The Show Makers

The Show Makers are twelve of the most creative and influential directors of the contemporary musical theatre. Lawrence Thelen creates lively portraits of theatre people at work. James Lapine’s early involvement with photography becomes an influence on Sunday in the Park with George. Harold Prince’s early desire to be a playwright is rechannelled into directing. George C. Wolfe speaks of the ongoing involvement of black artists with musicals since the last century. Jerome Robbins, in his final interview, on collaboration and the role of dance in the musical. Lawrence Thelen’s book is part theatre history, part interview volume, part celebration. Richly anecdotal, it communicates the passion and joy that motivate our wizards of the musical stage. Martin Charnin, Graciela Daniele, James Lapine, Arthur Laurents, Richard Maltby Jr., Des McAnuff, Mike Ockrent, Tom O’Horgan, Harold Prince, Jerome Robbins, George C. Wolfe, Jerry Zaks.

Author Biography

Lawrence Thelen is a director working primarily in the musical theatre. He holds degrees from U.S.C. and Washington State University. Originally from California, he resides in New Jersey with his wife, costume designer Irene V.Hatch.