This work investigates the evolution of the American musical by examining the specific creative personalities and collaborative dynamics that defined the genre's development. Ethan Mordden, a noted historian of the musical theater, utilizes his extensive knowledge of Broadway history to construct a chronological analysis of the industry. He argues that the musical is not merely a collection of songs, but a complex product of specific artistic temperaments and shifting cultural expectations. The text provides a detailed look at the transition from early operetta and vaudeville influences to the sophisticated narrative structures of the mid-twentieth century.

Critics and theater historians frequently cite this work as a comprehensive reference for understanding the foundational figures of Broadway. Readers often note the author's conversational yet authoritative prose style, which balances technical theater history with engaging anecdotes about the industry's most influential personalities.