The Encyclopedia of the New York Stage, 1930-1940 : Book Review

"The Encyclopedia of the New York Stage, 1930-1940" written by Samuel L. Leiter is an incredibly comprehensive and meticulously researched book that delves into the vibrant theater scene of New York City during this particular decade. As a renowned theater critic and historian, Leiter provides readers with a wealth of information about the plays, actors, directors, producers, and even the audiences that played a significant role in shaping this pivotal era in theater history.

One of the standout features of this book is its easy-to-navigate layout, organized in alphabetical order. This allows readers to explore and delve into various aspects of the New York stage during this period effortlessly. Moreover, each entry is written concisely yet brimming with intricate details, enabling readers to grasp the essence and significance of each theatrical production.

Leiter's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book enjoyable for both theater enthusiasts and general readers. However, what truly sets this book apart is Leiter's exceptional ability to contextualize the plays and performances within the broader social and cultural landscape of the time. By providing background information on the playwrights, the social and political climate, and the evolving tastes of the audiences, Leiter paints a vivid and captivating picture of how these factors influenced the theater scene of the 1930s and 1940s.

The inclusion of photographs and illustrations throughout the book further enhances the reader's experience and understanding of the era. These visual elements bring the theatrical productions to life, allowing readers to visually connect with the performances and the people involved.

In conclusion, "The Encyclopedia of the New York Stage, 1930-1940" is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history of American theater. Through his passion and expertise, Samuel L. Leiter provides a comprehensive and engaging account of this captivating era in the New York stage. Whether you are a theater aficionado or a curious reader, this book will undoubtedly leave you with a deeper appreciation for the rich history of the New York theater scene.

What are readers saying?

"The Encyclopedia of the New York Stage 1930-1940" written by Samuel L. Leiter has received praise from readers for its comprehensive exploration of the vibrant theatrical scene in New York City during the 1930s and 1940s. This book delves into the plays and performers that shaped this era and is highly regarded by theater enthusiasts and historians alike.

Many reviewers appreciate Samuel L. Leiter's meticulous research and extensive knowledge of the New York stage during this particular decade. They find his thorough and detailed exploration of the plays, actors, directors, producers, and venues of the time to be valuable and informative. The author's attention to lesser-known productions ensures a comprehensive overview of the era, which readers find engaging.

Readers also praise Leiter's accessible writing style, which makes the book enjoyable to read despite its encyclopedic nature. The author's passion for the subject shines through, captivating readers and immersing them in the world of 1930s and 1940s theater. Reviewers appreciate Leiter's ability to bring the era to life on the page.

The organization of the book is another aspect that receives positive feedback from readers. They find it well-structured and easily navigable, with sections divided by year, allowing readers to focus on specific timeframes or browse through the entire decade. The inclusion of indexes and appendices further enhances the book's usability.

Overall, reviewers agree that "The Encyclopedia of the New York Stage 1930-1940" is an invaluable resource for theater lovers and researchers. Samuel L. Leiter's extensive knowledge and meticulous research make this book a comprehensive guide to the theatrical landscape of the period. Whether readers are looking for information on famous plays or obscure productions, they can rely on this book as a reliable and engaging source.

NYStageEncyclopedia BroadwayHistory TheaterArchive