A sumptuous illustrated celebration of 'The Lord of the Rings' stage show, which examines in detail through exclusive interviews and photographs the creation of one of the world's most ambitious theatre adaptations. Contains over 120 full-colour photos and illustrations combined to provide the fascinating story of how a big-budget show is born. 'The Lord of the Rings' stage show will be the biggest, most expensive production ever mounted, combining in three acts the spectacle of 'Cirque du Soleil' and the theatrical entertainment of 'The Lion King', together with special visual effects never before seen on a live stage. Published to coincide with the London gala premiere in June 2007, the book is a sumptuous coffee-table celebration of the sets, costumes and design of the show. It reveals the incredible story of how Emmy award-winning producer Kevin Wallace secured the rights to the 'Holy Grail' of theatre from showbiz legend, Saul Zaentz, how the script has changed with the evolution of the show, and features in-depth interviews with the key members of the team, among them Tony-nominated director Matthew Warchus, scriptwriter Shaun McKenna, Musical Director Chris Nightingale, and designer Rob Howell. Together, these people have created what will certainly be remembered as 'the greatest show on Middle-earth' -- this companion contains 120 full-colour photos and illustrations, combine to provide the fascinating illustrated story of how a big-budget show is born, and how the most famous book and movie trilogy in the world can be transformed into the most breathtaking musical production ever to appear on stage.