Discover what goes on behind the curtains of your favorite musical Do you want to know more about the fascinating history of Broadway musicals, the stars of yesterday and today, and what goes on behind the curtain of a musical production? In Musical Theatre For Dummies, Broadway insider Seth Rudetsky takes you backstage and reveals everything you want to know about life in the theatre. How did musical theatre begin? How did Broadway stars become stars? How can you launch your own musical theatre path, whether in a school musical, community theatre, or on a path toward Broadway? Get answers to all these questions along with tons more insight from the unofficial "mayor of Broadway." ? Learn the history of musical theatre and discover the stories of shows that have run for years . . . or closed before opening night! ? Trace the development of productions, from the initial idea all the way through opening night and beyond ? Discover what it takes to make a musical come together, from pit musicians, stage managers, and swings to designers, casting directors, and more ? Get insider advice on the skills you need to perform in professional or amateur musical theatre productions