I often hear people talk about composers who are considered the best but I was curious to know who do people consider some of the best book writers, especially of the past twenty years? I myself thoroughly enjoy Harvey Fierstein's work though I would guess I am in the minority on that one based on some other opinions I've read.
Hugh Wheeler for sure (also a strong screenplay writer even his uncredited stuff like helping Cabaret). Was also gonna mention Lapine who is vastly underrated (honestly I think all of Sondheim's collaborators have been good to great, but of course are in his shadow and in some cases definitely did better work with him than anywhere else.). And Hell, I'll add Ashman and Hammersmith (who doesn't get the credit due for virtually inventing the modern musical theatre libretto) there too.
I find Terrence McNally a less and less interesting playwright on his own but I find his musicals books--all adaptations it seems--very strong. ragtime, Man of No Importance, Spider Woman, Full Monty... Ok a few misfires too, but.
I think Joe Masteroff is underrated. She Loves Me arguably improves on its brilliant source material. Cabaret was ostensibly based primarily on I Am a Camera but is much better--better dialogue, focus and the Herr Shultz story was his invention not existing in the stories or play. Also, unlike when Furth revised Company with Sondheim and Goldman revised Follies with Sondheim (two under appreciated books) Masteroff's revisions to Cabaret in 1987--written in a manner of weeks between the revival's pre tour and Broadway opening--honestly strengthen and improve the work.
I agree with just about every name already listed.
Some that haven't been mentioned yet (or I possibly missed them)
Larry Gelbart Comden & Green Michael Stewart
Harvey Firestien - Everything after La Cage pales in comparison but that alone would get him on the list
Craig Lucas, Doug Wright, Lisa Kron, Tony Kushner are all playwrights more respected for their plays (with the possible exception of Kron) but each of them have written a libretto that surprised and moved me. I would absolutely love to see them apply their unique vision to another musical world.
EricMontreal22 said: "Hugh Wheeler for sure (also a strong screenplay writer even his uncredited stuff like helping Cabaret).
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He was credited for Cabaret. I remember being (pleasantly) surprised a couple months ago when re-watching Cabaret and noticing his name in the credits.
¿Macavity? said: "EricMontreal22 said: "Hugh Wheeler for sure (also a strong screenplay writer even his uncredited stuff like helping Cabaret).
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He was credited for Cabaret. I remember being (pleasantly) surprised a couple months ago when re-watching Cabaret and noticing his name in the credits.
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Obviously I am in need of a re-watch (I bought the BluRay last Summer, but haven't watched it yet--a bad habit of mine with DVDs). Thanks for the correction!