Sources: The World of Musicals: An Encyclopedia of Stage, Screen, and Song

Abstract

In the introduction to The World of Musicals the editor Mark Robinson gives quite a concise history of musicals focusing on America's contribution to the genre and giving context to this resource. This 2 volume set distinguishes itself from other reference sources by not only including musical theatre, but also having entries for musical films. From the introduction, Robinson argues that although "many critics have stated that the Broadway musical is a dying art form," American musicals are flourishing and there has definitely been an influx of new creators on the scene as well as a renewed interest through television and film (xxxviii).