In the first installment of our new "Essential Tools" series, we review The Vigin Encyclopedia of Stage & Film Musicals.

Colin Larkin's Encyclopedia of Stage & Film Musicals became part of my collection when it caught my eye during a late-night wandering in a used book store. Since then it has quickly become my first reference whenever I need information on a particular composer or show, and has earned a permanent place of honour on my desk.

While many musical theatre reference books ignore the history and impact of musical films, this one puts the two together, listing shows and their film versions separately but back to back, allowing you to compare them easily. Information is listed alphabetically by show but also by performer and composer/lyricist/choreographer. While no book could possibly contain everything, this one certainly takes a good shot at it, with entries on many lesser-known musicals and long-forgotten films.

This reference book has a variety of uses beyond simply reading the basic plotline of a particular show. It includes commentary on social context, cast, script revisions, and various revivals. If you have an interest in expanding your musical library, Larkin's biographical entries include a rated discography.

Despite being called an "encyclopedia", this book is remarkably easy and fun to read, full of many interesting and often humorous tidbits. I frequently grab it just to look up a quick fact and then find myself still reading a half hour later. While no book can ever hope to keep track of the most recent additions to Broadway, this one certainly fills in what you may have missed prior to the year 2000. If you have any interest whatsoever in the history of American and British musical theatre, I highly recommend adding this reference book to your library.

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