Krazy Kat in Song and Dance

Musical motifs and lyrical movement in Krazy Kat are as characteristic asthe brick and changing landscapes in this greatest of all comic strips, and thislandmark Marschall Books project will complete the circle for Kat fanciers.This book-and-disk set will explore with the multi-media lives of the kat whowalks - and dances - among us. A birthday part for Krazy and all his (or is ither?) fans: An unprecedented treatment of the legendary Krazy Kat jazz balletand rare animated cartoons. Another aspect of George Herriman's genius!

This unique package is a collection of other-media manifestations of KrazyKat. Its centerpiece is the rare, landmark "jazz pantomime" surreal ballet from1921. Regarded as a landmark in American musical history, the avant-garde score has seldom been performed since itsdebut in Town Hall in New York City's theater district.

Contents include a full history of Herriman's career-long interest in the other popular arts, and his creative involvementwith this jazz ballet written by preeminent comic strip historian Rick Marschall. unpublished color drawings, sketchesfor the ballet's character and costume design, and artwork for the score will be featured in a distinctive booklet that is onecomponent of this set. The noted composer John Alden Carpenter will be profiled through his avant-garde score, personalnotes, and contemporary reviews. As a bonus, this set will also examine and present dozens of vintage Krazy Kat animatedcartoons from throughout the years, especially from the 'teens, when Herriman's oversight was promoted.

The format of the "book" is an ingeniously designed hinged slipcase that folds out to present two lovely booklets onone side and a DVD on the other containing Krazy Kat animated cartoons and the musical accompanying the ballet.