The Footlights, Fore and Aft

"The Footlights, Fore and Aft" by Channing Pollock is a funny and smart collection of essays that give readers a peek into the theater world from over a century ago. Pollock, who has worked as a critic, playwright, and press agent, shares stories and advice about everything from writing plays to putting on performances and dealing with the different personalities involved. Instead of being a dry, serious analysis, the book is full of wit and personal experiences, like funny misunderstandings about how plays come to be and what really happens behind the scenes. Pollock shows how important it is to know both the creative and business parts of theater, making the book an entertaining and educational read about all the interesting and strange things that go on in the theater.