Description
Stephanie Lawrence was a leading West End musical theatre performer in the 1980s and ‘90s. Her powerful voice, dancing, and acting captivated audiences in Great Britain and around the world. Her friends remember her as a complex personality but with a heart of gold. Stephanie performed in the era of mega-musicals when shows like Cats, Starlight Express, Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, and Miss Saigon were known for their spare-no-expense spectacular effects and elaborate staging.
She also lived during one of the most exciting periods of British modern history, with the end of austerity following the Second World War, the building of the social security nation, the end of Empire, the near-collapse of the country’s economy in the ‘70s, the dominance of conservative Thatcherism in the ‘80s, and the rise of New Labour in the ‘90s. Stephanie’s untimely death in 2000 robbed her fans of a further showcasing of her talents. This book celebrates her many career achievements and was written in the year commemorating the 20th anniversary of her passing.
Rob Merlevede, author
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
September 2021
Victoria –
Excellent book – Rob weaves Stephanie’s life with key historical events to paint a picture of Stephanie’s life within the time period that she lived. Recommend reading this book for Stephanie Lawrence fans, theatre performers/workers past and present, and anyone else!
Yvette –
This book is a fascinating combination of theatrical lore and the history at play during the life of this talented performer. Stephanie was a complex character and Rob portrayed that beautifully. I recommend this book highly.
John –
An interesting review of a broadway star put within the historical context of the times. An easy-to-read book – well done!
Richard Morris –
A brilliant review of a beautiful and talented lady set in time with historical facts, I really enjoyed reading about how the young girl I knew and loved many years ago worked so hard to become the star she hoped to be, yet still had so much time for us lesser mortals
Dr Stephen Gregson –
This is a remarkable achievement for a first-time author about a remarkable British musical theatre star. Mr Merlevede’s decision to weave Stephanie Lawrence’s story in and out of world events is inspired and artfully done. It also manages to be an eminently readable book, which can be enjoyed by everyone. Ms Lawrence has been much missed since her death at a cruelly young age, but this is more than a fitting tribute to her life and work.
Lily –
An outstanding and well-written tribute to Stephanie Lawrence’s life that can be enjoyed by anyone. Takes you through the ups and downs of historical events as it weaves through her magnificent life. Makes for a perfect gift to musical theatre lovers everywhere!