Michael Riedel Books In Order

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

About Michael Riedel
An American broadcaster and author, Michael Riedel is well known for his unique and incisive observations, largely focusing on the theatre and Broadway. Working as a theatre critic, his insight into Broadway as an outspoken voice has led to him becoming a respected voice throughout the New York theatre scene. Not one to hold back on his opinions, he’s always willing to speak his mind, grabbing attention far and wide with what he has to say. Whether it’s his own books or his various public appearances, columns, and articles, he always has something to say.

Writing for a variety of different publications over the years, whether it’s simply writing himself, or working as an editor, his name is respected by many. It is his own books that also deal with the world of Broadway, looking at its history, and providing his own perspective on what it means. Focusing on non-fiction titles, his work is informative, both to those with a vested interest and newcomers alike. Making it accessible to readers from all backgrounds, his work is read by a worldwide audience looking to learn more on the phenomenon of Broadway.

A firm fixture for many publications such as the ‘New York Post,’ he’s become a familiar face for many, as well as being a trusted source. Getting straight to the heart of what he’s writing about, he writes in a matter-of-fact manner, often with a dry wit and humor. This has become his trademark signature style, leading to him becoming one of the foremost figures in the theatre critic scene. With a lot more to come, he’ll continue to write for a long time yet, as there’s a lot more planned for the future.

Early and Personal Life
Born in 1966 on the 24th of December, Michael Riedel would grow up in Genesco, New York, with his father an athletic director, and his mother a librarian. Originally wanting to be a politician and a lawyer, he always had a smart wit about him from a young age growing up. Developing as a writer over time, sharpening his skills in the art of criticism, as he’d continue this interest into higher education.

Attending John Hopkins University initially, but later transferring to Columbia University after just one year, he’d soon move into broadcasting. Speaking regularly on a radio-show at university on musical theatre, he’d begin to establish a name for himself as a trusted opinion on the subject. Still writing to this day, continuing to speak on the subject, as well as appearing regularly throughout the press, he’ll carry on for some time to come.

Writing Career
Over the years, Michael Riedel has written extensively on musical theatre, particularly that of the Broadway scene. Working in various other capacities too, from a gossip columnist to theatre critic, he’s mostly looked at speculation in and around Broadway and its many productions. This had flowed into writing his books as well, which have taken this interest and developed it even further.

The first of these was brought out in 2015 and was titled ‘Razzle Dazzle,’ and he later followed this up in 2020 with ‘Singular Sensation.’ Both of these would cast a light on the real history of Broadway and how it has developed over the years. Winning awards and acclaim for his work, he’s also featured in various different capacities throughout the media, as his name has become synonymous with New York Broadway theatre critics.

Razzle Dazzle: The Battle for Broadway
Originally published through the Simon Schuster publishing label in 2015 on October the 1st, this would be Riedel’s first account of Broadway’s history. Not being a part of any overall series, it would be followed up later on, but it’s a stand-alone work of non-fiction. Telling the story of Broadway’s progress as an industry, it charts its rise and success, along with all the musicals it’s produced.

During the 1970s New York City and Times Square would be in an economic slump, facing decline and bankruptcy. Amidst the grit and squalor of the back-alleys though, the Shubert Organization is losing theatres all over the city, as Jerry Schoenfeld and Bernard Jacobs step up to take over. Bringing the company back, they revitalize Broadway and much of New York, rebuilding an entire industry back to its glory day. Making it bigger and brighter than ever before, Broadway is new once more, bring in that old razzle dazzle.

As historical work of non-fiction, this really works well in documenting a period in Broadway and New York’s history. Telling the story with wit, humor and warmth, Riedel manages to shine a light on this exciting and invigorating chapter. Bringing New York to life, it’s a must for fans of Broadway and its history, looking at the long lasting impact of its legacy.

Singular Sensation: The Triumph of Broadway
Once again published through the Simon Schuster publishing label, this would initially come out on the 10th of November in 2020. Providing another historical account of Broadway, it continues the history of industry with another non-fiction stand-alone title that’s self-contained. Charting not just the industry, but the musicals and plays themselves, it looks at the many individuals that have passed through over the years.

This time taking place in the 1990s, the book follows Broadway’s progress through the period with the rise British writers and directors in the industry. Bringing over many plays and productions of their own, a new style was emerging, with new sensibilities and approaches to the form of musical. It was also the case that stage-plays were making a return as well, with large stage productions becoming popular with audiences too. Later moving through the events of 9/11, the book charts how Broadway continued despite the obstacles place before, becoming the singular triumph that it is today.

There’s plenty here to keep a variety of different readers engaged and interested, whether they knew much about Broadway before or not. Featuring not just the economics, but also the gossip behind the scenes, it’s fun and interesting in an easy-to-read direct manner. Readers from all over will enjoy this title, as it brings to life the lights and music of Broadway show-business one more time.