This revised and expanded edition of Kislan's acclaimed study of America's musical theater includes a new section on "Recent Musical Theater: Issues and Problems." "The ancient union of drama and song, known as musical theater, comes in many forms - vaudeville, burlesque, comic opera, minstrels, etc. The author reviews these and other highlights of American musicals...with a fascinating background on the elements that contribute to the success of a Showboat." - King Features "Worth study by anyone who still thinks that the musical is a collection of songs." - The Stage