Theaters and Theater Companies of New York

Theaters and Theater Companies of New York
M. Stefan Strozier
World Audience, Inc
ISBN: 978-1-934209-83-7
Nonfiction, Theater Guide
Reviewed by Lee Gooden

Strozier and Rubino JR’s new book, Theater and Theater Companies of New York is not the normal cut and dry guide. Their knowledge of theater, and all things related to New York City-theater seems to be endless. The tone of their guide is conversational; as if the reader is sitting at a table with them in a deli near the theater district and they share the latest theater gossip over hot pastrami sandwiches on rye, dill pickles and bad coffee. For example, while discussing the Signature Theater, they write, “Founded in 1991, the Signature Theater exists to honor the playwright. This year, Charles Mee is the playwright-in-residence though one is advised to use the term playwright loosely in this context. Mr. Mee does not write what we think of as plays.”
Strozier and Rubino fill the book with humorous biting and semi-satiric comments such as the above example. Their guide more than fits the bill as a shining resource for the newbie, those who partake on occasion and avid theater goers. Because Theaters and Theater Companies of New York is written by people within the industry and (Strozier is a director, producer, playwright, journalist among many other things in the performing arts and literature and Rubino, has unwavering affection for New York City and is the creator and author of the Life Lessons series.) obvious lovers of the performing arts; the reader will be caught up in the hurricane of their enthusiasm.
Theaters and Theater Companies of New York is and endless cache of theatrical trivia and information with an easily followed synopsis of important theater and theater companies in New York City, emphasized by vibrant black and white photographs; a must-have indispensable guide.