The Magic of Light: The Craft and Career of Jean Rosenthal, Pioneer in Lighting for the Modern Stage
About
Learn About the Magic of Light from a MasterStep into the captivating world of Jean Rosenthal, a trailblazing figure in the realm of lighting design for modern theater. The Magic of Light, a professional memoir crafted with the assistance of friend and novelist Lael Wertenbaker, unveils the artistry behind Rosenthals technical mastery. Renowned for transforming stage illumination from a mere necessity to a mesmerizing art form, Rosenthal shares her insights, experiences, and the evolution of her craft.Part one of the memoir delves into Rosenthals profound thoughts on light, exploring its role in theatrical history, dissecting its impact on plays, musicals, operas, and dance. Part two, Tools of the Trade, serves as a comprehensive guide, detailing the mechanics of lighting instruments, with diagrams, charts, and photographs illustrating Rosenthals creative process. Included are light plots, cue sheets, and scene designers elevations for the famous Broadway productions of Hello, Dolly and Plaza Suite.In a heartfelt preface, Wertenbaker offers a glimpse into the life of Rosenthal, a woman of immense talent, professionalism, and profound humanity. From her early collaborations with Martha Graham to her work with Broadway stage greats, Rosenthals journey unfolds with anecdotes, humor, and the unwavering dedication that endeared her to colleagues and theater crews alike.The Magic of Light is not only a technical guide; its a celebration of Rosenthals legacy and her impact on the theatrical world. With contributions from luminaries like Martha Graham, John Houseman, Oliver Smith, Mary Martin, and Garson Kanin, this memoir is a tribute to a pioneering artist whose work continues to shape the essence of stage illumination.
Why it’s great
Jean Rosenthal transformed theatrical lighting from a technical necessity into a mesmerizing art form, and this professional memoir shows exactly how she did it. Sharing her philosophy, her technical insights, and decades of experience lighting some of America's most celebrated productions, Rosenthal gives serious readers a firsthand account of what it takes to make light itself tell a story on the modern stage.
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