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Oscar Hammerstein II and the Invention of the Musical

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Oscar Hammerstein II and the Invention of the Musical by Laurie Winer delves into the life and legacy of Oscar Hammerstein II, a pivotal figure in American musical theatre. The book explores how Hammerstein's innovative approach to storytelling through song and collaboration with other iconic composers transformed the musical landscape. It chronicles his influence on shaping the modern musical, highlighting his contributions to the genre without revealing specific plot spoilers.
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Format: Hardback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you have an interest in the development of musical theatre and want to explore the life and influence of one of its pivotal figures. This biography offers insight into how a visionary lyricist reshaped the landscape of American musicals, making it a captivating read for theatre enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Oscar Hammerstein II and the Invention of the Musical

A new look at artist Oscar Hammerstein II as a pivotal and underestimated force in the creation of modern American culture

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description
A new look at artist Oscar Hammerstein II as a pivotal and underestimated force in the creation of modern American culture

You know his work—Show Boat, Oklahoma!, Carousel, The King and I. But you don’t really know Oscar Hammerstein II, the man who, more than anyone else, invented the American musical. Among the most commercially successful artists of his time, he was a fighter for social justice who constantly prodded his audiences to be better than they were.

Diving deep into Hammerstein’s life, examining his papers and his lyrics, critic Laurie Winer shows how he orchestrated a collective reimagining of America, urging it forward with a subtly progressive vision of the relationship between country and city, rich and poor, America and the rest of the world. His rejection of bitterness, his openness to strangers, and his optimistic humor shaped not only the musical but the American dream itself. His vision can continue to be a touchstone to this day.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Laurie Winer's Oscar Hammerstein II and the Invention of the Musical is lauded for its engaging blend of biography and analysis, presenting a charming and insightful portrait of Hammerstein. Reviewers praise Winer's deep research and intuitive understanding of Hammerstein's character and contributions, noting her ability to convey the subject's likability and influence on the American musical. The book is described as an informative and entertaining read, offering new insights into Hammerstein's impact and showcasing the art of theatre collaboration.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300223798

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 28 March 2023

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 30 b-w illus.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 235.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 368

About the Author

A founding editor at the Los Angeles Review of Books, Laurie Winer has been a theater critic for the Wall Street Journal and the Los Angeles Times.

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