A History of Theater on Cape Cod - by Sue Mellen (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Theater on the Cape began in 1916 when a group of artists and writers in Provincetown mounted a production of a one-act play, Bound East for Cardiff, by a little-known playwright, Eugene O'Neill. They staged the play in a rickety old theater on a wharf in what was then little more than a sleepy fishing village. From that artists' colony--and others like it across the Cape and Islands--it grew into the constantly expanding theater universe it is today. The theatrical descendants of O'Neill and the Provincetown Players continue to present classical drama, contemporary hits and new, experimental works to audiences that have come to expect the best. In her tour of the theaters from Provincetown to Falmouth, author and entertainment columnist Sue Mellen reveals the rich past behind a unique cultural treasure.

Review Quotes

Even the casual theater-goer will appreciate the wealth of information that Sue Mellen provides in her book, A History of Theater on Cape Cod. The story is not only the history of the many diverse, individual theaters that exist on the Cape, but the story of a region and the people who inhabit it. Theater is woven into the social and artistic fabric of Cape Cod and has been for nearly a century. You thoroughly enjoy the experience of learning about this region in this comprehensive history. Toby Wilson, Former Artistic Director of Eventide Theatre Company and member of noted Cape Cod theater family.

Susan Mellen shines a spotlight on a deserving star, Cape Cod theater. Through stories and photos of this beloved craft and tradition, we are ferried through one hundred years of creativity, audacity, perseverance, and star power. Whether birthing, buoying, or booming, the world of performance on Cape Cod has been and will continue to be a steadfast influence on theater everywhere. Ms Mellen's trip from Provincetown to the upper cape is a must-read for any lover of theater and is a wonderful homage to life on The Cape. Elizabeth Adler

This book is a treasure. As a Cape local and theater-goer, it is a thrill to learn the history of all these theaters! The author's obvious love of Cape theater shines through this book. I was especially interested in reading about the colorful Provincetown history, and that part did not disappoint. Meticulously well-researched, AND fun! Sue Henken, Research Librarian, Falmouth Library

The book is a fascinating history and a pleasurable read. So well written and I loved how the author involves her readers in the telling, so it seems like we are having a personal chat with an expert on theatre. Can't believe the mountain of research she did for the book. So much has been written about the history of Cape Cod and about its beauty; it is wonderful to have a book that explores theatre as one of its most important influences in the complex history of the Cape and the theatre world at large. Andrea Aldrovandi, Harwich Historical Society Board Member

Having started my life-long love of Cape Cod theater at the extraordinary Exchange Hall, it's easy to give A History of Theater on Cape Cod an A+ for capturing the magic and back stories of these important places. As an adult, I performed, worked behind the scenes and witnessed the dedication and perseverance of others. Among them was my late mother, pianist Olive Cahoon. She played at many of the theaters Sue profiles: from Highfield Hall to the Cape Cod Melody Circus' first three summers, and her beloved Monomoy Theater, to name a few. It is an honor to share family ephemera with Sue's readers. This outstanding read will transport you well beyond the box office and footlights. Barbara Cahoon

When Sue Mellen mentioned her idea of writing a history of theater on the Cape and Islands, the passion and energy was unmistakably genuine. Her drive and enthusiasm for the topic... contagious. I couldn't wait to read the book, and she absolutely nails the theatrical landscape. It's loaded with amazing stories and incredible first-hand research. Sue translated that desire to chronicle this important slice of culture into a fascinating look at organizations that draw worldly audiences. As a young girl immersed in theater for a few summers at Cape Cod Theatre Company (then Harwich Junior Theater in its West Harwich home), I lucked out with classes taught by the fabulous Betty Bobp. Sue's profile of CCTC undoubtedly will carry other alums down memory lane.

A History of Theatre on Cape Cod is so thoroughly researched and accessible. Reading it, one can feel the sand between the boards! It gave me such a deep appreciation for the roots of theatre on our peninsula. A reverie of what came before, we stand on the shoulders of passionate giants. This book describes the devotion of so many talented thespians who kept it all going; often against all odds. It's a roadmap to keep theatre alive for future generations. Nina Schuessler, Producing Artistic Director, Cape Cod Theatre Company