommendation.  Lesson learned: listen to dad.

For those who don’t know, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II make up what is arguably the most famous and successful musical theatre writing team of all time. They are responsible for the massive and enduring hits Oklahoma, Carousel, The King and I, South Pacific and The Sound of Music. This book gives a wonderful background for both men and a glimpse into the work (successful and not successful) they did before teaming up. But what I love so much about this book is how focused it is on the plays themselves.  Having grown up watching the film versions of several of these masterpieces, and even acting in one or two as a child, to learn the story behind the iconic lyrics or the casting choices or even the costumes was fascinating.

Rodgers and Hammerstein worked during, and are largely responsible for, what is known as the Golden Age of musical theatre. They were the first to interweave songs and scenes in a way that kept the story moving and reflected the characters who were singing. In every show they wrote, several songs would become hits in their own right and top the music charts for years.  Even if you’ve never seen an R&H show, I bet you’ve heard the song “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” (Hint: Renee Fleming sang it at President Obama’s inauguration!)
 
I’m sure if you don’t harbor a deep childhood love for the work of these two genises, this book may mean a little less to you.  But if you are at all interested in the process of making theatre, particularly writing it, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. (Lily)