My Name is Not Wigs! by Angela Cobbin
An enthralling journey through time, fashion and theatreland: from hairdressing student in the early 1960s to theatrical wig creator for the biggest shows of our time over five decades – from the West End to Broadway – Box Brownie to Cinemascope. My Name Is Not Wigs is the ultimate read for fans of witty behind-the-curtains memoirs, especially those with a penchant for the bright lights of stage and screen: tears and accolades aplenty! Angela has created wigs for Spitting Image, Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, The Graduate, Witches of Eastwick, Jesus Christ Superstar, La Boheme and Mary Poppins to name a few; at institutions such as Madame Tussauds in London and Amsterdam, The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden and the Royal National Theatre on more than 100 shows; touring the world; and working alongside many of the biggest names in acting including Joan Collins, Judi Dench, Michael Gambon, Celia Imrie and Ian McKellen. ‘A unique backstage story – honest and good-humoured, like the author.’ – Sir Ian McKellen ‘A glorious cavalcade of theatrical gossip and professional achievement in a department of our profession that largely goes unsung.’ – Frances de la Tour ‘A wonderful read and so well written with plenty of fascinating stories.’ – Sir Michael Gambon'A unique backstage story - honest and good-humoured, like the author' - Sir Ian McKellen
'A glorious cavalcade of theatrical gossip and professional achievement in a department of our profession that largely goes unsung.' - Frances de la Tour
'A wonderful read and so well written with plenty of fascinating stories.' - Sir Michael Gambon
Mark Freedman, USA: A fascinating romp through British and American theatre from a backstage view. Angela Cobbin has had a remarkable career as a wig maker and hair stylist to many of theatre's major artists and productions. Her recollections of the stars and sometimes harrowing situations attendant to major productions takes the reader on an enjoyable journey, most often backstage. Reviewed in the United States.
Alyson Wilson, Clapham Society: 'This is a great read, a real page-turner for theatre and opera fans who will be fascinated by the wide range of starry names and the backstage goings-on. On another level , while not exactly a rags-to-riches story, it proves that with ambition, flair and hard work someone from a fairly modest background can achieve an international reputation.'.
Martin Lake, author: Angela Cobbin has spent most of her working life making wigs for theatre, opera and television. I had never given this aspect of the entertainment industry much attention but having read this book, I often find myself peering more closely at the actor's head. I can never tell whether they're wigs or natural. In this delightful, heart-warming book, Angela reveals much about the world above the eyebrows and her role in making wigs and fitting them, often with only seconds to do so. She has made wigs for so many famous names I lost count. Most were real people, some were models in Madame Tussauds, others were puppets of Spitting Image. Her story is told with zest, good humour and modesty. I know Angela personally and reading the book felt like she was sitting beside me, regaling me with anecdotes. If you want to know more about a fascinating backstage part of the entertainment industry you should buy this wonderful account. It's perfect for holiday reads and as a gift for anyone who has a love of theatre, film or opera.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9781839523472 |
| ISBN 10 | 1839523476 |
| Title | My Name is Not Wigs! |
| Author | Angela Cobbin |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Paperback |
| Publisher | Brown Dog Books |
| Year published | 2021-11-11 |
| Number of pages | 224 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |