num_pages: 592
description: Hailed by The New York Times Book Review as "rich and entertaining as well as monumental," John Houseman's autobiography is the story of a man who for fifty years has been one of the most original and innovative figures in American theatre, motion pictures, and television, as well as the friend and collaborator of almost every major personality on the American cultural scene. Beginning with "Run-Through" and "Front &amp; Center", the first two volumes of his memoirs, Houseman gave readers an unforgettable account of his life in show business up to 1955. Now, in this climactic third volume, he examines the later stages of his astonishing career and recreates the years of his life up to 1974. With his usual wit, mordant humor and gift of total recollection, he vividly describes his tenure as Artistic Director of American Shakespeare Festival, his work in television, his return to producing movies, his stint as a director of opera, and his years as Director of the Drama Division of the Juilliard School. He recalls his Oscar-winning performance as the demanding Professor Kingsfield in the "The Paper Chase" a role that brought him, at an age when most men have long since retired, an almost awesome celebrity and made his face and voice among the most instantly recognizable in America. Described by "Publishers Weekly" as an "informative, absorbing, highly entertaining "Final Dress" is not only the continuing story of a career unique in its breadth, richness, and uncompromising pursuit of excellence. It is, with "Run-Through" and "Front &amp; Center", one of the great theatrical sagas of our time.
language: English
title: Final Dress
titlecomplete: Final Dress
genres: Biography
ratings_count: 18
publisher: Holiday House