Laurence Maslon: Chronicling the History of the American Musical
The vibrant world of Broadway is more than just a collection of shows; it is a reflection of American culture and history. Few individuals have dedicated their careers to documenting this evolution as thoroughly as Laurence Maslon. Born in 1959, Maslon has established himself as a premier American music writer and historian, bridging the gap between academic study and public appreciation of the performing arts.
Academic and Professional Contributions
Beyond his writing, Maslon contributes to the development of future artists as an arts professor at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. His dual role as an educator and historian allows him to analyze the technical and emotional impact of musical theatre from both a scholarly and practical perspective.
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Major Literary Works
Maslon is best known for his comprehensive publications that explore the intersection of music, comedy, and society. His work often examines how show tunes and theatrical performances have influenced the broader American identity.
- Broadway: The American Musical (2004): A deep dive into the development and legacy of the American musical.
- Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America (2008): An exploration of the history and mechanics of American comedy.
- Broadway to Main Street: How Show Tunes Enchanted America (2018): An analysis of how Broadway music permeated everyday American life.
Expanding into Film
Maslon's expertise extends beyond the written word and the classroom. He expanded his historical research into the cinematic medium by coproducing the 2017 documentary Sammy Davis Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me, which chronicles the life of the legendary entertainer.
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Key Facts
- Born: 1959
- Profession: Music writer, historian, and arts professor.
- Academic Affiliation: NYU Tisch School of the Arts.
- Notable Books: Three major publications focusing on Broadway and American comedy.
- Film Credit: Coproducer of the Sammy Davis Jr. documentary (2017).
| Year | Title | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Broadway: The American Musical | Musical Theatre History |
| 2008 | Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America | American Comedy |
| 2018 | Broadway to Main Street | Cultural Impact of Show Tunes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Laurence Maslon?
Laurence Maslon is an American historian, music writer, and professor at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, specializing in the history of Broadway and the American musical.
What are some of his most famous books?
His most notable works include Broadway: The American Musical (2004), Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America (2008), and Broadway to Main Street: How Show Tunes Enchanted America (2018).
Has Laurence Maslon worked in film?
Yes, he served as a coproducer for the 2017 documentary titled Sammy Davis Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me.
Where does Laurence Maslon teach?
He is a professor of arts at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University.