Shapiro's 384-page tome is subtitled "Conversations with the Great Women of Musical Theater," and features interviews with 20 female musical theatre stars. Olivier winner Elaine Paige wrote the foreword. It will be published Feb. 7.

Held from 6-8 PM at the headquarters of Oxford University Press (198 Madison Avenue), the launch event promises hors d'oeuvres, wine, champagne and a chance to meet some of the "dames," including Benanti, Kaye, Monk, McKechnie, Murphy, Uggams, White and Ziemba.

Tickets are $50 and include a complimentary copy of the book. A limited number of $150 VIP tickets are also available and include a photo with the author and the dames in attendance. Visit broadwaycares.org/dame for tickets.

"Nothing Like a Dame" also includes lengthy interviews with Elaine Stritch, Carol Channing, Chita Rivera, Angela Lansbury, Betty Buckley, Patti LuPone, Bebe Neuwirth, Victoria Clark, Audra McDonald, Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel and Sutton Foster.

Within the pages of the book, "The women discuss their careers, offer insights into iconic shows, changes on Broadway over the last century, as well as both the art and thrill of taking the stage night after night."

Shapiro is the co-author of "The Actors Encyclopedia of Casting Directors" and "Queens in the Kingdom: The Ultimate Gay and Lesbian Guide to the Disney Theme Parks."