08 Sep Book Review of Putting It Together: How Stephen Sondheim and I Created…
Putting It Together: How Stephen Sondheim and I Created … by James Lapine – A Journey into the Heart of Musical Theatre
As a lifelong admirer of musical theatre, my journey with Stephen Sondheim’s work has always been enriched by the poignant depth and complexity of his storytelling. When I stumbled upon Putting It Together: How Stephen Sondheim and I Created … by James Lapine, I was drawn not only by the allure of Sondheim’s legendary status but also by the unique perspective Lapine offers as a collaborator. This book is a treasure trove, providing an intimate look into the creative processes behind one of Sondheim’s masterpieces, Sunday in the Park with George.
In Putting It Together, Lapine takes us on a vivid journey, recounting the birth of Sunday in the Park with George. It begins with a fictionalized tale of Georges Seurat, whose iconic painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte," serves as both inspiration and backdrop for the narrative. Lapine expertly juxtaposes the themes of artistic obsession and the relentless pursuit of beauty against the realities of human relationships. As I leafed through the pages, I could feel the tension and triumphs experienced by each collaborator in bringing this ambitious project to life, from Sondheim’s relentless pursuit of musical perfection to the laughter and tears shared among the cast and crew.
The writing style is warm and conversational, allowing readers to connect deeply with both Lapine and the anecdotes he shares. His reflections on working with legendary figures like Bernadette Peters and Mandy Patinkin are laced with admiration, but also candidness about the struggles they faced. It’s a reminder that every great art piece is forged in the fires of collaboration, conflict, and compromise. One of Lapine’s insights struck me profoundly: “Art doesn’t just happen; it is created, piece by piece, dot by dot,” resonating with my own experiences in creative endeavors where patience and tenacity are paramount.
In recounting the numerous challenges faced during rehearsals—like the struggle to perfect the now-famous Chromolume—the narrative captures the frenetic energy of bringing a vision to the stage. The anecdotes about tempers flaring and misunderstandings are both relatable and entertaining, painting a picture of a bustling rehearsal space filled with the passion of individuals striving for excellence.
I would be remiss not to mention the thoughtful inclusion of the complete text of the musical, including heartfelt lyrics that highlight key moments. While reading the lyrics is one experience, immersing oneself in the music and performances is another layer entirely that Lapine subtly acknowledges, reminding us of the profound power of musicality.
Putting It Together is more than just a behind-the-scenes look; it’s a celebration of the magic that happens when talented minds collaborate in pursuit of a singular vision. For anyone intrigued by the artistic process, whether a seasoned theatre-goer or a newcomer, this book invites you into the heart of creation, illuminating both the beauty and tumult of bringing art into the world.
I emerged from this reading experience with a renewed appreciation for the labor and love that go into crafting a musical. It reminded me that every standing ovation is built on countless hours of hard work, tears, and victories big and small. If you have ever been moved by a musical and curious about the stories behind the curtain, Lapine’s Putting It Together is a captivating read that offers a window into the extraordinary world of theatrical creation.
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