Book about Broadway show production?

[TonyVincent]

Posted: 10/13/10 at 2:25pm

My grandfather gave me the opportunity to share part of his investment in one of this fall's shows, so I'd like to use it as an opportunity to learn more about the logistics of Broadway production in case I want to get more actively involved in Broadway investing/production in the future. Is there any kind of "Broadway Production for Dummies" resource that breaks down types of expenses, show development structures/processes, etc., so I have a better idea what I'm looking at when I'm considering a prospectus? I'm decently well-versed just from having been involved in amateur productions, following developing shows as well as grosses on here, etc., but would like a more formal education.

[WOSQ]

Posted: 10/13/10 at 3:49pm

The League of American Theatres and Producers sponsors a seminar annually for would-be producers. It lasts 3-5 days. Start Googling.

There is no one way to learn to produce.

The first thing I would do is read the prospectus for the show your grandfather just bought into. You can learn a whole lot from the fine print. Keep a copy for a long time.

I'd read main points of what the differences between an LP, a LLP, an LLC, a corporation, a joint venture, etc, are. This would be in any corporate reference. The same rules apply whether its a Broadway show or a smuggling ring.

Read weekly Variety. Expensive, but you learn a lot from just reading the stories and learning to read between the lines.

There are many, many books (old and new) that incorporate producing into them: The Season by Goldman (60s), The Producer (about Hilly Elkins from the 70s), and The Abominable Showman about David Merrick which is comparatively recent. Start browsing The Strand. For that matter, The Drama Book Shop too.

As in most specialized fields, you learn by doing. Working for a producer can teach you a lot.

The Shuberts and the Nederlanders are real estate companies. They are not a good place to learn to produce. Jujamcyn is a bit better.

Steer clear of Fran and Barry. They are bad news and will blame you or someone, anyone, when things go wrong. They sue a lot too.

Updated On: 10/14/10 at 03:49 PM

[BrodyFosse123]

Posted: 10/13/10 at 5:02pm

To quote a well-respected Broadway producer: NEVER invest using your own money. NEVER!

May Broadway producers have silent 'angels' --- people who privately lend their money to these producers without receiving any credit. Many of them are in a financial position where they can afford to lose a few bucks here and there, so they don't care about not recouping their investment back... which most shows NEVER do.

[SondheimFan5]

Posted: 10/13/10 at 5:41pm

I got a great book a couple years ago at the Drama Bookshop, I think it is called "The Guide to Producing Plays and Musicals" and it is mainly essays by great Broadway producers, marketing directors, etc. It covers all areas. Highly recommended.