Something Wonderful: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway Revolution

Something Wonderful chronicles the partnership between composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II as they created some of Broadway's most successful musicals. The book traces their careers from their early days in theater through their groundbreaking collaborations in the 1940s and 1950s. Todd S. Purdum draws on letters, interviews, and previously unpublished materials to reconstruct the duo's creative process and professional relationship. The narrative includes behind-the-scenes accounts of their major productions, from initial concept through opening night. The book examines both the personal and professional dynamics between these two theatrical giants, including their interactions with performers, producers, and other key figures in American theater. Their impact on Broadway extended beyond their own shows to influence the broader entertainment industry of their era. Through their story emerges a portrait of American cultural transformation in the mid-20th century, as Rodgers and Hammerstein's innovative approach to musical theater reflected and shaped changing social attitudes.

Readers appreciate the detailed research and engaging storytelling about Rodgers and Hammerstein's partnership. Many note the book provides context about Broadway's evolution and the duo's impact on musical theater. Likes: - Clear explanations of how shows were developed and financed - Coverage of lesser-known works beyond the major hits - Behind-the-scenes stories about casting and production - Balanced portrayal of both men's personalities and flaws Dislikes: - Some found the writing dry in sections about business dealings - A few readers wanted more analysis of the actual music - Several note the book moves quickly through the later years - Some wished for more detail about specific shows Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (280+ ratings) BookBrowse: 4.5/5 Notable review quote: "Purdum strikes the perfect balance between theatrical history and human interest stories" - Amazon reviewer

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⭐ Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II created their first musical together, "Oklahoma!," when they were both in their 40s and already well-established in their separate careers 🎭 While collaborating, Rodgers and Hammerstein had a strict work schedule: Hammerstein would write the lyrics first, then Rodgers would compose the music to match - the opposite of how Rodgers had worked with his previous partner, Lorenz Hart 🎬 "The Sound of Music" was the last musical Rodgers and Hammerstein created together, as Hammerstein died of cancer nine months after its Broadway premiere in 1959 📚 Author Todd S. Purdum is a veteran political journalist who spent over 20 years at The New York Times, bringing a unique historical and cultural perspective to his examination of the Broadway legends 🎵 The duo's musicals tackled serious social issues that were rarely addressed on Broadway at the time, including domestic violence in "Carousel" and racism in "South Pacific"