Other performing arts Books

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Book SynopsisThe follow-up to stand-up comedian Doug Stanhope's acclaimed memoir Digging Up Mother, This Is Not Fame is an unfiltered, uncensored, hilarious, and deeply obscene narrative of anecdotes from the down-and-dirty traveling comedy circuit.

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Book Synopsis#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The brilliant coming-of-age-and-into-superstardom story of one of the greatest artists of all time, in his own words—featuring never-before-seen photos, original scrapbooks and lyric sheets, and the exquisite memoir he began writing before his tragic deathNAMED ONE OF THE BEST MUSIC BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW AND ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY THE WASHINGTON POST AND THE GUARDIAN • NOMINATED FOR THE NAACP IMAGE AWARD  Prince was a musical genius, one of the most beloved, accomplished, and acclaimed musicians of our time. He was a startlingly original visionary with an imagination deep enough to whip up whole worlds, from the sexy, gritty funk paradise of “Uptown” to the mythical landscape of Purple Rain to the psychedelia of “Paisley Park.” But his most ambitious creative act was turning Prince Rogers Nelson, born in Minnesota, into Prince, one of the greatest pop stars of any era. The Beautiful Ones is the story of how Prince became Prince—a first-person account of a kid absorbing the world around him and then creating a persona, an artistic vision, and a life, before the hits and fame that would come to define him. The book is told in four parts. The first is the memoir Prince was writing before his tragic death, pages that bring us into his childhood world through his own lyrical prose. The second part takes us through Prince’s early years as a musician, before his first album was released, via an evocative scrapbook of writing and photos. The third section shows us Prince’s evolution through candid images that go up to the cusp of his greatest achievement, which we see in the book’s fourth section: his original handwritten treatment for Purple Rain—the final stage in Prince’s self-creation, where he retells the autobiography of the first three parts as a heroic journey. The book is framed by editor Dan Piepenbring’s riveting and moving introduction about his profound collaboration with Prince in his final months—a time when Prince was thinking deeply about how to reveal more of himself and his ideas to the world, while retaining the mystery and mystique he’d so carefully cultivated—and annotations that provide context to the book’s images. This work is not just a tribute to an icon, but an original and energizing literary work in its own right, full of Prince’s ideas and vision, his voice and image—his undying gift to the world.

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Book SynopsisThis witty, warm and altogether delightful look at the history of music hall in Preston will fascinate lovers of musical history everywhere. Travelling from back-street alehouses to palatial theatres and featuring internationally recognised stars of the genre and some unusual local acts - including a very well received lecture on ''the joy of oysters'' - this is a must for anyone who has ever felt the pull of the stage.

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Book SynopsisAfter four seasons, HBO's award-winning dramatic series based on George R. R. Martin's bestselling fantasy novels, Game of Thrones, is hotter than ever, reaching over 19 million viewers per episode. Game of Thrones: In Memoriam, a photo- and fact-filled memorial to the characters who have met their end thus far, will be a must-have for the show's dedicated fan base.

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Book SynopsisHe adored me. I''d never had it before, and I''ll never have it again. I was lucky to have it at all. - LAUREN BACALL Ever since nineteen-year-old Lauren Bacall seductively taught Humphrey Bogart how to whistle in the most famous scene from 1941''s To Have and Have Not , fans have been fascinated by the palpable heat between these two movie legends. Their onscreen passion blossomed into a full-blown off-screen love affair, and culminated in a blissful marriage that lasted twelve years, until Bogart''s untimely death in 1957. Bogie & Bacall celebrates their love, with rare photos of the couple, along with tips and anecdotes that will inspire you to ignite your own legendary romance.

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Book SynopsisFocuses on 19 mystery series that were primarily released during the 1940s. The shows covered range from such enduring favourites as Sherlock Holmes and The Saint to lesser-known efforts, such as the Whistling comedies with Red Skelton and the Monogram Sh

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Book SynopsisAn anthology of critical reflections on performance art from Australian scholars, curators and artists, 1970s to 2000s.

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Book SynopsisHow do we define movement in performance? Who or what is being moved and how? And which movements are felt, observed, or studied, in theatre? Part of the Theory for Theatre Studies series which introduces core theoretical concepts that underpin the discipline, Movement provides the first overview of relevant critical theory for students and researchers in theatre and performance studies. Exploring areas such as vitality, plasticity, gesture, effort and rhythm, it opens up the study of theatrical production, live art, and intercultural performance to socio-political conceptions of movement as both practice and concept. It covers movement training systems and considers how they have been utilized in key works of the 20th and 21st centuries. The final section traces the convergence of movement in theatre with other media and digital technologies. A wide range of in-depth case studies helps to equip readers to explore new methodologies and approaches to movement as a performance coTrade ReviewThis book convincingly demonstrates why a focus on the kinaesthetics of theatre—and theatrical embodiment more generally—is as important as the study of dramatic writing, acting, and scenography. The author writes with considerable erudition about the topic, but in a way that is almost always immediately accessible. -- Peter Dickinson, Simon Fraser University, CanadaTable of ContentsSeries Preface Acknowledgements Movement: Introduction Movement of vital beings: Aristotle Movement as bodily technique: Mauss Rhythmic movement: Lefebvre Case Study: Pina Bausch This book SECTION ONE Movement as History Movement of the chorus: Ancient Greek theatre Movement of ‘the flower’: Noh aesthetics Case Study #1: Satoshi Miyagi’s Antigone (2017) Gestural movement: Roman rhetoric Case Study #2: I Am My Own Wife (2003) Movement as style: The Natyasastra Case Study #3: Zero Degrees (2005) Processional movement Hostility to movement: The anti-theatrical prejudice Renaissance movement - from the vernacular to the cosmos Case Study #4: The Tempest (1611, 2016) Movement of the automaton Case Study #5: War Horse (2007) Conclusion SECTION TWO Movement Systems and Embodied Action Holistic Systems: Craig, Delsarte and Dalcroze Case Study #1: Operation Orfeo (1993) Movement vitality: Phenomenology Movement plasticity: Stanislavski and Ibsen Case Study #2: Hedda Gabler (2005) Movement mechanics: Meyerhold Case Study #3, part a: The Constant Prince (1915) Movement dynamics: Laban Movement arrangement: Brecht Case Study #4: Mother Courage and Her Children (1949, 2006) Movement somatics: Grotowski Case Study #3, part b: The Constant Prince (1965) Movement assemblage: Butoh Movement Sociology: Crowds Conclusion SECTION THREE Movement in Contemporary Theatre Speed: Attempts on Her Life (1997, 2007) Slowness: The Artist is Present (2010) Animation: Blackie Blackie Brown (2018) Force: World Factory (2014), Made in Bangladesh (2015) and World Factory (2016) Conclusion Notes References Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisDarren Royston is a Dance and Movement Tutor and Choreographer at RADA, and the Artistic Director and Choreographer for Nonsuch History and Dance. He is council member of many professional organizations including The Laban Guild for Movement and Dance, The European Association of Dance Historians, DANCE UK Choreographers' Forum and the Early Dance Circle (UK) and a member of UNESCO International Council for Dance.Trade ReviewRoyston, a tutor at Rada, gives the reader a fascinating insight into the techniques used at this prestigious institution ... A lively exploration of how historical dance forms can be brought to life on stage. -- Gillian Spickernell * The Lady *Actors get so much from the practical experience of exploring historical dance ideas . . . Darren’s fantastic, thorough approach to dance for the actor can be referred to throughout the rehearsal process and helps to unite the style of the production. * Jamie Lloyd, Director, She Stoops to Conquer, National Theatre, London *This all-embracing approach gives actors a grounding in fundamental stagecraft and a vital sense of body while preparing for a role. * Andrew Normington, Director, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men & former Head of Acting, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School *Table of ContentsIntroduction Alternative Approaches: Making Dance Dramatic Chapter One Ancient Ideas: Dionysian Orchestration Chapter Two Medieval Realms: Feudal Formations Video samples: [1] French Basse Danse: La Dame; [2] Royal Estampie: La Quinte Estampie Real Chapter Three Italian Balls: Renaissance Rhythms Video samples: [3] Italian Bassadanza for 2: Alexandresca; [4] Italian Bassadanza for 3: Pellegrina; [5] Italian Ballo for 2: Rostibolly Gioioso; [6] Italian Ballo for 4: Anello Chapter Four Shaking with Shakespeare: Court and Country Video samples: [7] New Almaine; [8] La Volta; [9] Italian Balletto: Torneo Amoroso; [10] Washerwomen’s Branle; [11] Country Dance for 2 couples: Rufty Tufty; [12] Country Dance for 3 couples: Shepherds’ Holiday; [13] Country Dance for 3 couples: Picking of Sticks Chapter Five Baroque Around the Clock: Mincing by the Minuet Video Samples: [14] The Ballroom Minuet; [15] Bourrée Chapter Six Nineteenth Century Coupling: Partners Please Video samples; [16] Allemanding; [17] Mazurka; [18] Polka Chapter Seven Twentieth Century Foxtrots: Crazy Dances and Dance Crazes Video sample: [19] Charleston Conclusion Taking Leave: The Final Bow

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Book SynopsisThe Front Lawn is a multi-award-winning, much-loved New Zealand duo-turned-trio made up of Don McGlashan, Harry Sinclair and, eventually, Jennifer Ward-Lealand. A 1980s variety act, The Front Lawn was part of an Aotearoa/New Zealand alternative tradition of duos that combine music, comedy, theatre and film. Their debut album Songs from The Front Lawn (1989) distilled McGlashan and Sinclair's theatrical stage show and their groundbreaking short films, Walkshort and The Lounge Bar, while also thrusting the band into the burgeoning New Zealand indie scene. The album is a snapshot of '80s New Zealand, a turbulent, creative period for indie music, indie film and musical theatre, celebrating local identity in new ways.Starting with a social and cultural background of New Zealand in the late 1970s, the book covers McGlashan and Sinclair's upbringing on Auckland's North Shore, early artistic influences and overseas experiences leading to the formation of the group. Much atTrade ReviewSongs From The Front Lawn is deserving a place on any serious bookcase dedicated to New Zealand music. It is thoughtful, analytical, provocative and a mostly enjoyable insight into one of our landmark groups. -- Graham Reid * Elsewhere *Bannister’s book is a worthy addition to the library of books about NZ acts ... importantly, it’s not just the telling of the duo’s story, but a critical essay. -- Gary Steel * Witchdoctor *Table of ContentsList of Figures Acknowledgments 1. Background 2. The Front Lawn 3. The Album 4. The Aftermath Notes Index

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Book SynopsisAn empowerment manifesto for creatives, misfits, innovators, and disruptors from the star of So You Think You Can Dance and creator of Broadway's Finding NeverlandA Unicorn in a World of Donkeys offers a playbook for living a creative and authentic life. Using her own story as a launching spot, and creative quizzes, charts, and lists to engage the reader in an interactive journey, Mia Michaels explores the experience of the unicorn in a world of donkeys, a world where fitting in, pleasing others, following rules, and maintaining norms-no matter how messed up those norms are-is the only acceptable path. She acknowledges the struggles of the unicorn life-loneliness, ridicule, being misunderstood and undervalued-and goes on encourage readers to reframe the unicorn life the way she has, as essential to a life of brilliance.Trade ReviewOne word describes Mia Michaels . . . FEARLESS! Everything she touches goes beyond expectations. Which says a lot because the expectations on her are always high. Working with her was such a highlight of my career because I've always been such a fan. That fearlessness is perfectly translated into this book. C'mon, it's Mia, you already know that this book is going to be incredible before you even open the cover! * Matthew Morrison, TV star of Glee, actor, dancer, and singer-songwriter *Mia embodies magic in her dance. It's no wonder she now runs with unicorns. Young artists, buy this book! * Kristin Chenoweth, Tony-winning actress and singer *Mia Michaels is a brilliant choreographer and director. Now add "writer," and you have a triple threat--and we all know good things come in threes. * Harvey Weinstein *Mia is a force of nature! She has an infectious energy that inspires you want to create with her. * Heidi Klum, model, TV host, producer, fashion designer *

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Book SynopsisWhat is Starfleet?It is the universe’s most famous and inspirational coalitions of all time. It has boldly gone where no pop culture franchise has gone before. It is the foundation for a thriving community of passionate fans.Creator Gene Roddenberry said Star Trek “was an attempt to say that humanity will reach maturity and wisdom on the day that it begins not just to tolerate but take a special delight in differences in ideas and differences in life forms . . . If we cannot learn to actually enjoy those small differences, to take a positive delight in those small differences between our own kind, here on this planet, then we do not deserve to go out into space and meet the diversity that is almost certainly out there.” After more than 50 years, 11 television series, 13 movies, and countless fan conventions later, Star Trek fans of all ages continue to gather—in person or virtually-- and enjoy, share, and live up to Roddenberry’s optimistic vision of the future. Fully authorized and filled with full-color images spanning the entire canon, Star Trek: Starfleet is… celebrates of Roddenberry’s vision. This commemorative book highlights 50 of the key traits of the Star Trek universe and demonstrates, through memorable images and beautiful artwork, how these ideals are personified by everyone from Kirk and Spock, to Picard and Janeway, to Burnham and Mariner, and their voyages to everywhere from Earth to Vulcan, from Q’onoS to the Delta Quadrant, and even to the Mirror Universe and back in time—and how they are actively and sincerely lived by the Star Trek fans themselves. What is Starfleet? Starfleet is fun. Starfleet is not always logical. Starfleet is adventure. Starfleet is brave. Starfleet is compassion. Starfleet is diverse. Starfleet is evolving. And it is by sharing their passions, supporting one another through difficult times, celebrating one another’s successes, and boldly going into a bright and hopeful future that Star Trek fans show that, above all, Starfleet is family. Starfleet is forever. A portion of the proceeds from Starfleet Is . . . will benefit ALS research.

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Book SynopsisOn 2 January 2013, just a day before Jim Davidson was due to enter the Celebrity Big Brother house, he found himself behind far more serious locked doors when he was arrested by the Yewtree detectives over alleged sex offences. Twelve months later, the public voted to crown Jim Davidson as the winner of the latest series of Celebrity Big Brother. Finally, with all charges dropped and no further action being taken, and with the public offering him their staunch support, Jim can finally look back on his year from hell. Facing a series of damaging false allegations, Jim was forced to fight, not just for his reputation and his career, but for his freedom too. Mounting legal costs and a deepening sense of injustice saw Jim sink to the lowest point of his career as the Yewtree investigation threatened to ruin him both financially and emotionally. Finally, after months of pain came the words he and his supporters had been waiting to hear: No Further Action. Now, with the public's approval, Jim reflects on this painful period with the regular dose of wit and humour that have made him so successful. Searingly honest, No Further Action pays tribute to those who stood by him and takes a wry look at what life is like under investigation in the public eye.

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Book SynopsisOn 2 January 2013, just a day before Jim Davidson was due to enter the Celebrity Big Brother house, he found himself behind far more serious locked doors when he was arrested by the Yewtree detectives over alleged sex offences. Twelve months later, the public voted to crown Jim Davidson as the winner of the latest series of Celebrity Big Brother. Finally, with all charges dropped and no further action being taken - and with the public offering him their staunch support - Jim can finally look back on his year from hell. Facing a series of damaging false allegations, Jim was forced to fight, not just for his reputation and his career, but for his freedom too. Mounting legal costs and a deepening sense of injustice saw Jim sink to the lowest point of his career as the Yewtree investigation threatened to ruin him both financially and emotionally. Finally, after months of pain came the words he and his supporters had been waiting to hear: 'No Further Action'. Now, with the public's approval, Jim reflects on this painful period with the regular dose of wit and humour that have made him so successful.Searingly honest, No Further Action pays tribute to those who stood by him and takes a wry look at what life is like under investigation in the public eye.

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Book SynopsisFour millennials looking for sex, love and a well-located flat find themselves caught in a complex game of rivalry, desire and seduction. As the cost of happiness soars, how can they negotiate the new rules of modern relationships and win the game of love? Games for Lovers is a glittering modern rom-com with a wicked gleam in its eye.

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Book SynopsisHelen Lewis' acclaimed memoir, A Time to Speak (Blackstaff Press, Belfast, 1997), tells the story of the first thirty years of her life in Czechoslovakia, from childhood to her professional training as a choreographer and dancer. It also contains her devastating account of Nazi persecution, of loss and suffering in the Holocaust: Helen came very close to death. Maddy Tongue now completes the story of this extraordinary woman who overcame unimaginable suffering to become a creative force in Ireland. The author's friendship with Helen lasted for more than fifty years. As a dancer she performed in many of Helen's significant works. Shadows Behind the Dance describes Helen's creative approach, her struggle to overcome an Irish indifference to modern dance, her pursuit of perfection and her unshakeable belief in humanity. In Ireland today the presence of modern dance owes much to her innovative teaching and practice. Shadows Behind the Dance is supplemented with Chris Agee's 2002 interview with Helen, "An Irish Epilogue", and a folio of Holocaust poems and drawings by Michael Longley and Sarah Longley (who was a pupil of Helen's). Helen's sons, Robin and Michael, have also written a Foreword. The book has been generously funded through subscription by family, friends, colleagues and admirers of the unforgettable Helen Lewis.

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Book SynopsisThe power of story in our lives is far from adequately understood in contemporary culture. Equally the therapeutic power of storytelling, how it can quite literally entrance and even heal, has been ignored until recently. Transforming Tales reveals the true impact of stories on our lives and how stories can create feelings of hope, take away psychological distress and even stimulate the immune system.Written by an experienced professional storyteller, this book contains over 90 short stories, from traditional fables to fascinating modern yarns, and allows readers to understand the hidden patterns storytellers use to captivate attention and learn how truths are often encapsulated in myths, jokes and fairy stories.The author focuses on the therapeutic value of stories and how they can instigate real change in people's lives. The book also reveals everything you need to know to create vibrant, memorable, original stories and short metaphors for yourself.This extraordinary journey into imagination and understanding will be an illuminating read for those professionally concerned with psychological and personal change and anyone who wants to learn more about the power and significance of stories.Trade ReviewThe potential of this book, not to replace but to supplement and inform the literature of pedagogy and therapy, is enormous. The author is correct in saying that there is much 'piecemeal knowledge' about stories - including that of pedagogues, philosophers and therapists - think of Jung's 'archetypes', for example - which "needs to be shared in a practical and accessible way". (p.18). This book is certainly accessible; it is also articulate, entertaining and challenging. And it is most definitely the work of a consummate storyteller. Rob Parkinson has clearly achieved his stated aim in producing "a manual to which you can return over and again to try out new ideas" -- Pastoral Care in EducationIt is a book rich in the art and craft of the storyteller and how they can be used in many different ways and settings...This book is constructed in such a way that it gives you confidence to develop the storyteller in you... I recommend this book for everyone who wants to be connected with the storyteller and story listener within themselves. Enjoy. -- British Psychodrama JournalThis is a book to suit all audiences, from novice to experienced tellers. Although written with a strong slant towards the psychological side of stories, and obviously with therapists in mind, it is not restricted to storytellers interested in therapeutic work. It is written in an entertaining and engaging style, and is heavily seeded with anecdotes and stories. The discussions, exercises and stories should be of interest to everyone. I would recommend this for anyone interested in telling stories or in the power of storytelling. -- Facts & FictionThe use of language throughout the book is interesting, stimulating and thought provoking. The extensive use of fables, stories, shorts, narratives, and vignettes, enables Parkinson to share the tools and techniques of the storytelling trade in a unique way. His clever uses of drama and cliff hangers within the illustrations also draw the reader in, helping him/her move through the book more smoothly and enthusiastically than if one had an academic textbook. -- Journal of Applied Arts and HealthThere's something for everyone in this book, from those who are interested in the history of the story to those, such as therapists, who want to use them to change behaviour. Parkinson says that stories exist to expand the mind; I would say his book does that too, giving readers the skills and confidence to effect great change with the simple art of storytelling. -- RapportAn illuminating account of the art, mechanics and history of storytelling. Transforming Tales is of value to those working in the field of psychiatry or looking to learn more about the power and significance of stories. A fascinating and eye-opening journey, it offers a fresh perspective on an ancient form. -- Inside OutPure gold both for adept storytellers and those for whom story making seems a mysterious art, this enormously rich book brings together the wealth of knowledge about stories that is currently mostly dispersed across different fields, such as education, psychology, psychotherapy, anthropology, folklore and entertainment. Much more than a manual for creating and telling stories, the book itself, with its 90 or more stories, has the capacity to transform, sowing subtle seeds of possibility in the mind of the reader. From the outset, there is an immediacy and warmth to Parkinson's prose, which engages the reader in a very practical way. This book is, in my opinion, the crown jewel of storybooks, carefully constructed and a perfect joy to read. I shall return to it again and again. -- Human Givens JournalThis book is an ambitious and significant attempt to draw together the deep values of oral storytelling and its contemporary contexts. The result is a wise, humane and practical primer which will be of interest to all those touched by the burgeoning renaissance. -- Blethers NewsletterA very interesting and unusual book... The central theme of stories for change is challenging and exciting and it offers a good deal of wisdom about working with stories and insights into the stories themselves -- Mary Medlicott, former Chair of the Society of StorytellingAn illuminating account of the stories behind, within, above and below metaphors. The author's style is wonderfully engaging and flows beautifully from start to finish... This book will inspire anyone who works in therapeutic, creative, educational or business settings as well as being a joyful read to those who are fascinated by stories, fables and folklore. -- Jaycee la Bouce, therapist and coachThis is a source of fabulous ideas and insights on the art of storytelling I will dip into again and again. Thought provoking explanations and rich examples are underpinned with biological information all of which flow easily from Rob's huge experience and skill as a storyteller. It seems as if stories really are wound into our DNA. -- Andy Vass, psychotherapist, coach and author of Teaching with Influence and Coaching and Mentoring for LeadersA cornucopia of ancient and modern stories is interspersed with guidance on storytelling techniques, making learning from this book both entertaining and experiential. Facilitators will find tips that can be adapted in work with others: how to "wake up" an audience with a surprise or puzzle; how to spin out a story or repeat a key motif in order to engage imaginations at a deep level...Anyone who loves stories will enjoy this book. Those seeking creative ways of working with others will be rewarded, as will those curious about how our minds interpret narratives and approach change. -- Lapidus Journal, Fiona Hamilton, authorTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. The Natural Storyteller. 2. The Spanish Game:Guided Imagery and Stories. 3. The Way You Tell 'em: The Art and Craft of Oral Storytelling. 4. Traditional Ways of Storytelling. 5. Marvellous Miniatures: Making Short Metaphors. 6. New Lamps for Old: Transposing Stories. 7. Traps and Treasures: Symbols, Storied Within Stories and Metaphorical Literacy. Notes and References. Index.

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Book Synopsis'Little Britain' arrived on British TV in 2003 - and was an instant hit. Matt Lucas and David Walliams wrote and performed, and their sharp satirical genius created this character-based sketch show - Vicky Pollard, Dafydd 'I'm the only gay in the village', Ting Tong Macadangdang are hard to forget. Its huge popularity as cult-comedy on radio, then television, with its success as mainstream award-winning comedy and as a national and international TV phenomenon, have been tempered by criticism. It's pushed the boundaries of taste too far, some have claimed; it's grotesquely un-politically correct, mocks social groups and participates in the 'humour of humiliation' say others. Timely and comprehensive, this must-read book on 'Little Britain' for fans and scholars is the first to provide lively critiques of the show by leading writers, who explore its appeal and dissect its controversies. They look into representations of gender, sexuality, race, disability and class, into sketch-show conventions, the art of the comedy catchphrase, audiences' responses and still more. It provides too a Film, TV and Radio Guide.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Notes on Contributors Character List Introduction: Britain, Britain, Britain (Sharon Lockyer) PART 1: Narrative, Genre and Comedic Techniques 1) Analysing Little Britain as a Sketch Show (Ian Mowatt) 2) Little Britain Live (Stephen Lacey) 3) ‘Yeah but no but yeah’: A Linguistic Perspective on the Humour of Little Britain (Julia Snell) PART 2: Little Britain and Identity 4) ‘I can’t believe you just said that’: Figuring Gender and Sexuality in Little Britain (Deborah Finding) 5) How Little Britain does ‘race’ (Sarita Malik) 6) ‘Mischief and Monstrosity’: Little Britain and Disability (Margaret Montgomerie) 7) Chavs, Chav-nots and Anyone-in-between: Social Class in Little Britain (Sharon Lockyer) PART 3: Little Britain and Inter/national Audiences 8) ‘I’m anti-Little Britain, and I’m worried I might start laughing’: Audience Responses to Little Britain (Brett Mills) 9) Little Britain: An American Perspective (Arthur Asa Berger) 10) ‘In English please!’ Lost in Translation: Little Britain and Italian Audiences (Delia Chiaro) POSTSCRIPT: Little Britain USA (Kim Akass) Figure 1: Comparison of Anderson’s (1997) results with the speech of Vicky Pollard Film, TV and Radio Guide Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisPresents an array of tricks that baffle and amaze.Table of ContentsIntroduction: how and when to trick for best effect; Practical Jokes and Tricks; A chapter of classical practical jokes for everyone (except the victim) to enjoy. Leave your friends and enemies with egg on their face (literally) or humiliated (but happy!); Card Tricks; The best card tricks around, a surprising number of which require only the barest minimum of skill - and a pack of cards.; Bar Tricks; How to amaze your friends while you're out for a drink, from juggling change to picking up ice cubes with cotton thread.; Tricks With Everyday Objects; A chapter of tricks to perform any time, anywhere - in the kitchen, at work or even in the bank queue.

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Book SynopsisIndia's association with magicians goes back thousands of years. Conjurors and illusionists dazzled the courts of Hindu maharajas and Mughal emperors. As British dominion spread over the subcontinent, such wonder-workers became synonymous with India. Western magicians appropriated Indian attire, tricks and stage names; switching their turbans for top hats, Indian jugglers fought back and earned their grudging respect. This book tells the extraordinary story of how Indian magic descended from the realm of the gods to become part of daily ritual and popular entertainment across the globe. Recounting tales of levitating Brahmins, resurrections, prophesying monkeys and 'the most famous trick never performed', Empire of Enchantment vividly charts Indian magic's epic journey from street to the stage.Trade Review‘Explores the history of magic rituals in India and the way they shaped western imaginations . . . [with] a pleasing sense of humour . . . and an eye for the absurd.’ ‘A fantastic and thoroughly engaging history of Indian magic . . . bristling with . . . tales of conjurors, tricksters, illusionists, jugglers, and cunning conmen across the centuries.’ 'Fascinating.'‘Hugely entertaining . . . a vividly illuminating history of the place of magic in Indian life . . . [a] fabulous book of marvels and wonders.’'A valuable and entertaining book.'‘A strange, deeply learned but consistently entertaining salmagundi of marvels, myths and outrageous cons — a surefooted survey of a vast terrain.'‘Delightful and charming . . . Empire of Enchantment is much more than a history of Indian magic. It is an extraordinarily riveting social history of India, and of India’s encounter with the world.’'Weaving, with his own magical touch . . . an utterly fascinating history of a wonderful cultural tradition . . . Zubrzycki has it all, and his scholarship ranges far and wide. . . . a readable and fast-paced book.’'John Zubrzycki has found the most wonderful story- the sort all writers look for and long for- and told it brilliantly. This is- quite literally- a book of marvels.' -- William Dalrymple'Exceptionally well-crafted and brilliantly told, Empire of Enchantment brings alive the most enchanting tales and traditions from the history of Indian magic, packed with an extraordinary cast featuring emperors and politicians, street performers and thugs. Travelling with Zubrzycki from distant antiquity down to our own, more recent times, what this book offers is a universe of pure, unadulterated delight.' -- Shashi Tharoor

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Book SynopsisThe mysterious art of magic has been a source of wonderment since before the time of Christ. Shape shifting between the supernatural practices of 'real' magic and demonstrations of dazzling illusion, magic has been used to conjure the evil eye, burn villages to the ground, slice women in half, and save men from being crushed to death by five tonnes of cement. Robert Ralley's history takes us deep into this magical underworld to reveal the astounding stories of some of the world's greatest magicians. From the astrology of the three wise men to Harry Houdini's escapology, and David Blain's endurance tests, Ralley illustrates the changing perceptions of magic and the dangerous balance between illusion, fraud, and devilry that still exists today.

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Book SynopsisAs the founding father of the radical dance form that he called Butoh, Tatsumi Hijikata (1928-1986) is a legendary figure in the history of art and contemporary dance. Though influenced by Western artists and writersthe expressionist dance of Mary Wigman, the writings of Artaud, de Sade, Bataille, and Genet, and the drawings and paintings of Goya, Picasso, Toyen, Beardsley, and othershe was dedicated to the particular experience of the marginalized, Japanese suffering body after World War II. In the mid-1970s, Hijikata became concerned with developing notation for his Butoh, and some of these Butoh-fu notations remain, largely in the form of notebooks transcribed by his disciples. Costume en Face is the first publication of one of Hijikata's notebook notations in either English or Japanese. In it we can see, for the first time, the profound interconnectedness of language and body in Hijikata's process of composition.

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Book SynopsisA staple of American popular culture during the 19th and early 20th centuries, the freak show seemed to vanish after World War II. However, as this book reveals, images of the freak show, with its combination of the grotesque, horrific and amusing, stubbornly reappeared in literature and the arts.

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Book SynopsisSince its founding in 1964 Tanzania has used music, dance and other cultural productions as ways of imagining and legitimizing the new nation. Focusing on the politics surrounding Swahili performance, Kelly Askew demonstrates the crucial role of popular culture in Tanzania's history.

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Book SynopsisProvides a comprehensive look at the satiric humor that flourished in the United States during the 1950s and early 1960s. This book reminds us that the postwar era saw varieties of comic expression that were more challenging and nonconformist than we commonly remember.Trade Review"Stephen Kercher's evocative survey of postwar political satire is almost encyclopedic in its range and impeccable for its clear writing and sound scholarship. Many still think of the 1950s as an era of monolithic conformity, yet this irresistible vein of black humor, from Sid Caesar to Lenny Bruce, offered a tremendous outlet for wildly inventive parody and social criticism. This book should delight those who remember the period and enlarge the understanding of those who don't." - Morris Dickstein"

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Book SynopsisDuring the 1920s and '30s, Franz Taibosh - whose stage name was Clicko - performed in front of millions as one of the stars of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. This title presents the story of Taibosh's journey from boyhood on a small farm in South Africa to top billing as one of the travelling World's Fair Freaks.Trade Review"An astonishing story that illuminates the history of a talented person who represented a fragile culture to the world. It entertains and astonishes us - but it also enriches our knowledge of a hardy and resourceful person and a fascinating slice of southern African history." - Alexander McCall Smith, from his Foreword"

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Book SynopsisDuring the 1920s and '30s, Franz Taibosh - whose stage name was Clicko - performed in front of millions as one of the stars of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. This title presents the story of Taibosh's journey from boyhood on a small farm in South Africa to top billing as one of the travelling World's Fair Freaks.Trade Review"An astonishing story that illuminates the history of a talented person who represented a fragile culture to the world. It entertains and astonishes us - but it also enriches our knowledge of a hardy and resourceful person and a fascinating slice of southern African history." - Alexander McCall Smith, from his Foreword"

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Book SynopsisThis work investigates the power behind classical music and dance in Bangkok, the capital and sacred center of Buddhist Thailand. Focusing on the ritual of honouring teachers of music and dance, Deborah Wong reveals a complex network of connections among kings, teachers, knowledge and performance.

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Book SynopsisThis work investigates the power behind classical music and dance in Bangkok, the capital and sacred center of Buddhist Thailand. Focusing on the ritual of honouring teachers of music and dance, Deborah Wong reveals a complex network of connections among kings, teachers, knowledge and performance.

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Book SynopsisAlberto Mira offers a new account of how pop music revolutionized the Hollywood musical. He shows that while the Hollywood system ceased producing large-scale traditional musicals, different pop strains—disco, rock ’n’ roll, doo-wop, glam, and hip-hop—renewed the genre, giving it a new life.Trade ReviewAlberto Mira’s timely volume superbly fills a gap in writing on the musical, focusing with originality, flair and thorough scholarship on a significant variant of the genre. He demonstrates how the Pop musical has taken the genre into new directions, for instance making it even more socially aware, revising its folk discourse, and exploring questions of sexual identity. In his analysis of the star qualities of Ann-Margret, the changing impact of Elvis Presley, re-appraisal of films like Bye Bye Birdie and The Rocky Horror Picture Show or, more generally, the way Pop musicals draw on and diversify the traditions of the classical musical, Mira ensures that this exciting volume will be essential reading for devotees as well as for scholars of the film musical, and the aesthetics, cultural and socio-political contexts of popular cinema. -- Peter William Evans, Queen Mary University of LondonWhile much has been written on the change in the musical's cinematic language in the postclassical period, the “pop musical” itself has not been sufficiently identified, theorized, or historicized. In The Pop Musical, Alberto Mira addresses this gap, insisting that the genre’s unique relationship with pop music plays a determining role in how these films make meaning. -- Desirée Garcia, author of The Movie MusicalTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction: The Hollywood Musical Is Dead. Long Live the Hollywood Musical!1. Hollywood and the Rise of Pop Music: The Age of Elvis2. Embracing Pop: Integrating the Pop Musical3. Looking Back: The Pop Musical and the PastConclusion: Qualified JoysNotesBibliographyIndex

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