The Magic Maker: A Portrait of John Langstaff and His Revels

The Magic Maker: A Portrait of John Langstaff and His Revels

208 pages
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Published: 11 Oct 2011
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Editions
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Details

This edition

ISBN: 9780763650407

Format: Hardcover

Language: English

Publisher: Candlewick Press

Publication date: 11 October 2011

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Description

From mischievous child prodigy to the dynamic Lord of the Dance, an engaging look at the life of Revels founder John Langstaff.On Christmas Eve in 1920, John Meredith Langstaff was born into a music-filled home where a rousing, wassailing carol party was the peak of his family’s year. Half a century later, his inspired Christmas Revels was born, a theatrical weaving of traditional song, folkdance, and drama that has become a beloved institution across the country. Now award-winning author Susan Cooper, a friend and writer for the Revels, traces its roots through the rhythms of Jack Langstaff’s life—from star choirboy (and notorious troublemaker) to his early career as a noted recital singer; from a daunting World W ar II injury to his work as recording artist, TV performer, teacher, and children’s author. Along the way, his passion for music, ritual, and community fused to spark the incomparable Revels, a participatory celebration that promises to draw children of all ages for generations to come.