Not Since Carrie

Forty Years of Broadway Musical Flops

Ken Mandelbaum

In the world of theater, the glitz and glamour often beguile audiences, but lurking beneath this sparkling facade lies a realm of colossal flops-those Broadway musicals that crashed and burned, leaving tales of heartbreak and ruin in their wake. Not Since Carrie: Forty Years of Broadway Musical Flops by Ken Mandelbaum pulls back the curtain on this often-ignored chapter of theatrical history, and what you'll discover is astoundingly poignant, filled with both laughter and despair.

With a title that nods to the infamous "Carrie," which flopped spectacularly in 1988, Mandelbaum's book is a heartfelt tribute to the dreams dashed and ambitions unfulfilled in the pursuit of Broadway stardom. Over the course of 384 pages, he chronicles a cornucopia of glittering failures-some with magnificent aspirations that wilted under the scrutiny of the spotlight. Each chapter reads like a tragic love letter to the highs and lows of musical production, where vision often collides with reality in the most spectacular fashion.

Mandelbaum's investigation is not merely a catalog of failures; it's a symphony of reasons behind these artistic catastrophes. Why did "Merrily We Roll Along," with its groundbreaking narrative structure, become a cautionary tale instead of a rousing success? How did "The Dance of the Vampires" turn from anticipation into derision? This book takes you on an exhilarating rollercoaster ride through the minds of creators, producers, and the relentless critics who sharpened their knives, critiquing every note and step with surgical precision. With each page, you are not just reading about flops; you are feeling the tremors of dreams shattered.

What makes this exploration even more compelling is Mandelbaum's sharp wit and engaging style. Critics have often debated whether the work wades into the realm of academic critique or offers a campy, nostalgic examination of the failures. Some readers argue that the humor is a tad bit at odds with the severity of the business, while others revel in the refreshing take that combines laughter with critical insights. The narrative swims through the essence of each musical, making it hard to resist the urge to pick a side-do we cringe in sympathy or revel in their ridiculousness?

Even more fascinating is the cultural context in which this book was written. Emerging from the artistic upheaval of the late 20th century, where Broadway was simultaneously an icon of American culture and a battleground for innovation and conformity, Mandelbaum captures the zeitgeist that demanded spectacular narratives at any cost. The pressures of unprecedented expectations led to decisions that, at times, felt desperate and misguided, and Mandelbaum is relentless in exposing the delicate balance between creativity and commercial viability.

If you think you're immune to the charm of Broadway's lesser-known catastrophes, think again! Not Since Carrie is not just about failure; it is a meditation on ambition, resilience, and the innate human desire to create something unforgettable-even if it doesn't always land as intended. As you dive into the world of show tunes gone wrong, prepare to feel a stir in your own dreams and ambitions.

Mandelbaum reminds us all that, even amid failure, lies the unforgettable stories that shape the narrative of our lives-stories of lessons, laughter, and the kind of camaraderie that can only arise from shared misadventures and dreams. The rich tapestry of theatrical flops portrayed in this book should leave you transformed, contemplating your own theatrical endeavors whether as an observer or a creator. Every turn of the page is a testament to the audacity of dreams, encouraging you not just to create but to embrace the beauty in both success and failure.

So, what are you waiting for? Not Since Carrie is not just a book; it's an experience that could alter your perspective on Broadway and on the daring pursuits that define us all. Don't just read it-live it! 🎭✨️

📖 Not Since Carrie: Forty Years of Broadway Musical Flops

✍ by Ken Mandelbaum

🧾 384 pages

1992

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