Choreographing the Stage Musical

Live entertainment that draws on singing, acting and dancing has proved the most popular type of theatre all around the world and in all ages. Thousands of amateur dramatic societies overcome immense difficulties to mount their productions. Secondary schools and Colleges find staging a musical an ideal way to harness the vitality of large numbers of students. Vast sums of money are lavished on the production of a West End or Broadway musical. In all this a great deal depends on the skill and imagination of the choreographer. 'Choreographing the Stage Musical' is a comprehensive analysis of the problem facing the choreographer. The authors examine the rhythmic and melodic structure of the dance routines. They demonstrate the interaction of dance, music and acting. Throughout, the book is illustrated by drawings of figure groupings, diagrams showing movement on the stage and photographs of various professional productions. The appendices provide detailed analysis of five musicals and show how the choreographer works to prepare the dance routines. The book is intended primarily for those who wish to specialize in this aspect of musical theatre. At the same time not every production has the services of trained professionals: choreographer, director, musical director; many times it is a new choreographer that finds the show's choreography resting on his or her shoulders. They too will find what they need in 'Choreographing the Stage Musical'. The book assumes no previous experience in dance although dancers who find themselves in the role of choreographer will find it most valuable.