14 Must-Read Books for Musical Theatre Performers
Life-Changing Reads That Will Transform Your Career, Creativity, and Mindset
As a professional actress, former musical theatre professor, and coach to performers around the world, I’ve read a lot of books. But these 14? They’ve truly shaped my life onstage and off.
Whether you’re a student in a BFA program, a working performer, or navigating the creative in-between, these books offer something vital: perspective, inspiration, healing, and growth.
Each title is categorized to help you find what you need right now.
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🎭 Category 1: Musical Theatre History
These books are essential if you love diving into Broadway’s past or want to understand the artform you’re building a career in.
Changed for Good: A Feminist History of the Broadway Musical by Stacy Wolf
A must-read for every musical theatre artist, this book takes a feminist lens to Broadway history spotlighting shows like Wicked and challenging traditional narratives.Reframing the Musical: Race, Culture, and Identity (Edited by Sarah Whitfield)
A brilliant collection of essays exploring race and representation in the musical theatre canon. Insightful, necessary, and thought-provoking.Shy: The Alarmingly Outspoken Memoirs of Mary Rodgers by Mary Rodgers
A juicy and unfiltered look behind the scenes of Broadway’s Golden Age, including stories about Sondheim, Bernstein, and her famous father, Richard Rodgers.
💬 Category 2: Life Experiences
Books by performers for performers offering a glimpse into their creative journeys.
Hooked: A Memoir of Crafting by Sutton Foster
Candid and beautifully written, Sutton’s memoir goes beyond performance to share the personal threads that make up her artistry.Sounds Like Me: My Life (So Far) in Song by Sara Bareilles
Honest, vulnerable, and filled with heart. Sara’s reflections will speak to any artist who’s navigating fame, fear, and finding their voice.Finding Me by Viola Davis
Not specifically musical theatre, but a powerful look at a stage actor’s resilience, identity, and emotional truth.
🔥 Category 3: Creative Inspiration
Need a boost? These books remind you why you create and how to keep going when it’s hard.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
A classic for a reason. If fear is holding you back, this book will help you set it down and pick up your creativity with joy again.The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
Deeply grounding and beautifully written. This is one to keep on your desk and revisit when you're feeling blocked or burnt out.
🧠 Category 4: Mindset & Mental Resilience
Because being an artist requires more than talent it takes mental strength.
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
A simple but powerful guide to navigating your thoughts and relationships in a business filled with rejection and judgment.The Self-Acceptance Project (Edited by Tami Simon)
A collection of essays and tools to help you find peace within yourself. Especially helpful during transitions, setbacks, or creative doubt.
💖 Category 5: Health & Wellness
Your voice, body, and heart are your instruments and these books help take care of them.
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
A deeply important book for any performer processing stress, trauma, or emotional overwhelm. Essential reading.How Not to Die by Michael Greger
A science-backed look at nutrition and wellness for longevity perfect for performers who want energy, stamina, and clarity.Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
A roadmap to naming and navigating emotions. It will change how you communicate with collaborators—and yourself.
🎁 Bonus Pick: My Personal Growth Go-To
Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration by Meera Lee Patel
A beautiful, reflective journal that’s guided me through quiet seasons. It’s a perfect gift to yourself or another artist.
💬 Final Thoughts: Read to Grow
Your life as a musical theatre artist is a journey and these books are some of the best companions I’ve found along the way. Whether you’re craving inspiration, clarity, emotional support, or a deeper understanding of the industry, there’s something on this list for you.
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Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers thrive onstage and off. She brings over two decades of experience and a unique perspective from her bi-coastal lifestyle as a working artist. A former college professor, she now splits her time between performing, coaching, and creating digital resources to support other artists. Follow her on Instagram or check out the Musical Theatre Mentor YouTube channel for weekly career advice.
