"Although not the first such history, it is one of the best and most approachable I've read." - The Stage "Hurwitz (Rider Univ.) presents a straightforward, well-organized account of the history of the Broadway musical stage. After introducing the European roots of musical theater, he begins his formal New World narrative with stage activities in pre–Revolutionary America and continues through to the early months of 2014 (though his account of recent years seems primarily a listing show by show). Hurwitz does a good job emphasizing business aspects, relating musicals to the changing social environment, and comparing shows from one period to another. Summing Up: Recommended." - R. D. Johnson, SUNY College at Oneonta, CHOICE