#1
Posted: 2/26/08 at 4:51am
I've noticed in many review type posts on these boards criticisms are particularly harsh on the "book" from current musicals. I'm curious about what others think are the best "books" (librettos) of musical shows (broadway, off-broadway or beyond)? And what constitutes a great book? Who historically do you consider the best "book" writer? I've been writing a book for a musical, which has been both a total pleasure and incredibly difficult!! (:
My own favorite book is James Goldman's "Follies" - I've read many criticisms of this particular book but I feel that it does it's job perfectly, letting us know who the characters are and serving as connective tissue to the brilliant songs. "Urinetown" has an exceptional book. "Jersey Boys" served it's story very well.
I'm one who enjoys the old books, too, and don't believe they need to be "updated" or made "politically correct". I esp. love the book of "DuBarry Was a Lady" - I've never understood how it is that we can love old movies, and not demand they change their dialogue, but can't seem to wrap our minds around loving old books of musicals (they are always criticized as "outdated", blah blah blah)
My own favorite book is James Goldman's "Follies" - I've read many criticisms of this particular book but I feel that it does it's job perfectly, letting us know who the characters are and serving as connective tissue to the brilliant songs. "Urinetown" has an exceptional book. "Jersey Boys" served it's story very well.
I'm one who enjoys the old books, too, and don't believe they need to be "updated" or made "politically correct". I esp. love the book of "DuBarry Was a Lady" - I've never understood how it is that we can love old movies, and not demand they change their dialogue, but can't seem to wrap our minds around loving old books of musicals (they are always criticized as "outdated", blah blah blah)
