Inscribed first edition, a paperback original, of the book publication of Van Peebles's groundbreaking musical, based on three of his proto-hip-hop spoken-word albums.
Near fine.
Price: $750.00
"The songs on stage were mirroring the incidents that were happening in the streets." — Melvin Van Peebles
AINT SUPPOSED TO DIE A NATURAL DEATH was originally produced at Sacramento State College in 1970 and later opened on Broadway on October 20, 1971. The show ran for a total of 325 performances with a cast that included Bill Duke, Albert Hall, Garrett Morris, and Beatrice Winde — with Ossie Davis and Phylicia Rashad joining the production in 1972. Built around 19 monologues that explore the African American urban experience, AINT SUPPOSED TO DIE was nominated for eight Tony Awards, and won three Drama Desk Awards. A revival was mounted in 2022, with Melvin's son, the director Mario, serving as producer. Though issued by a major publisher, the first edition remains quite uncommon, and it is especially scarce signed.
Read more: Suzanna Bowling, "Melvin Van Peebles' Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death Coming To Broadway," Times Square Chronicles.
First printing. New York: Bantam, (1973). 7'' x 4.25''. Original color pictorial wraps. 156 pages, plus a 16-page insert of black-and-white images from the original production. Inscribed by Van Peebles to the title page: "To sweet / sweet Mary / from [(yes)?] [arrow] / Melvin / Van Peebles." Some toning to edges, touches of shelfwear. Else clean and sound.
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