Amadeus

i read this once, years ago, and never forgot it. since then i have been looking for it off and on, and now i have it! if you think the film gets personal, wait till you read this play! salieri and mrs. mozart? salieri and catherine? salieri teaching beethoven?all this and more just waiting to be read by YOU!! pick up a copy today!

Almost undoubtedly Schaeffer's best play, an engrossing subject richly written with intelligent humour and a wonderful blend of modern and almost stylised language. However the second act feels slightly repetitive in structure and slightly overlong, plus, I feel, the ending of the piece feels a little disappointing and unforgettable - it lacks slightly in finesse given the calibre of the play up to that point. Otherwise a very strong play.

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I'm surprised no one mentioned this, but at the back of the book, there is the score for the transformation of Salieri's welcome march to Mozart's "Non Piu Andrai". It's a delightful little supplement.

I haven't yet seen the play, but upon reading the script it seems like it would be very good on stage. I always enjoy plays that give a new take on historical figures. Even if it's not accurate, it's really fun for someone who doesn't know much about Motzart to see him given a life and personality on the stage. 4 stars instead of 5 for its innacuracy, but still a decent read!