Thursday 14 June 2018

Book ~ "In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox" (2016) Carol Burnett

From Goodreads ~ Who but Carol Burnett herself has the timing, talent, and wit to pull back the curtain on the Emmy-Award winning show that made television history for eleven glorious seasons?

"In Such Good Company" delves into little-known stories of the guests, sketches and antics that made the show legendary, as well as some favorite tales too good not to relive again. Carol lays it all out for us, from the show’s original conception to its evolution into one of the most beloved primetime programs of its generation.

Written with all the charm and humor fans expect from a masterful entertainer like Carol Burnett, In Such Good Company skillfully highlights the elements that made the show so successful in a competitive period when TV variety shows ruled the air waves. Putting the spotlight on everyone from her talented costars to her amazing guest stars—the most celebrated and popular entertainers of their day—Carol crafts a lively portrait of the talent and creativity that went into every episode.

This book is Carol's love letter to a golden era in television history through the lens of her brilliant show which won no less than 25 Emmy Awards! Get the best seat in the house as she reminisces about the outrageous tales that made working on the show as much fun as watching it.

Now in her mid-80s, Carol Burnett is an American actress, comedian, singer and writer. She is best known for her TV variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, which ran from 1967 to 1978. She has achieved success on stage, television and film in dramatic and comedy roles.

This book is Carol telling stories with a focus on The Carol Burnett Show ... the cast (Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, Lyle Waggoner and Tim Conway),  guest stars and friendships (including Dick Van Dyke, Lucille Ball, Roddy Mcdowell, Jim Nabors, Bernadette Peters, Betty Grable, Steve Lawrence, Eydie Gorme, Gloria Swanson, Rita Hayworth and Betty White), the people behind the scenes (like Bob Mackie, her costume designer, the dancers, orchestra, writers, cameramen, etc.), the show’s opening Q&A, her favorite sketches, boopers and more.  Some of the stories are repeats from This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection.

I like reading bios/autobios.  I thought this book was a light but interesting read.  I liked the writing style ... Carol's personality comes through.  She's not mean or gossipy.  The chapter/stories are quick and she doesn't go into a lot of detail (the stories are pretty high level).  After reading this book, I'd like to rewatch some of the shows to see if they stand the test of time.

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