Books by John Franceschina

A broad survey of representations of homosexuality in the English theatre from the Renaissance to the late 19th century. Chapters present topics such as: a discussion of same-sex behaviour in the ancient and medieval worlds; sodomy and transvestite theatre; and bisexuality in 18th-century drama.

David Braham (1838-1905) was the musical director for the famous vaudeville team of Harrigan and Hart. His long career in New York helped establish a new style of Broadway musical.

Harry B. Smith was the most prolific writer of librettos for the American musical theatre in history, with nearly half of his 300 works actually opening in New York City. He was instrumental in adapting and popularizing foreign musicals in America. This examination of his work and process is instructive of the history of the American musical.