Overview

"Michael Billington's profoundly informed passion about the theatre is wonderful and touching" Simon Callow


"A pleasure to read ... there is probably nobody currently living who has the knowledge, experience and memory of Michael Billington when it comes to writing a book of this type ... Its value lies not only in its historical and geographical sweep but also the quality of the research and writing ... Michael Billington has written a book that is simultaneously important and enjoyable. Who could ask for anything more?" Philip Fisher, British Theatre Guide


"An entertaining, original and imaginative bird's eye view of British theatre - writers, actors, customs, audiences, social commentary - from Shakespeare to Rattigan conducted by a group of amusingly characterised official guides of each period. Ideal for students and fans alike, there's nothing remotely comparable in the contemporary library of theatre history" Michael Coveney, What's On Stage