THE CURTAIN FALLS

Behind the scenes in the hectic life of a Broadway producer, and what more certain Open Sesame to popularity is there than a guarantee of an intensely personal, intimate picture of stage craft and stage folk. Joseph Verner Reed gives an honest and vivid account of his own experiences; he calls a spade a spade and does not hesitate to name names, and cite instances. There is color and drama and adventure, there is the lift of enthusiasm, the drop of disillusionment. There are temperamental lady stars, balking scenery, grafting stage hands, impossible expense sheets, endless rehearsals, wolves in sheeps' clothing --the theatre, with the lovable, childish, senseless optimism of theatre people. Says Winthrop Ames: ""He can write! Not a dull page, and we see pictures. A fascinating book."" -- A book which should sell outside New York to everyone who wants to feel in on the know -- and to theatre people everywhere.