Wizard of Oz: Musical Adaptations from Baum to MGM and Beyond

One of the most beloved film musicals of all time, The Wizard of Oz represents an enduring family favorite and cultural classic. In this lively and wide-ranging book, editors Danielle Birkett and Dominic McHugh bring together insights from eleven experts into the varied musical forms this great American myth has taken in the past century. The book explores the writing, composition, and reception of the MGM film, its importance in queer culture, stage adaptations of the movie, cult classic The Wiz, Stephen Schwartz's Broadway blockbuster Wicked, and the cultural afterlife of the iconic Arlen-Harburg songs.

Starting with the early adaptations of L. Frank Baum's story, the book delves into the different ways in which The Wizard of Oz has been represented through music, both on stage and screen. The MGM movie, in particular, has become a cultural icon, and the book examines its significance in this context. The authors also explore the impact of the film on queer culture, as well as the various stage adaptations that have emerged over the years.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is its exploration of the cult classic The Wiz, which put a unique spin on the original story by setting it in an urban, African-American context. The book also examines the success of Stephen Schwartz's Broadway musical Wicked, which reimagined the story from the perspective of the Wicked Witch of the West.

Throughout the book, the authors highlight the enduring legacy of the Arlen-Harburg songs, which have become an integral part of the Wizard of Oz experience. These iconic tunes, such as "Over the Rainbow" and "Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead," have continued to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians and performers.

Overall, this book provides a comprehensive and engaging look at the musical forms that The Wizard of Oz has taken on over the past century. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the ways in which this classic story has been adapted and reimagined, and the important role that music has played in its enduring popularity and cultural significance.

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