Summary of Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain by Gerard Alessandrini

Dive into the hilarious world of 'Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain' by Gerard Alessandrini, where satire meets musical theater magic!

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain (Applause Books), written by Gerard Alessandrini

Welcome to the snarky world of Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain, where the glitter of Broadway meets the razor-sharp wit of Gerard Alessandrini. If you've ever wondered what it's like to stroll through a Broadway production while a sarcastic friend lays bare its every flaw, this is the book to read.

Now, don't be fooled; this isn't just another coffee table book filled with glossy images of performers with perfect hair. No, this delectable delight dives deep into the trenches of the musical theater, serving up a hearty platter of parodies, critiques, and a splash of behind-the-scenes gossip that'll make you think twice before asking for a backstage pass. Alessandrini, the mastermind behind the Forbidden Broadway series, writes with the kind of humor that might just leave your sides aching. His sharp observations and biting commentary are precisely what the Broadway world ordered-not that they knew it!

In Forbidden Broadway, readers are treated to a collection of satirical songs and sketches that poke fun at the biggest hits and misses of the theater scene. Picture this: musical numbers reimagined with laugh-out-loud punchlines that highlight the absurdities of shows that, let's be honest, probably didn't need to see the light of day. Alessandrini doesn't just twirl around the truth; he pirouettes right through it, leaving no overhyped musical unscathed. So, if you were a fan of Cats or Les Misérables, buckle up; you are definitely in for a wild ride.

What makes this book even more compelling is how it isn't just a one-dimensional roast. No, no! Alessandrini expertly dishes out praise where it's due, balancing his critiques with love for the art form. He shows us that while some productions are downright ridiculous, the passion of those involved is worth acknowledging. Bravo, Gerard! You truly are the hero we didn't know we needed.

He also dives into the history and evolution of the Forbidden Broadway phenomenon. Want to know how a small off-Broadway show blossomed into a staple of New York's nightlife? This book gives you the scoop, minus the embarrassing lies that are often spun about success stories in the theater world.

But fair warning: anyone looking for highbrow, pretentious analysis should probably consult their therapist instead. This book is a laugh-a-minute affair that takes Broadway and flips it on its head. Spoiler alert: you might never look at Broadway the same way again!

In summary, Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain is a hilarious romp through the world of musical theater that showcases Alessandrini's genius at crafting unforgettable parodies. He captures the heart and hilarity of Broadway, and let's face it, who doesn't need a little dose of humor when discussing the theatrics of the Great White Way? If you're a theater enthusiast-or even just someone who appreciates a good roast-this book is worth its weight in glittery sequins!

Author's photo - Maddie Page
Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.

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➡️ Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain (Applause Books)

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