Discover the powerful and universal lessons from the music and lyrics of Stephen Sondheim, the genius behind such musical theater masterworks as Company, West Side Story, and Into the Woods.
Stephen Sondheim died on November 26, 2021, but for countless fans around the world, he is âstill hereâ to quote one of his lyrics. With acclaimed revivals of several of his landmark shows occurring around the world and introducing new generations to the man who transformed American musical theater, Sondheimâs legacy has only grown. What is it about such classic showtunes as âRoseâs Turnâ from Gypsy, âSend in the Clownsâ from A Little Night Music, and âChildren Will Listenâ from Into the Woods, and more that speak to us so effortlessly?
With in-depth and accessible insight, How Sondheim Can Change Your Life makes the case that the greatness of Sondheimâs brillianceâbeyond the clever lyrics and adventurous musicârests in his ability to tell universal stories that relate to us all. From Louiseâs desire for freedom as Gypsy Rose Lee to Sweeney Toddâs thirst for revenge, and beyond, we as an audience can easily relate to Sondheimâs characters. His works understand us as much as we understand them.
Following the arc of Sondheimâs remarkable career, How Sondheim Can Change Your Life is rich with stories about various productions and iconic performers, deep readings of his music and lyrics, and insights into his creative process. But more than that, it reveals the ways that Sondheimâs works can enrich the lives of all of us on the other side of the footlights.