Adventures in Theater History: Philadelphia

“What a wild trip through the history of what makes Philadelphia theater so unique. The book captures the spirit of the city and its contributions to both Art and Entertainment.” ~Joe Canuso, founding artistic director of Theatre Exile

“The real reason W.C. Fields said he'd rather be in Philadelphia: there was always a good show on. Peter Schmitz tells the story of several centuries of Philly theatre with style and enthusiasm.” ~Michael Goldfarb, journalist and broadcaster for the BBC and NPR

“Peter Schmitz deserves our thanks for writing a book in which he posits:  "The story of Philadelphia theater is fascinating when you get up close and not enough people in the world know about it." As a lifelong Philadelphian and theater-maker, I say "bravo" for answering the call and for doing so in such an eclectic and surprising way. The book is a combination of rigorous research and juicy backstage gossip told from a witty and winking point of view. Readers will surely enjoy discovering conjoining essays on Lady Day and William Penn in one chapter and later learn how Charles Fuller was inspired by Molly Picon in another. These unlikely juxtapositions seem to bring us all together in one dramatic continuum that finally puts Philadelphia theater front and center where it belongs.” ~Sara Garonzik, Executive Producing Director Emeritus, Philadelphia Theatre Company

“In Adventures in Theater History: Philadelphia, Peter Schmitz offers us a charming variety of delicious historical treats that add up to a thoroughly satisfying feast. He brings to life home-grown theater artists Edwin Forrest, the Barrymore family, Pearl Bailey, George Kelly, and Charles Fuller, among many others––as well as the city they lived in, the theaters they built, and the communities they served. This is a book that all theater lovers will want to read and treasure.” ~Mary B. Robinson, director, author of To Repair the World