Synopsis
Live entertainment that draws on singing, acting and dancing has proved the most popular type of theatre all around the world and in all ages. Thousands of amateur dramatic societies overcome immense difficulties to mount their productions. Secondary schools and Colleges find staging a musical an ideal way to harness the vitality of large numbers of students. Vast sums of money are lavished on the production of a West End or Broadway musical. In all this a great deal depends on the skill and imagination of the choreographer. 'Choreographing the Stage Musical' is a comprehensive analysis of the problem facing the choreographer. The authors examine the rhythmic and melodic structure of the dance routines. They demonstrate the interaction of dance, music and acting. Throughout, the book is illustrated by drawings of figure groupings, diagrams showing movement on the stage and photographs of various professional productions. The appendices provide detailed analysis of five musicals and show how the choreographer works to prepare the dance routines. The book is intended primarily for those who wish to specialize in this aspect of musical theatre. At the same time not every production has the services of trained choreographer, director, musical director; many times it is a new choreographer that finds the show's choreography resting on his or her shoulders. They too will find what they need in 'Choreographing the Stage Musical'. The book assumes no previous experience in dance although dancers who find themselves in the role of choreographer will find it most valuable.
About the Author
Margot Sunderland was for six years Lecturer and then Senior Lecturer in Dance at the Nonington College of Higher Education. She lectured on both the Performing Arts and Human Movement Studies degrees and acted as Co-Director for the Stage Musical Course. In addition to teaching the theory and practice of choreography for musicals, she has done specialist work in jazz dance, movement training for actors, romantic ballet and twentieth century psychological dance. Her extensive freelance assignments throughout the country include work for the BBC, major dance and drama societies, schools, colleges and universities. She acts as a University Examiner in Dance. Dr. Sunderland has choreographed many musicals and has recently co-produced a tape entitled 'Essential Rhythms for Dance Teachers' (TEV Productions). Dr. Sutherland, distinguished author with several books in print, also co-founded the Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education in London. Kenneth Pickering has directed numerous plays, musicals and operas and has written the book and lyrics for three successful stage musicals: 'Uysses,' 'Beowulf' and 'Mothers and Daughters.' He is also the author of 'Drama Improvised', 'Drama in the Cathedral', and of a study guide to 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. He is co-author of 'Investigating Drama' and 'Studying Drama'. Kenneth Pickering was Professor of Theatre at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and is now a Director of London's Institute for the Arts in Therapy and Education and consultant to many of Britain's leading Theatre Schools.
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