The Pan American Exposition in Buffalo; New York; meant to herald the twentieth century; went tragically; spectacularly awry.In 1901; Buffalo was the eighth-largest city in the United States; and its leaders had big dreams. They would host a world’s fair; showcasing the Americas; and bring millions of people to western New York. With nearby Niagara Falls as a drawing card and with stunning colors and electric lights; they hoped the fair would be more popular and more brilliant; literally; than Chicago’s White City of 1893.The Exposition opened with fanfare; its wonders; both strange and magnificent; dazzled the public. Then tragedy struck. In the early autumn of 1901; an assassin stalked the fairgrounds; waiting for President William McKinley. That was shocking enough; but there were more surprises in store. A female daredevil captivated crowds by trying to ride a barrel over Niagara Falls. Apache leader Geronimo startled visitors with a controversial performance. And a showman called the Animal King; the self-proclaimed star of the Midway; announced that one of his acts; the smallest woman in the world and the fair’s “mascot;†had been kidnapped. Then he staged the attempted electrocution of an elephant.In this extraordinary account; Margaret S. Creighton lifts the curtain on the assassination of McKinley as well as on the fair’s lesser-known battles; involving both notorious and forgotten figures. In a story that is by turns suspenseful; heartrending; and triumphant; she reveals the myriad power struggles that not only marked the Exposition but shaped the new century. 38 illustrations
#101608 in Books Larry Stempel 2010-09-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.60 x 1.80 x 6.50l; 2.69 #File Name: 0393067157848 pagesShowtime A History of the Broadway Musical Theater
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A perfect book on a perfect subject!By mscmsBest (actually ONLY) textbook on the musical theatre would make this invaluable; but add that it is delightful and readable makes this part of my permanent bedside reading collection. Mr. Stempel's knowledge and love of the subject is clear throughout the book. The organization and chapter headings make it ideal for teaching and learning the historical development of the genre. I love this book and give it as a gift frequently to fellow lover's of musical theatre. Congratulations and gratitude for writing this wonderful book; Mr Stempel.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. No standing ovation for this.By James CooperI expected more showbiz; bright lights and fun than this survey provides. Stempel's book is academic; fact-filled and heavy going. Little of the joy of the Broadway musical transcends the pedestrian prose. Nevertheless; it's a worthy catalogue of shows; many of which I'd seen and enjoyed.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Very Thorough Historical Review of Broadway's Musical TheaterBy Larry GevirtzThis is a very thorough and well-written review of the history of the Broadway musical. It is highly recommended for those interested in the theater.
