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This lavishly illustrated study captures cultural trends & influential individuals in one of the world's most fascinating & idiosyncratic cities. It chronicles a period of change which began in 1869, as largely home-grown entertainment gave way to a profusion of imported stars arriving by rail. Profiled are such figures as David Belasco, Sarah Bernhardt, Isadora Duncan, the team of Bert Williams & George Walker, & the cabaret offerings of the Barbary Coast. Berson sets the scene for the revolution in dance which emerged from the region. She concludes with the devastating impact of the 1906 earthquake & fire. "The world of live performance...shimmers with a mirage-like unreality. ...Celebrates the profusion & variety of San Francisco entertainment in the late 19th century without making inflated claims for its enduring merit." --Steven Winn, SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE. Contains a detailed index & more than 100 illustrations. Part I, THE SAN FRANCISCO STAGE: FROM GOLD RUSH TO GOLDEN SPIKE, 1849-1869, also by Berson, appeared in 1989. Both volumes available postpaid for $30 from SF PALM, 399 Grove St., S.F. CA 94102. (415) 255-4800. FAX 415-255-1913.