Everything Was Possible (Updated Edition) Audiobook By Ted Chapin cover art

Everything Was Possible (Updated Edition)

The Birth of the Musical Follies

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Everything Was Possible (Updated Edition)

By: Ted Chapin
Narrated by: Jonathan Groff
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As the sole production assistant for Stephen Sondheim’s Follies, Ted Chapin had a front row seat for the creation of one of the most important American musicals of all time. He kept a detailed journal of his experiences, and his rich storehouse of memories forms the core of Everything Was Possible, which itself has become a modern classic of musical theater history. Chapin was there in the drama-filled rehearsal room, typed endless rewrites, ferried new songs around town, pampered the film and television stars in the cast, and traveled with the show to its Boston tryout and back to New York for the opening night on Broadway.

Combining the zeal of an enthusiast with a journalist’s narrative chops, Chapin takes the listener on a roller-coaster ride through the creation of an original Broadway musical.

Updated to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of Follies, this edition includes a new afterword that brings the history of the show forward to today, diving into recent productions around the world, new recordings, the continued promise of a film version, and the legacy of the show in the wake of Stephen Sondheim’s death in 2021.

©2003 Ted Chapin (P)2022 Recorded Books Entertainment & Performing Arts Theater
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An opportunity to re-live the magic one more time through the author's eyes and the narrator's voice. Thank you! What a treat! 🙂

An inside look

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never wanted it to end. what a testament to time, place, and the vitality of the american musical at its zenith.

remarkable

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I loved this book from the first note to the last. A divinely intimate and detailed account of what it took to get this show up and running all the way to opening night on Broadway. Superbly narrated by Jonathan Groff who conveys the youthful innocence and enthusiasm of the young ( at the time) author. One of the very best theater memoirs I have read ( or listened to!)

A true standout in theater books!

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This is obviously THE book for Follies fans. A true insider’s take on how this audacious show was built from ground up. Chaplin tells it all truthfully with no maliciousness towards anyone, and you really get a sense of being there. Brilliant choice having the wonderful Jonathan Groff read. It’s an absolute pleasure listening to him.

Beyond outstanding

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A detailed behind the scenes account of the making of a Broadway musical beautifully read by Jonathan Groff. Possibly the best narration ever - conversational in a smooth, soothing tone rich with anecdotes. Highly recommended!

Simply wonderful!

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The book has a perfect author (and pretty modest about himself - great job, Ted) and a perfect narrator and the most compelling story. I really can’t quite believe I didn’t read it before. My loss - but I’ve read it now!

It’s absolutely everything

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With Jonathan Groff’s warm and inviting narration, listening to Ted Chapin’s invaluable 2003 chronicle of the original “Follies” has the feel of a first-rate revival. Almost 20 years later, the book feels fresh, and is as fascinating and insightful as ever. Groff’s charming narration is marred only by his bizarre pronunciations of Yvonne De Carlo’s first name and Ethel Shutta’s last. Do authors ever listen to their own audiobooks before they’re released?

Everything Was Possible:The Revival

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Ted Chapin’s unique perspective as a young production assistant for the Broadway musical Follies is essential for anyone with a love for the theatre. I highly recommend.

I agree with another listener review which questions Jonathan Groff’s mispronouncing Ethel Shutta (should be pronounced "shoo-TAY") and Yvonne deCarlo’s first name (Yee Von?). Otherwise, Jonathan is just the right voice for this book.

Excellent, Unique Look at Follies

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An miracle of a book! An incredible play by play of the creation of Follies by someone who was “in the room where it happened.” Wonderfully read by Jonathan Groff.

Fascinating!

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