How Broadway Musicals Are Made

How Broadway Musicals Are Made by John Kenrick (Copyright 2000, Revised 2004) *Ruby Keeler & Warner Baxter in 42nd Street. Click this photo to see a full size image.*	Musicals are not just written – they are collaborative creations that must be put together piece by piece. How does a stage musical go from first inspiration to opening night? And who does what to get it there? These essays examine the birth process of a Broadway musical – as it happened in the past and as it happens today.

Elements of a Musical: The Score The Book Key Players: Production Team Key Players: Creative Team How to Write a Musical Getting Your Musical Produced	The Production Process: Getting The Idea Workshops Raising the Money Auditions Rehearsals Tryouts Previews Opening Running On Broadway
There are several books that provide detailed looks at how great Broadway musicals developed -- *Altman, Richard and Mervyn Kaufman. The Making of a Musical: Fiddler on the Roof. New York: Crown Publishers, 1971.* A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the major stage and screen incarnations of a beloved classic. *Chapin, Ted. Everything Was Possible: The Birth of the Musical Follies. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2003.* An absorbing behind the scenes look at the development of a controversial masterwork. Beautifully written, frank but never mean spirited, this is an instant classic in the field of musical theatre history. *Dunn, Don. The Making of No, No, Nanette. Secaucus, New Jersey: Citadel Press, 1972.* Although hard to find, this is the dishiest book ever on the madness involved in putting a Broadway musical together. *Wilk, Max. OK! The Story of Oklahoma!* New York: Grove Press, 1993. A meticulously researched look back at the gestation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's landmark hit. Packed with anecdotes and great photos! Back to: Reviews & Essays**