New DK Book, "Musicals: The Definitive Illustrated Story" to be released in October

From The Phantom of the Opera and The Sound of Music to Les Misérables, Musicals: The Definitive Illustrated Story brings the world's best-loved productions to life.

The complete history of the musical is covered; from its earliest origins in dance halls and vaudeville, to the record-breaking West End musicals and spectacular Broadway shows of today. Discover the history, plots and stars of musical theatre and movie musicals, go backstage to find out behind-the-scenes gossip and delve into profiles of successful creators such as Disney and Andrew Lloyd Webber in this illustrated celebration. Plus fun infographics summarize plot, characters and songs making this a handy reference guide of all the best-loved musicals.

With a beautiful glittery cover capturing the excitement and glamour of a trip to the theatre, Musicals: The Definitive Illustrated Story is a show-stopping celebration and a perfect gift for musical fans everywhere.

What makes it "definitive"?

Hi PalJoey — The book definitely includes Sondheim and R&H (and, for that matter, Pal Joey). The description is only a bit of information about what to expect.

Agreeing with all of you! There's a bit more information here, but not much:

http://www.dk.com/us/9781465438867-musicals/

Here's a (very) abbreviated ToC:

The Modern Musical (to 1939): From Show Boat to The Wizard of Oz

A Golden Age (1940-1969): From Pal Joey to Oh! Calcutta

New Inventions (1970-1999): From Jesus Christ Superstar to Mamma Mia!

A Musical Revival (2000-Present): From The Producers to Into the Woods

There's also a reference section at the back that covers off 100 more musicals, all the way up to Hamilton.

"Definitive" is a debatable word, for sure. But we've got twelve expert writers on two continents who contributed to this book, and a bunch of theater-geek editors. If not "definitive" by your standards, hopefully it's a book you'll at least enjoy!

Updated On: 9/9/15 at 03:58 PM

I actually like their definition of the ages, it's more in line with my own perception.

Though including INTO THE WOODS in the post-2000 category seems odd (unless they mean the film?)

Updated On: 9/9/15 at 05:01 PM

Fantod said: "Also apparently musicals like Very Good Eddie and Lady, Be Good aren't real musicals."

I think the key phrase is "Modern Musical" which they are not.

alliesinger said: "There's a bit more information here, but not much:

http://www.dk.com/us/9781465438867-musicals/"

I looked at that link. Still no mention of Sondheim, and the only reference to R&H is The Sound of Music.

They should delete the word "definitive" from the subtitle and descriptive copy.