The Magic of Light

Learn About the Magic of Light from a Master

Step into the captivating world of Jean Rosenthal, a trailblazing figure in the realm of lighting design for modern theater. The Magic of Light, a professional memoir crafted with the assistance of friend and novelist Lael Wertenbaker, unveils the artistry behind Rosenthal's technical mastery. Renowned for transforming stage illumination from a mere necessity to a mesmerizing art form, Rosenthal shares her insights, experiences, and the evolution of her craft.

Part one of the memoir delves into Rosenthal's profound thoughts on light, exploring its role in theatrical history, dissecting its impact on plays, musicals, operas, and dance. Part two, "Tools of the Trade," serves as a comprehensive guide, detailing the mechanics of lighting instruments, with diagrams, charts, and photographs illustrating Rosenthal's creative process. Included are light plots, cue sheets, and scene designer's elevations for the famous Broadway productions of Hello, Dolly and Plaza Suite.

In a heartfelt preface, Wertenbaker offers a glimpse into the life of Rosenthal, a woman of immense talent, professionalism, and profound humanity. From her early collaborations with Martha Graham to her work with Broadway stage greats, Rosenthal's journey unfolds with anecdotes, humor, and the unwavering dedication that endeared her to colleagues and theater crews alike.

The Magic of Light is not only a technical guide; it's a celebration of Rosenthal's legacy and her impact on the theatrical world. With contributions from luminaries like Martha Graham, John Houseman, Oliver Smith, Mary Martin, and Garson Kanin, this memoir is a tribute to a pioneering artist whose work continues to shape the essence of stage illumination.

This book is also available from Echo Point Books as a paperback (ISBN 1648374301).

"Jean was, yes, a craftswoman, a technical expert, hut she was equally an artist-she used lights instead of oils."-Mary Martin

"Another performance without her? / don't know how I'll do it!"-Martha Graham

Jean Rosenthal was the award-winning designer of about 4000 productions in all aspects of theater, including such shows as West Side Story; Plaza Suite; Becket; Hello, Dolly!, Hamlet (with Richard Burton), The Odd Couple, Cabaret, and Fiddler on the Roof. Lael Wertenbaker has written seventeen works of fiction, nonfiction, drama, and juvenile literature, including Death of a Man, Festival, The World of Picasso, The Eye of the Lion, To Mend the Heart, The Afternoon Women, and Unbidden Guests.

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