Steven Adler’s book “On Broadway: Art and Commerce on the Great White Way” are devoted to the history and further development of Broadway. Steven Adler, former Broadway stage manager, casts light upon the perspectives of the development of the whole American theatre in his book. He presents the most outstanding representatives of the theatre who have influenced the history of Broadway. The elite of the theatre including Arthur Laurents, Frank Rich, Stephen Sondheim, Des McAnuff, Robin Wagner, Todd Haimes is described in Adler’s work. The author casts light upon the current situation of Broadway art and the circumstances which may make the theatre to be at the border of decay. Many producers are afraid to risk producing their shows on the stage of Broadway. They prefer to try their works on the stages of other theatres as far as it is quite difficult to foretell the public response. It is very important to follow the interests and needs of the audience which is so changeable.
The author demonstrates the role of producers, managers, performers, writers, artists, critics, theatre owners, lawyers, citizens in the history of Broadway and presents their own personal views on the development of Broadway. It is quite interesting to observe one and the same concept from different points of view. The author makes a comparison between economic and creative forces that influenced Broadway. Although it is quite complicated to associate high art with filthy lucre, art is impossible without money. It is one of the most important problems for every producer to find the money for his show. They are looking for investors which pay all spending as far as people devoting their life to art also need money for living. Steven Adler describes the work of producers, their responsibilities, and their crucial role in making a masterpiece which arouses the spectators’ interest and makes the show popular. Modern Broadway is considered to be the most visited place of interest by tourists. It is one of the most appealing entertainment centers. Steven Adler analyzes all the elements which make Broadway production nowadays including the spectators’ appetites and ruthless critiques. More than that, the author presents the way of Broadway from pure art to a profitable business. This cultural center is a teaser for many agencies and producers to make money. The book concerns itself with both sides of this historical place: cultural as well as an economic one. Most people are accustomed to considering Broadway to be the cultural center and the place where every connoisseur may have an aesthetic delight rather than a place for making money. Enjoying shows staging on Broadway, many people don’t think about all refinements of its production. Steven Adler helps the theatre workers as well as the theatre connoisseurs to go deep into its process. This book has made me look at Broadway in another way. Broadway is the most appealing place for many people.
Questions:
- What are the main factors influenced the development of Broadway?
- How do you see the perspectives of its further development?
- Are economic or cultural factors dominant in the development of Broadway? Explain your point of view.
- What is the role of the writer and the producer in the popularity of the show?
- Who plays a crucial role in Broadway? What cannot you imagine the theatre without?