Showtime: Meet the People Behind the Scenes

Description

Find out about the "other" stars in show business. There are hundreds of people who make a live show worth seeing: the entertainers on stage, of course, but also the many people behind the scenes whose work ensures that the show will be a success. Set designer Machiko Weston meticulously creates miniature 3D sets that capture the smallest detail of what the actual stage will look like. Long-haul trucker Ben Pinel makes sure that instruments, lights, and speakers get to the venue safely and on time. And if onstage fireworks, laser shows, and special effects are appealing, the job of pyrotechnics expert comes with its fair share of excitement-and danger. Readers will learn about other behind-the-scenes people such as costume designer, promoter, vocal coach, and more: all people whose job it is to make sure that every show is the best one ever.

Kevin Sylvester is an award-winning illustrator, author, and a well-known broadcaster on CBC radio. His last book with Annick Press, "Game Day," was nominated by the OLA for the Silver Birch Award. He lives with his family in Toronto.

This book highlights some of the behind-the-scenes professionals who work together... Each profile includes a snapshot of a typical day as well as quotes about some of the unique aspects of the job....[It] also includes a chart of practical tips for students who may be considering this particular career path... Overall, this title provides an honest look at several lesser-known careers in the music business, and it shows that there are many ways to be a part of this industry besides being in the spotlight.--Anne Bozievich, Library Media Specialist, Friendsh"Library Media Connection" (04/01/2014) Showtime introduces a range of diverse and fascinating people working behind the scenes to make live stage performances fun, safe, and memorable. Kevin Sylvester writes in a clear voice, at an accessible level, without talking down to readers. The book is presented as a series of profiles of people working in various sub-sectors of the performing arts... The profiles are compact but loaded with detail. The main text is supported by numerous sidebars and every profile wraps up with tips for readers who can envision themselves doing similar work in the future... I strongly recommend this book for inclusion in school and classroom libraries.--Leslie Vermeer"Resource Links, Vol. 18, No. 5" (06/01/2013) Sylvester explores some of the jobs that must be performed in order that the front up stars in the entertainment field can shine. Using broad strokes, Sylvester explains how each person came to her/his occupation and describes what's generally involved in performing that job. Sylvester's words are fleshed out by direct quotes from an individual who is occupying that role... One of Showtime's real strengths is the wide range of occupations, from blue to white collar, that it presents... Like Game Day, Showtime is an excellent recreational read, one which offers most palatable vocational guidance. Highly Recommended.--Dave Jenkinson"Canadian Materials, Vol. XIX, No. 38" (05/31/2013)