Alexis Soloski's Top Picks in Performing Arts Literature

Alexis Soloski, known for her work as a culture reporter and theater critic, shares her top six literary works that revolve around the themes of music, theater, and the performing arts. These selections offer a blend of insight, history, and narrative that connect deeply with the world of stage and performance.

'Theatre' by W. Somerset Maugham (1937)

With its mix of elegance and malice, Maugham's novel 'Theatre' takes us through the story of Julia Lambert, an actress celebrated in her own right, as she maneuvers through personal and professional challenges using her acting flair, epitomized by her memorable silver dress. The text also serves as a reflection on the blurred boundaries between an actor's reality and the roles they play.

'The Season: A Candid Look at Broadway' by William Goldman (1969)

William Goldman, noted for his contributions as a novelist and screenwriter, gives readers a backstage pass to the Broadway scene with 'The Season'. This book captures the essence of a particularly eventful year in New York theater, delivering anecdotes and opinions that, while not universally timeless, provide an unprecedented look at the successes and failures of Broadway productions.

'Voyage in the Dark' by Jean Rhys (1934)

Jean Rhys' semi-autobiographical 'Voyage in the Dark' tells the story of Anna Morgan, a young woman who relocates from the West Indies to London, diving into the world of a traveling music hall. Rhys draws from her own brief stint as a chorus girl to craft an intimate and atmospheric narrative.

'Run Towards the Danger' by Sarah Polley (2022)

This collection of essays by Sarah Polley resonates with her experiences in the entertainment industry, particularly through the lens of a performer facing stage fright. One essay notably portrays Polley's preference for elective surgery over the tribulations of being on stage, offering a personal and stirring account of her life in acting.

'Mansfield Park' by Jane Austen (1814)

'Mansfield Park', while less celebrated than some of Austen's other works, encapsulates a compelling subplot where characters engage in amateur theater. These performances become a battleground for moral integrity, revealing the complexities beneath the seemingly innocent pursuit of the arts.

'We Play Ourselves' by Jen Silverman (2021)

Jen Silverman's novel is both appealing and introspective, focusing on Cass, a playwright navigating personal downfalls in Los Angeles. The narrative delves into the sacrifices demanded by artistic endeavors, scrutinizing the nature of success in the theatrical world.

literature, theater, performance