Everything Was Possible: The Birth of the Musical Follies, Revised and Updated

Ted Chapin was a college student who was the sole production assistant for Stephen Sondheim's Follies, which is now considered one of the most important musicals of modern time. He kept a detailed journal of his experience, which he used as the basis for Everything Was Possible: The Birth of the Musical Follies. Chapin takes the reader on the roller-coaster ride of creating a new and original Broadway musical, featuring classic Sondheim songs like I'm Still Here, Losing My Mind, and Broadway Baby.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

Have you ever wondered about the incredible journey it takes to bring an original Broadway musical to life? Well, meet Ted Chapin, a college student who had the privilege of witnessing the birth of Stephen Sondheim's iconic masterpiece, Follies. Chapin, with his keen eye for detail and journalistic skills, captured the essence of this extraordinary production in his book, Everything Was Possible: The Birth of the Musical Follies.

From the drama-filled rehearsal rooms to the bustling streets of New York, Chapin takes us on a roller-coaster ride as he delves into the intricate process of creating a new and original Broadway musical. With an enthusiast's passion and a journalist's precision, he takes us behind the scenes, revealing the tireless efforts of the musical theater giants who brought this Tony Award-winning classic to life.

Stephen Sondheim, Harold Prince, and Michael Bennett, among others, collaborated on Follies, which featured many timeless Sondheim songs like "I'm Still Here," "Losing My Mind," and "Broadway Baby." Some of these songs were even written in a hotel room in Boston during the show's early stages.

Chapin's book offers a captivating glimpse into the creative process, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs that go into bringing a musical to the stage. It's a must-read for anyone who loves theater, music, or the magic of live performance.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Follies, Chapin has added a new afterword to his book, updating the history of the show and exploring its continued impact on theater and popular culture. From recent productions around the world to new recordings and the possibility of a film version, Chapin's book remains a valuable resource for fans and theater enthusiasts alike.

So, whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or a newcomer to the world of musical theater, Everything Was Possible: The Birth of the Musical Follies is a must-read that will transport you to the heart of the creative process and leave you in awe of the incredible talent and dedication that goes into creating a Broadway musical.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493065325
Edition number: Revised and Updated