Podcast appearances and mentions of Harvey Fierstein

Host Jason Blitman talks to author S.A. Cosby (King of Ashes) about books that inspired Cosby early in his writing, the plot holes he found in fairy tales as a kid, his appreciation of Shakespeare's work, and his commitment to being an LGBTQIA+ ally. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader, author and theatre producer Richie Jackson, who shares what he's been reading and reflects on the personal motivation behind writing Gay Like Me—a heartfelt legacy project intended as a guide and love letter to his son.S. A. Cosby is a New York Times bestselling writer from southeastern Virginia. He is the author of All the Sinners Bleed, which was on more than forty Best of the Year lists, including Barack Obama's, as well as Edgar Award finalist Razorblade Tears and Los Angeles Times Book Prize winner Blacktop Wasteland. He has also won the Anthony Award, ITW Thriller Award, Barry Award, Macavity Award, BCALA Award, and Audie Award and has been longlisted for the ALA Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence.Richie Jackson is the author of the best-selling book Gay Like Me published by HarperCollins. He is an award-winning Broadway, television, and film producer who produced the Tony Award-nominated Harvey Fierstein's Torch Song on Broadway and executive produced Showtime's Nurse Jackie (Emmy and Golden Globe nominee for “Best Comedy Series”) for seven seasons. His writing has appeared in O The Oprah Magazine, Out, Town & Country, and The Advocate. As an alumnus of NYU, he endows a program at his alma mater to train the next generation of LGBTQ+ activists called the Richie Jackson LGBTQ+ Service Fellows. He and his husband, Jordan Roth, were honored with The Trevor Project's Trevor Hero Award. They are the proud parents of two extraordinary sons. BOOK CLUB!Sign up for the Gays Reading Book Club HERE for only $1July Book: Disappoint Me by Nicola Dinan SUBSTACK!https://gaysreading.substack.com/ MERCH!http://gaysreading.printful.me PARTNERSHIP!Use code READING to get 15% off your madeleine order! https://cornbread26.com/ WATCH!https://youtube.com/@gaysreading FOLLOW!Instagram: @gaysreading | @jasonblitmanBluesky: @gaysreading | @jasonblitmanCONTACT!hello@gaysreading.com

AI makes up summer activities, Siri is a four-letter word and there is such a thing as a free lunch.Oops, we made up a bunch of things that don't exist and then published them in newspapers.404 Media tracked down the person responsible.Mark Gurman discusses Apple's AI woes.Google's new AI can now make actual words so that's great.No one wants to buy expensive art in this economy.Fortnite is using an AI version of James Earl Jones's voice for Darth Vader.Correction: Moltz said he saw Nathan Fielder in Hairspray which is laughably incorrect, it was Harvey Fierstein. He regrets the error.If you want to help out the show and get some great bonus content, consider becoming a Rebound Prime member! Just go to prime.reboundcast.com to check it out!Were you aware that you could buy things from us?! That's right! Shirts, iPhone cases, mugs, hats and one other type of thing are all available from our Rebound Store!

We ended this season with style, substance, and no shortage of side-eye as we celebrated identity, fashion, community, and trans resilience. From Black dandyism to queer travel safety tips, and a healthy dose of real talk—you already know we came ready.Show Notes:Hosts: Felicia “Fefe” Minor and Freddy Prinze CharmingHousekeeping:Join our Patreon: patreon.com/livewithfefeandfreddyExclusive merch drops available—stickers, mugs, tees, and totesHuge thanks to our patrons and sponsor WigsofaKind for their support this seasonLet's Talk About Us:Freddy:Long night in TucsonWeekend rehearsalsStarted watching Poly FamilyFelicia:Got her first Cameo requestWatched the Met Gala live for the first timeJust the Tip – ALL THE TIPS (Season Finale Edition):Tapping into Your Inner Dandy:Style as self-expression, especially within the Black communityHow Black dandyism evolved as resistance and identityWays to elevate your fashion game: tailoring, accessories, color, and confidenceThis year's Met Gala theme celebrated Black dandyism with stunning resultsTrans History Week:Highlighted influential trans pioneers including Dora Richter, Dr. Alan Hart, Lou Sullivan, and CoccinelleHonoring the legacy and impact of trans individuals in medicine, activism, and lawTraveling While Trans and/or Queer:U.S. carries a “Do Not Travel” advisory for trans individuals—safety mattersHigh-risk states include TX and FLTips for staying safe while on the road:Keep ID documents currentAvoid solo long drives through high-risk areasShare your location, stick to well-lit stops, and have a travel buddyTrust your instincts—remove yourself from unsafe situationsA Closer Look at Current Events:Import tariffs driving prices up—145% increases on apps like Temu and SHEINGeorge Santos sentenced to 7+ years for fraud and identity theftTrump vs. Bezos: Amazon exposes tariff costs, and Twitler is madMen are shaving off eyelashes because... masculinity?RFK Jr. says fluoride lowers IQ—what are we even doingPoland repeals final “LGBT-free zone”Harvey Fierstein to receive Lifetime Achievement TonyMet Gala raised $31 million for Black fashion historyFormer Memphis officers acquitted in Tyre Nichols' deathIndia-Pakistan tensions escalate with deadly missile strikesUpcoming Shows & Events:May 16 – Drag Bingo + Cats at PHX Cat CafeMay 24 – Drag Story Hour AZ Annual Fundraiser (20% off with promo code)May 29 – Drag Bingo at Drink Me! Tea RoomJune 5 – Second Annual MPI AZ Drag Bingo at Warehouse 215June 6 – PFF Dragstravaganza (free with con pass)June 7–8 – Drag Story Hour AZ at Phoenix Fan FusionSeptember 4 – Sex Trivia returns to Gracie's Tax BarEnd of Show:Thank you for an incredible Season 13Special thanks to our live viewers, replay watchers, and podcast listenersOver 15,000 downloads and growingSee you soon for more honest, bold, fabulous conversations on Live! with Fefe & FreddyListen on Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream podcasts.

In this episode, cultural historian and literary scholar Golan Moskowitz discusses his current book project, which explores the cultural history of Jewish drag and its relationship with Jewish identity in America. Through detailed analysis of significant figures such as Adah Isaacs Mencken, Flawless Sabrina, Harvey Fierstein, Charles Busch, Sadie Sadie the Rabbi Lady, and Sasha Velour, Moskowitz highlights how Jewishness and drag have intertwined to challenge social norms and reflect shifting cultural and political climates. He also delves into the concept of 'transcreativity' and how Jewish drag performers have contributed to broader American drag culture, emphasizing the importance of recognizing queer, trans, and non-binary Jews in the art of drag.

durée : 00:25:49 - "La Cage aux folles", adaptation à succès à Broadway de la pièce de Jean Poiret (1983) - La Cage aux folles est une comédie musicale dont le livret a été écrit par Harvey Fierstein et les paroles et musique de Jerry Herman. Elle est adaptée de la pièce de théâtre française La Cage aux folles, écrite par Jean Poiret.

Today we have a very special guest. From the stages of off-Broadway to the bright lights of Broadway, from his unmistakable voice to his performances in 30+ movies, Harvey Fierstein has spent a lifetime telling stories that matter. With four Tony Awards to his name—two for writing, two for acting—his work in Torch Song Trilogy, La Cage aux Folles, and Hairspray has redefined representation on stage. But beyond the accolades, there's the man: a Brooklyn-born artist whose journey has been shaped by family, resilience, and an unyielding belief in telling the truth. Harvey also has a deep love for sewing and costume design. Before becoming famous Fierstein studied art at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York and worked as a costume designer in the off-off-Broadway world. He has spoken about his passion for sewing in interviews, reminiscing about how he used to design and create costumes for drag performers and theater productions which helped shape his deep understanding of theatrical presentation and character development. His early work in costume design was part of his immersion in the vibrant New York theater community of the 1970s, where he collaborated with experimental and LGBTQ+ artists.Even as his career in theater took off with Torch Song Trilogy and Hairspray, sewing remained a part of his life. He has mentioned that working with fabric and creating garments is a meditative and creative outlet for him. His appreciation for costume design also extends to his theatrical work, where he often acknowledges the impact of great costume designers in bringing characters to life.So today we go beyond the footlights to explore the moments that made him—his early days, the influence of his parents, why Ridgefield, Connecticut became his adopted hometown and, why sewing has been an anchoring thread in his life. (2:15) We welcome the inimitable Harvey Fierstein! He shares how he first picked up sewing—starting with an industrial machine in his father's handkerchief factory—before setting his sights on becoming a Disney animator. But, things changed for him and as Harvey puts it, “Life only changes when you're brave enough to say yes.”(5:27) A deep dive into Harvey's quilting journey, from discovering HGTV and Alex Anderson to creating story-driven quilts today. His first quilt? Alex Anderson's Strips that Sizzle!(9:25) Growing up in a conservative Jewish household, Harvey learned the power of storytelling from his family. Education, art, music, and Broadway were all part of his upbringing, shaping the creative force he became.(11:45) Family isn't just who you're born to—it's also who you find. Harvey talks about his “found family” in the theatre, the people who call him “mama” and “papa,” and what it means to always be true to yourself.(13:32) Ever wonder what a Harvey Fierstein Stitch & Bitch session looks like? He spills all about his quilting experiments and creative process.(16:03) From bold colors to playful designs, Harvey shares his favorite fabrics and how he keeps things fresh alternating between challenging and just plain silly projects.(20:15) Picking a favorite quilt is like picking a favorite child—but Harvey gives it a shot!(23:20) The costumes that left a mark: Harvey reflects on the magic of theatrical costumes, the collaborative art of design, and why theatre itself is an act of faith.(27:07) Favorite roles—on stage, in film, and yes, even Death to Smoochy!(30:30) Writing his memoir I Was Better Last Night was a journey in itself. Harvey shares what inspired him to put his life on paper.(31:20) When did he finally feel accepted? And what really led him to move Torch Song Trilogy to Broadway? It's not the story you think!(32:31) A mother always knows! The moment Harvey's mom saw her own earrings on him during Torch Song Trilogy—and her priceless reaction.(34:00) What's the secret to his success? According to Harvey, it's all about taking that unexpected fork in the road.(38:38) The quilting class that changed everything: What Harvey learned from Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably and Liza Lucy.(39:10) Quilting vs. theatre—two creative worlds, two very different communities. Harvey compares the two.(40:54) The key to keeping every performance fresh? Harvey reveals how he does it.(43:06) Why Bridgefield, CT has been home for 40 years—and how Harvey's house reflects is unique perspective on life and art.(46:00) “As much as it hurts, tell the truth.” Harvey explains how this philosophy, shaped by his father, has guided his life and career.(47:25) What's next—what's left on Harvey's bucket list?(52:18) Want to connect with Harvey? Find him on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe & Listen: Don't miss future episodes! Follow Sew & So Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today's and all of our Guests.

Dan Partridge is starring as Charlie Price in the new touring production of Kinky Boots.Written by Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein, Kinky Boots opened on Broadway in 2013 before transferring to London in 2015. This new production is directed by Curve's Artistic Director Nikolai Foster with choreography by Leah Hill and set and costume design by Robert Jones.Dan's theatre credits include: Pepper in Mamma Mia! (West End), Link in Hairspray (UK Tour), Rum Tum Tugger in Cats (Europe & South Korea Tours) and most recently he originated the role of Ben in the world premiere of Here And Now: The Steps Musical (The Alexandra, Birmingham). Dan had an extensive run starring as Danny Zuko in Grease on tour and in the West End at the Dominion Theatre. He has also worked on screen and done multiple workshops. In this episode Dan disusses the demands of playing Charlie, developing his stage relationship with Johannes Radebe and what it's been like to create a new version of Kinky Boots. Dan also reflects on his career so far... and lots more pops up along the way. Kinky Boots tours until July 2025. Visit www.kinkybootstour.com for info, tour dates and tickets. This podcast is hosted by Andrew Tomlins @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: andrew@westendframe.co.uk Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dylan and Connor are joined by Tony Award-winner Marissa Jaret Winokur (Hairspray, Celebrity Big Brother). You can't stop the beat, nor the DRAMA! Marissa is currently reuniting with her fellow Hairspray leading ladies Kerry Butler and friend of the pod Laura Bell Bundy for Mama I'm a Big Girl Now, which is her first time back on a New York stage since performing as Tracy Turnblad. We gag over this heartwarming and hilarious show, dreams to take it on the road, and Matthew Morrison's recent cameo in it. Marissa reveals how many times she's seen the Wicked movie, diving into her close relationship with the three Grande divas: Joan, Frankie, and Ariana. She gushes over seeing Patti LuPone in Evita at a formative time, and even spills on what Harvey Fierstein whispered to her the moment she won the 2003 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. We go behind the scenes on Celebrity Big Brother (Ross Mathews! Omarosa Manigault Newman!), Dancing with the Stars, and motherhood in Hollywood. Marissa is a beacon of light, wisdom, positivity, and JOY! We've loved her forever, and you will too. Don't miss Mama I'm a Big Girl Now through December 21st!Follow Marissa on InstagramSee Mama I'm a Big Girl Now at New World Stages!Follow DRAMA. on Twitter & Instagram & TiktokFollow Connor MacDowell on Twitter & InstagramFollow Dylan MacDowell on Twitter & InstagramSubscribe to our show on iHeartRadio Broadway!Support the podcast by subscribing to DRAMA+, which also includes bonus episodes, Instagram Close Friends content, and more!

Learn more at TheCityLife.org --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/citylifeorg/support

Learn more at TheCityLife.org --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/citylifeorg/support

We know, we know, this is not a kid's movie, and it breaks our "no post-9/11" rule, but some of us saw this movie at too young an age. It stars Edward Norton, who plays Smoochy, a lovable kid's show host, as he is thrust into the seedy underbelly full of the crime and unsavory characters. Also starring Robin Williams, Danny DeVito (who also directed), Jon Stewart, Catherine Keener, and Harvey Fierstein. Throwbacktheaterpodcast@gmail.com

“Simpson and Delilah” (October 18, 1990) Not only the earliest gay-themed Simpsons episode we've ever done, this one is also the first gay-themed episode The Simpsons ever did. And while the enigmatic Karl doesn't get to be explicitly gay, we argue whether having a gay-coded character might have been the show's way to — in its second season and at the height of Simpsons mania — signal to grown-ups that no, despite the t-shirts, this was not a show for kids and it could operate at a higher level. But how many adults watching TV in 1990 knew who Harvey Fierstein was? Remember when I did a supercut of all the LGBTQ jokes on The Simpsons? It still lives, even if you have to go to YouTube to watch it now for stupid homophobic reasons. It has 3.7 million views so far! I just think that's neat! Also listen to the most recent Talking Simpsons take on this episode here.

In this episode, artistic director, producer, director, and podcast host Robert W. Schneider discusses queer characters in musical theater as part of his upcoming book. We also talk about the song "I Am What I Am" from Jerry Herman and a book by Harvey Fierstein's 1983 musical La Cage aux Folles. You can write to scenetosong@gmail.com with a comment or question about an episode or about musical theater, or if you'd like to be a podcast guest. Follow on Instagram at @ScenetoSong, on X/Twitter at @SceneSong, and on Facebook at “Scene to Song with Shoshana Greenberg Podcast.” And be sure to sign up for the new monthly e-newsletter at scenetosong.substack.com. Contribute to the Patreon. The theme music is by Julia Meinwald. Music played in this episode: "Giving it Up for Love" from Boy Meets Boy "I am what I am" from La Cage aux Folles

WELCOME TO EPISODE 13 OF THE GOLDEN GIRLS DEEP DIVE PODCAST! Starting from the beginning of the show, each week we recap an episode of The Golden Girls and we end each episode with a fully researched deep dive into something from the Golden Girls universe! Rose has a new love interest and his name is Dr. Jonathan Newman. She's been out with him six times in the last three weeks and Blanche and Dorothy are dying to meet him. Shenanigans ensue when Blanche invites Dr. Newman to the house for dinner without asking Rose if it's okay. When Dr. Newman arrives, he's… not exactly what Blanche and Dorothy were expecting. For this week's deep dive Patrick is telling us all about the groundbreaking play Torch Song Trilogy by Harvey Fierstein. He goes deep on the surprising story of how the show came to be, how it was a major cultural force in changing the perception of gay people, and how the casting of Estelle Getty led to her landing the role of Sophia Petrillo on The Golden Girls. Our episodes are researched by Jess McKillop, Patrick Hinds, and Jennifer Simard. Visit our website for a full list of sources. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @GoldenGirlsDeepDive To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam and Dylan are back to break down the arrest of Pavel Durov, fake dinosaurs, the Pentaverate, Harvey Fierstein, Sam Smith's ambitions in fishing and more. Tickets to see Sam at samtripoli.com Follow Dylan here - https://www.instagram.com/dylanpetewrenn/ Go to MagicMind.com/DeepWaters and use promo code DEEP WATERS PATREON IS HERE! Subscribe at Patreon.com/AkaDeepWaters for uncensored episodes and one EXTRA EPISODE every week! DM your conspiracy videos to @akadeepwaters on Instagram - https://instagram.com/akadeepwaters?i... Check out BAD TV - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

In their first video podcast (available on their YouTube channel @QueerCinemaCatchup), Joe and Allison break down the commercial-flop-turned-cult-classic Connie and Carla written by Nia Vardalos of My Big Fat Greek Wedding fame (who stars in the film alongside the Oscar-nominated Toni Colette). Hear all about Allison and Joe's relationship (or lack thereof) to drag (5:09); Vardalos's long and surprising career (11:59); how sexism may have played a role in Allison's preconceptions about said career (26:58); the exploration of homophobia in this progressive-for-the-time film (36:30); the disappointing critical response to the film that persists to this day (42:33); and how a TikTok clip of Harvey Fierstein speaking with Barbara Walters made Joe and Allison feel inspired and grateful for artists like Nia who are brave enough to create stories that push the culture forward (1:00). https://www.tiktok.com/@_dofd/video/7393327709595766059 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The team is making history! They're watching the first Robin Williams film of this podcast, and why not start with the greatest one of all time? Mrs. Doubtfire! Yes they've already done one film with him in it, but this marks the first Robin Williams film he stars in as the main protagonist. Mrs. Doubtfire is a 1993 American comedy drama film directed by Chris Columbus and written by Randi Mayem Singer and Leslie Dixon, based on the 1987 novel, Madame Doubtfire, by Anne Fine. Robin Williams, who also served as a producer, stars with Sally Field, Pierce Brosnan, Harvey Fierstein, and Robert Prosky. It follows a recently divorced voice actor who disguises himself as an elderly female housekeeper to be able to interact with his 3 children. The film addresses themes of divorce and the effects it has on a family.

“Oh... as I hold this cold meat, I'm reminded of Winston. God rest his soul.” We watched “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993) with MTMUG All Star Joshua Clement and we don't do laundry, we don't do windows and we DON'T do diapers. Listen, it's been 30 years since this family comedy was released and our ideas about gender identity and expression have come a long way. That being said, we firmly believe Robin Williams did not have a malicious bone in his body or thought in his heart when he committed Euphegenia Doubtfire to film. The queer sensibilities are rife throughout Daniel Hillard's (Williams) journey to become the matronly Mrs. Doubtfire in order to spend more time with his kids. From his gay brother Frank, played by icon Harvey Fierstein, to Robin's manic (and still hilarious) performance channeling Mrs. Doubtfire. As time goes by, we are finding ourselves understanding Miranda (Sally Field) a bit more - that pony was INSIDE the house! Don't get us started on Pierce Brosnan serving up body in the pool scene - we'll be rewinding that one, thank you very much.  We also love (and grew up with) the Hillard children played by Lisa Jakub, Matthew Lawrence and little bitty Mara Wilson.  This cast is perfect, the jokes still hold up and Robin, as always, serves up a master class in comedy.  Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe, rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! www.patreon.com/moviesthatmadeusgay Facebook/Instagram: @moviesthatmadeusgay Twitter: @MTMUGPod Scott Youngbauer: Twitter @oscarscott / Instagram @scottyoungballer Peter Lozano: Twitter/Instagram @peterlasagna

Welcome back to Not A Bomb! This is the podcast where we dive into some of cinema's biggest box office failures and explore whether they deserve a second chance.Sword and Sandals month “swings” back into Robert E Howard-town with 1997's Kull the Conqueror. Originally intended to be the third Conan film, Kull trades Arnold Schwarzenegger for Kevin Sorbo. Yeah, downgrade there. Also, somehow this film cost $35 Million and has some of the most fart rockiest, fart rock to ever fart rock. All that being said, is Kull the Conqueror worth a rewatch? Should Kevin Sorbo change his name to Kevin Snorebo? Would Fabio make a better Kull? Can the lovely and talented Tia Carrere save this thing? Listen and find out!Kull the Conqueror is director by John Nicolella and stars Kevin Sorbi, Tia Carrere, Thomas Ian Griffith, Litefoot, Harvey Fierstein, and Karina LombardNot A Bomb just launched new designs in our Merch store! Head over to the Not A Bomb Tee Public store and check them out. Special thanks to Ted Blair for the amazing designs!We value your feedback and suggestions. If you have a cinematic flop you'd like us to discuss, please reach out to us at NotABombPod@gmail.com or through our contact page. Your reviews and feedback are what keep us going. If you enjoy our content, consider leaving a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.Cast: Brad, Troy

Buy Harvey's memwah I Was Better Last NightPlease follow us on Instagram: Memwah PodcastsVisit us at Pronounced MemwahMusic: "Promenade" themeBuy Wendi's books!I'm Wearing Tunics Now*Ginger Mancino, Kid Comedian*Socks*Buy Ann's book!Listen to Your Mother*If you would like to get in touch with us, to recommend a memwah for us to read, to give us feedback or to declare undying love (non-creepy only, please!), email us at memwahpodcast@gmail.comIf you enjoy this podcast- and know what's good for you, please rate us ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! And give us a shout out on social media and maybe do some skywriting to tell others about the podcast!Merci!Affiliate link. If you click and buy the book, we may get some money- and maybe a pony! But the price you pay will be the same.

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) is as good an action movie as has been made.  Charlize Theron is a large part of that.  So, we get Anya Taylor-Joy as young Furiosa in a prequel film to Mad Max: Fury Road in Furisa: A Mad Max Saga.  ...And it's very good, probably even great.   0:10:45 - Box Office and upcoming releases. 0:17:45 *** What's Streaming  *** AMAZON INDEPENDENCE DAY, Dir. Roland Emmerich – Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch, Robert Loggia, Randy Quaid, James Rebhorn, Harvey Fierstein, Adam Baldwin, Brent Spiner, Vivica A Fox, Harry Connick Jr. Mae Whitman, 1996. FLIGHT OF THE NAVIGATOR, Dir. Randal Kleiser - Paul Reubens, Cliff de Young, Veronica Cartwright, Sarah Jessica Parker, 1986. 0:22:00 - Trailers:  LATE BLOOMERS – Karen Gillan, Feature. REVERSE THE CURSE – Logan-Marshall Green, David Duchovny, Feature. TRIGGER WARNING – Jessica Alba, Feature.   0:28:14 - FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA, Dir. George Miller  ( Grayson 8 / Roger 8 )   Hosted, produced and mixed by Grayson Maxwell and Roger Stillion.  Also hosted by Christopher Boughan.  Music by Chad Wall. Quality Assurance by Anthony Emmett. Visit the new Youtube channel, "For the Love of Cinema" to follow and support our short video discussions.  Please give a like and subscribe if you enjoy it.   Follow the show on Twitter @lovecinemapod and check out the Facebook page for updates.  Rate, subscribe and leave a comment or two.  Every Little bit helps.  Send us an email to fortheloveofcinemapodcast@gmail.com

Finish your chess match then listen this month as Austin and Big T talk about the 1996 sci-fi action film, Independence Day. Join us as we discuss some of our favorite scenes  and the most ridiculous parts of the film. We also talk about the financial success of this movie as well as ask ourselves, “What is the central message of this film?”So grab your headset and tune in, then join us next month when we discuss the 2020 drama comedy Minari. Write into us at layersoffilmpod@gmail.comFollow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @layersoffilmpod

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    Aya de Leon, the Interim Program Director of the Tenth Annual Bay Area Book Festival, June 1-2 in various locations in Berkeley, talks about this year's festival with host Richard Wolinsky. Aya de Leon is the Poet Laureate of the City of Berkeley. She is a novelist and poet who currently teaches creative writing at U.C. Berkeley. She is the author of ten books, the most recent of which are the adult novel, “That Dangerous Energy,” and the young adult novel, “Untraceable.” Originally a hip hop artist, Aya de Leon is also a noted local activist, and the acquiring editor of Fighting Chance Books, the climate justice fiction imprint of She Writes Press. She organizes with the Black Hive, the climate and environmental justice formation of the Movement for Black Lives. Complete Interview.     Paul Auster (1947-2024), in conversation with host Richard Wolinsky, recorded October 2, 2002 while on tour for his novel “The Book of Illusions.” Paul Auster, who died on April 30th, 2024 was a world-renowned novelist, memoirist, and film-maker whose works were translated into forty languages. His career as a writer began with a well-received memoir, The invention of Solitude in 1982, and took off in 1987 with the publication of three connected novellas titled The New York Trilogy. His fame and success grew over the following years. He moved into film-making with the screenplays for two movies directed by Wayne Wang, Smoke and Blue in the Face, and then wrote and directed his own film, Lulu on the Bridge. There are three Paul Auster interviews in the archives. In this first interview, he discusses his film work, goes into depth about both The Book of Illusions and his previous novel, Timbuktu, much of the interview centersd on Lulu on the Bridge and the two Wayne Wang collaborations. The second interview was conducted in  2008 for Man in the Dark, and finally in 2017 for his masterpiece, 4 3 2 1. Currently, all three films, the two with Wayne Wang and Lulu on the Bridge, can be rented via Amazon. From time to time, all three show up on the Criterion app. Complete 48-minute Interview.   Review of “The Glass Menagerie” at San Francisco Playhouse through June 15, 2024. Review of “Galileo, A Rock Musical” at Berkeley Rep Roda Theatre through June 23, 2024.   Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  10th Annual Festival: June 1-2, guests include Joan Baez, Naomi Klein, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Jonathan Lethem. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  Upcoming readings to be announced. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  The Lehman Trilogy by Stefano Massini . Adapted by Ben Power, directed by Sam Mandes, May 25-June 23, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  The Lifespan of a Fact by Jeremy Kareken & David Murrell and Gordon Farrell, June 21-July 21. Streaming:  July 16-21. Awesome Theatre Company. Por La Noche (By Night), October 11 – 26, 2924. See website for information. Berkeley Rep Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, extended to June 23, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. See website for upcoming shows. Boxcar Theatre. The Speakeasy. Must close June 29, 2024 Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Company, June 5-29, Orpheum. Mrs. Doubtfire, July 2-28. Girl from the North Country, July 30-Aug 18, Golden Gate. See website for events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. La Boheme June 21 – July 5. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: Sesame Street Live, Say Hello, June 7-8; The Cher Show, June 19-23. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. 42nd Street Moon. Bright Star postponed. Golden Thread  Conversations with Artists via Zoom and Howlround TV, through June 13, 2024. Hillbarn Theatre: Always…Patsy Cline, August 22 – September 15. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. Magic Theatre. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) tick..tick..BOOM by Jonathan Larson, through June 16, 2024. Ride the Cyclone by Jacob Richmond & Brooke Maxwell, September 20 – October 20. Oakland Theater Project.  Ghost of King Created by and featuring Michael Wayne Turner III June 6-23, 2024. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. Pear Slices, new works through June 2. Presidio Theatre. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, May 2 – June 15. SFBATCO I, Too, Sing America, Grace Cathedral, June 13-15. See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. San Jose Stage Company: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.  June 5 – 30. Shotgun Players.  Best Available by Jonathan Spector. May 18 – June 16. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  All's Well That Ends Well by William Shakespeare, May 23 – June 2. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Being Alive: A Sondheim Celebration June 5-20, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts.. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – May 30, 2024: Aya de Leon – Paul Auster appeared first on KPFA.

Velkommen, bienvenue! Welcome to the Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club! That's right, we are bring the Kit Kat Club to you as we talk to the cast, creatives, and Broadway's biggest celebrities ahead of the opening night. Hear the behind the scenes inside scoop to a show like never before. From what it was like to bring a production from the UK to the US, reviving an iconic show in such an innovative way, completely redesigning a Broadway theatre and what it's been like to perform in the round, and so much more. Hear from stars such as Eddie Redmayne, Ato Blankson-Wood, Henry Gottfried, Marty Lauter (Marcia, Marcia, Marcia), BERNADETTE PETERS, Harvey Fierstein, Julie Benko, Julia Lester, Tom Francis, Dylan Mulvaney and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    Joan Baez, legendary singer, songwriter and activist, in conversation with host Richard Wolinsky, recorded while on remote tour for her book of poetry, “When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance.” Recorded April 26, 2024 via zencastr. Joan Baez is an internationally renowned singer, songwriter and activist who burst on the folk music scene as a teenager in the late 1950s. She has two autobiographies, Daybreak, along with And A Voice to Sing With. There are over thirty albums, including her now classic “Diamonds and Rust” from 1975, she has appeared in numerous documentaries about music and activism, won the 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys, and is the subject of a recent documentary, Joan Baez, I Am A Noise, which is on Hulu and can be rented on several apps. Photos courtesy Joan Baez. Complete Interview.   Ty Burr, former film critic for the Boston Globe, in conversation with host Richard Wolinsky discussing his book Gods Like Us: On Movie Stardom and Modern Fame, recorded in the KPFA studio, November 2012. Ty Burr was film critic for the Boston Globe from 2002 to 2021, and he writes a popular culture newsletter,  Ty Burr's Watchlist. formerly on Substack. In the interview he discusses the origins of Hollywood stardom, the nature of “branding,” and ideas about fame and why people want to be famous.   Review of A Strange Loop at ACT Toni Rembe Theatre through May 12, 2024. Review of Blue Door at Aurora Theatre Company through May 19, 2024.   Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Family Day, May 4th, events around Berkeley. 2025 Festival: June 1-2, guests include Joan Baez, Naomi Klein, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Jonathan Lethem. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Por La Noche (By Night), October 11 – 26, 2924. See website for information. Berkeley Rep Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. Cymbeline by William Shakespeare, May 10-26, Live Oak Theater. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Funny Girl, April 30 – May 26, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. La Boheme June 21 – July 5. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. Karaoke for a Cause, with Lauren Gunderson. May 13, 6 pm. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. The Giver, adapted by Eric Coble from the Newbery Award-winning book by Lois Lowry, April 26 – May 5. Oakland Theater Project.  Red, Red, Red by Amilio Garcia, conceived by Lisa Ramirez, World Premiere, April 26 – May 19. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, May 2 – June 15. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. San Jose Stage Company: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.  June 5 – 30. Shotgun Players.  Best Available by Jonathan Spector. May 18 – June 16. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  All's Well That Ends Well by William Shakespeare, May 23 – June 2. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Being Alive: A Sondheim Celebration June 5-20, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts.. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – May 2, 2024: Joan Baez – Ty Burr appeared first on KPFA.

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    Trina Robbins (1938-2024) who died following a stroke on April 10, 2024, in conversation with host Richard Wolinsky, recorded at her home in San Francisco on February 6, 2018. Trina Robbins was a legend in comic book circles, an artist at a time when hardly any women drew comics. In this interview, she discusses her 2017 memoir, “Last Girl Standing,” which deals with her life as an artist, author, and clothing designer. She was the first woman to edit a comic book created by women, “It Ain't Me Babe,” the first woman to draw “Wonder Woman,” and the single most influential historian chronicling the women who created comics and cartoons. In this interview, she also talks about her other recent books including a history of women drawing comics during World War II, a graphic novel version of a short story collection originally written by her father in Yiddish, and a graphic novel based on a work by British author Sax Rohmer. Trina Robbins was clothing designer for Los Angeles rock and roll bands in the 1960s and for the Warhol factory in New York. She also was a regular contributor to “Wimmens Comix,” a series of comic books created by women from the 1970s through 1990s. Photo: Richard Wolinsky. Complete Interview.   Robert MacNeil (1931-2024), who died at the age of 93 on April 12, 2003, in conversation with Richard Wolinsky, recorded in the KPFA studios while on tour for the memoir, Looking for My Country. Robert MacNeil spent several years as a correspondent and news anchor for NBC, the BBC, and PBS before becoming the co-host of the PBS evening news show, originally the Robert MacNeil Report, and later the MacNeil/Lehrer News Hour from 1975 to 1995. Since that time, he wrote novels and plays as well as continuing to work in television. In this interview he talks about his feelings about the United States from the vantage point of being born in Canada as well as his views on meeting various American presidents. Robert MacNeil Wikipedia page.   Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Family Day, May 4th, events around Berkeley. 2025 Festival: June 1-2, guests include Joan Baez, Naomi Klein, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Jonathan Lethem. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. See website for upcoming schedule. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Funny Girl, April 30 – May 26, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Riding the Currents of the Wilding Wind by Martha Gonzalez and Virginia Grise, April 18-21. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. The Giver, adapted by Eric Coble from the Newbery Award-winning book by Lois Lowry, April 26 – May 5. Oakland Theater Project.  Red, Red, Red by Amilio Garcia, conceived by Lisa Ramirez, World Premiere, April 26 – May 19. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, May 2 – June 15. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 27. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Tiger Style by Mike Lew, April 6-28, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts.. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – April 25, 2024: Trina Robbins – Robert MacNeil appeared first on KPFA.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway star Elena Shaddow. Elena will be appearing in my next concert at 54 Below, Backstage Babble Celebrates Joe Allen Restaurant, singing from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, along with a fantastic lineup including Tony nominees Anita Gillette, Michael Korie, Amanda Green, and Willy Falk, plus Jim Walton, Robert Creighton, Heather MacRae, and more. The link to in-person and livestream tickets is here: https://54below.org/events/backstage-babble-celebrates-joe-allen-restaurant/ Tune in today to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including why she smoked a cigarette in NINE, the difficulty of performing in DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES every night, the insight she got from Chita Rivera, working with Joanne Akalaitis on THE BACCHAE, getting close to the title role in MARY POPPINS, Trevor Nunn's specific way of working, working with Audra McDonald on TV, how she decided to stop understudying, telling Harvey Fierstein she was pregnant, the joys of starring in FANNY, going on at the last minute in NINE, the freeing nature of finding her own technique, and so much more. You won't want to miss this episode.

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    Don Winslow, author of “City in Ruins,” in conversation with Richard Wolinsky, recorded via zencastr on April 10, 2024 Don Winslow is the author of 22 novels, many of which focus on crime and the criminal underworld, including The Cartel, The Force, Savages (which became an Oliver Stone film), and The Border. His latest novel,  “City in Ruins”, concludes the trilogy of “City on Fire” and “City of Dreams,” which told of a mob war using as a template the story of the Trojan War, The Iliad, the Odyssey, the Aeneid and other works. In this latest novel, we follow the character of Danny Ryan, (Aeneas) as he winds up in Las Vegas (the founding of Rome), with forays into the Odyssey and the greek tragedies of Aeschylus and Europides.  Don Winslow has stated that these will be his final novels. Don Winslow also produces political videos aimed at saving the American democracy from Donald Trump, and is a vital force on Twitter. Photos: Richard Wolinsky. Complete Interview.   A conversation with Viet Thanh Nguyen, winner of the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for fiction for his novel, The Sympathizer, which has now been adapted into a television miniseries. The interview was recorded in the KPFA studios, May 5, 2016. Hosted by Richard Wolinsky Viet Thanh Nguyen came over from Vietnam with his family at the time of the fall of Saigon. The Sympathizer is the story of a Communist exile in America following the end of the Vietnam War, both a spy and in some respects, a lover of American culture. An Associate Professor at the University of Southern California, Viet Thanh Nguyen is the author of two non-fiction books, Race and Resistance: Literature and Politics in Asian America and Nothing Ever Dies: Vietnam and the Memory of War, a non-fiction bookend to his novel. A sequel to The Sympathizer, The Committed, was published in 2021. Complete 40-minute interview.   Review of “Tiger Style!” at TheatreWorks Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts through April 28, 2024. Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Family Day, May 4th, events around Berkeley. 2025 Festival: June 1-2, guests include Joan Baez, Naomi Klein, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Jonathan Lethem. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. See website for upcoming schedule. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Haispray, April 16-21, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Riding the Currents of the Wilding Wind by Martha Gonzalez and Virginia Grise, April 18-21. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. Oakland Theater Project.  Red, Red, Red by Amilio Garcia, conceived by Lisa Ramirez, World Premiere, April 26 – May 19.h Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The 39 Steps, March 7 – April 20. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. Sign My Name to Freedom: The Unheard Songs of Betty Reid Soskin, March 29 – April 13. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 14. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Pride of Lions, by Roger Q. Mason, March 28 – April 21. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Tiger Style by Mike Lew, April 6-28, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts.. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – April 18, 2024: Don Winslow – Viet Thanh Nguyen appeared first on KPFA.

Another queer-themed episode of Simpsons means we again called upon two experts, Drew Mackie and Glen Lakin from the excellent Gayest Episode Ever Podcast! After Homer gets mad at Marge for reasons he thinks are defensible (they aren't), he moves in with two gay characters who both become key parts of Springfield. We deconstruct this 2003 approach to gay sitcom characters and their legacy (that Drew & Glen are connected to. Plus we detail how Harvey Fierstein wasn't in this while Weird Al was, with tons more trivia in this week's queer podcast! Support this podcast and get over 150 bonus episodes by visiting Patreon.com/TalkingSimpsons and becoming a patron! And please follow the official Twitter, @TalkSimpsonsPod!

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    Margot Livesey, author of the novel, “The Road from Belhaven,” in conversation with Richard Wolinsky. Recorded March 19, 2024 at Book Passage Bookstore in Corte Madera, California. Margot Livesey is the author of ten novels, including “The Missing World,” “Mercury” and “The Boy in the Field,” which range from literary novels to psychological thrillers. Born and raised in Scotland. she currently teaches at the Iowa Writers Workshop. “The Road from Belhaven” is set in the late 1800s in rural Scotland and Glasgow, and concerns a young woman artist with second sight who finds herself in difficult circumstances. It's based on stories of Margot Livesey's great grandmother as told by her grandmother and relatives in Australia. Special thanks to Elaine Petrocelli and the folks at Book Passage Bookstore. Photo: Richard Wolinsky. Complete Interview.   Review of “Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord” at ACT Strand Theatre through May 5, 2024. Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Event calendar and links to previous events. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. Dine Nishli (i am a sacred being) or A Boarding School Play by Blossom Johnson, April 11-13. See website for time and location. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep The Far Country by Lloyd Suh, March 8 – April 14, Peets Theatre. Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. See website for upcoming schedule. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Haispray, April 16-21, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Boss McGreedy, written and directed by Gary Graves, extended to April 7. Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Riding the Currents of the Wilding Wind by Martha Gonzalez and Virginia Grise, April 18-21. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. Oakland Theater Project.  Red, Red, Red by Amilio Garcia, conceived by Lisa Ramirez, World Premiere, April 26 – May 19.h Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The 39 Steps, March 7 – April 20. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. Sign My Name to Freedom: The Unheard Songs of Betty Reid Soskin, March 29 – April 13. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 14. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Pride of Lions, by Roger Q. Mason, March 28 – April 21. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Tiger Style by Mike Lew, April 6-28, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts.. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – April 11, 2024: Margot Livesey, “The Road from Belhaven” appeared first on KPFA.

After the interval, Jonny hears how Matthew Broderick was pulled out of depression by a play from an unknown writer called Harvey Fierstein; doing things his own way as a young actor; the incredible story of the day his life changed forever- and the sadness underneath it; the last conversation he ever had with his father and how his dad's example revisits him onstage; why he can drive directors mad; why Nathan Lane thinks he's like the Warner Bros frog; the pressure to be funny; his love for Neil Simon and the failure that seems to always await the giants of American theatre; the rollercoaster of a life in American theatre and getting together with Robert de Niro to fight Donald Trump. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    Rebecca Makkai, whose latest novel is “I Have Some Questions for You,” just released in trade paperback, in conversation with host Richard Wolinsky. Rebecca Makkai is the author of three earlier novels, The Great Believers, The Hundred Year House and The Borrowers, and one collection of stories, Music for Wartime. This latest novel is a mystery of sorts that takes place in a New England boarding school and involves a murder that took place twenty years earlier, a murder in which an athletic coach was arrested and convicted, but likely isn't the guilty party. In this fast-paced book, Rebecca Makkai takes on the #MeToo movement, misogyny in high school, true crime podcasts, and hidden abuse. The interview was recorded on March 2, 2023 at Green Apple Books on the Park in San Francisco. Photos: Richard Wolinsky. Complete Interview.   ​​ Otessa Moshfegh, recorded while on tour for the acclaimed short story collection, “Homesick for Another World, in the KPFA studios on February 2, 2017. Hosted by Richard Wolinsky. First posted March 28, 2017. The author of the highly acclaimed novel, short-listed for the 2016 Man Booker Prize, “Eileen,” Otessa Moshfegh is the daughter of an Iranian father and Croatian mother, both forced out of Iran following the 1979 revolution. Her stories are filled with dark humor, focusing on how we feel about our bodies and our lives in this physical universe. Her vision is very idiosyncratic. She is currently the author of four novels, most recently Death in her Hands in 2020 and Lapvona in 2022. Otessa Moshfegh is also listed as co-writer for the 2022 film “Causeway,” which is now streaming via an Apple+ subscription. Complete Interview Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Event calendar and links to previous events. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep The Far Country by Lloyd Suh, March 8 – April 14, Peets Theatre. Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. See website for upcoming schedule. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Haispray, April 16-21, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: The Great Leap by Lauren Yee. March 16 – April 7. Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Boss McGreedy, written and directed by Gary Graves, extended to April 7. Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: once,  March 21 – April 7. Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Riding the Currents of the Wilding Wind by Martha Gonzalez and Virginia Grise, April 18-21. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. Oakland Theater Project.  Dan Hoyle's “Takes All Kinds”, April 6-7, workshop performances. Red, Red, Red by Amilio Garcia, conceived by Lisa Ramirez, World Premiere, April 26 – May 19.h Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. SFArtsED Players' The Little Mermaid April 5-7. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The 39 Steps, March 7 – April 20. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. Sign My Name to Freedom: The Unheard Songs of Betty Reid Soskin, March 29 – April 13. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 14. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Pride of Lions, by Roger Q. Mason, March 28 – April 21. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Tiger Style by Mike Lew, April 6-28, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts.. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – April 4, 2024: Rebecca Makkai – Otessa Moshfegh appeared first on KPFA.

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    The Films of Agnes Varda Susan Oxtoby and Agnes Varda in Berkeley, November 2013. Photo: Mariana Lopez courtesy BAMPFA. Susan Oxtoby, Director of Film and Senior Film Curator at Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA), discusses the current retrospective of the films of the great Belgian-French film maker Agnes Varda (1928-2019) with host Richard Wolinsky. Agnes Varda began her career as a stills photographer and became a director with La Point Courte (1954), having seen very few films in her life. She went on to international fame with Cleo from 5 to 7 and Vagabond, but her late life films The Beaches of Agnes and Faces, Places established her as one of the most important directors of the modern era. All the films discussed in this interview (except the new documentary Viva Varda!) are available to stream on the Criterion app, save for Faces, Places, which can be streamed on Kanopy. Cleo from 5 to 7 can also be streamed on Max.   ​​​​​Burton Lane, Broadway and Hollywood composer and sometime lyricist, in conversation with Richard Wolinsky, April 1992 in New York, second of two parts. Burton Lane, who died at the age of 84 in 1997, was best known for composing the scores for the hit Broadway shows Finian's Rainbow (with E.Y. (Yip) Harburg) and On A Clear Day You Can See Forever (with Alan J. Lerner). As a teenager, he was considered a protégé of George Gershwin, and was close to the Gershwin family until he moved to Los Angeles to compose songs for a variety of different musicals, including the Fred Astaire film, Royal Wedding . His other Broadway show, Carmelina, was produced in 1979. The Gershwin Project Interview I: English Strunsky, Ira Gershwin's brother-in-law and George's wingman in the 1920s. Interview II: Musicologist Deena Rosenberg and Michael Strunsky, Ira Gershwin's nephew. Interview III: Kitty Carlisle. Interview IV: Michael Feinstein. Interview V: Burton Lane   Review of “The 39 Steps” at San Francisco Playhouse through April 20, 2024.   Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Event calendar and links to previous events. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep The Far Country by Lloyd Suh, March 8 – April 14, Peets Theatre. Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. See website for upcoming schedule. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Haispray, April 16-21, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Peter Pan, June 25-30. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: The Great Leap by Lauren Yee. March 16 – April 7. Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Boss McGreedy, written and directed by Gary Graves, extended to April 7. Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  VOD: What Do Women Say? March 12 – 29. Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: once,  March 21 – April 7. Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Riding the Currents of the Wilding Wind by Martha Gonzalez and Virginia Grise, April 18-21. Garuda's Wing by Naomi Iizuka, June 5-23. Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC)  Unpacking in P'Town by Jewelle Gomez, March 1 – 31. The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. Oakland Theater Project.  Cost of Living by Martyna Majek, March 1-30, 2024. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. SFArtsED Players' The Little Mermaid April 5-7. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The 39 Steps, March 7 – April 20. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. Sign My Name to Freedom: The Unheard Songs of Betty Reid Soskin, March 29 – April 13. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 14. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Pride of Lions, by Roger Q. Mason, March 28 – April 21. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Queen by Madhuri Shekar, March 8 -31, Lucie Stern Theatre. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – March 28, 2024: The Films of Agnes Varda – Burton Lane Part Two appeared first on KPFA.

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    ​​​​​Burton Lane, Broadway and Hollywood composer and sometime lyricist, in conversation with Richard Wolinsky, April 1992 in New York. Burton Lane, who died at the age of 84 in 1997, was best known for composing the scores for the hit Broadway shows Finian's Rainbow (with E.Y. (Yip) Harburg) and On A Clear Day You Can See Forever (with Alan J. Lerner). As a teenager, he was considered a protégé of George Gershwin, and was close to the Gershwin family until he moved to Los Angeles to compose songs for a variety of different musicals, including the Fred Astaire film, Royal Wedding . His other Broadway show, Carmelina, was produced in 1979. In 1992, after creating a radio documentary about Leonard Bernstein, Richard Wolinsky embarked on another documentary on the life and music of George Gershwin, which started with a Morning Concert program featuring Ira Gershwin's nephew Michael Strunsky and Gershwin expert Deena Rosenberg. That was followed followed with interviews with Michael's father English Strunsky, with Ira Gershwin's archivist, later a noted cabaret performer, Michael Feinstein, and New York Grande Dame Kitty Carlisle, who dated George Gershwin in the 1930s. This interview as the fifth of seven interviews, after which for personal reasons, the project was abandoned. Special thanks to Ernie Harburg, son of Burton Lane's lyricist E.Y. Yip Harburg, and to Gershwin historian Deena Rosenberg Harburg for their assistance in setting up this, and the other interviews in the Gershwin Project. George Gershwin was born in 1898 and his brother Ira two years earlier. At the age of 15 he took a job as a song-plugger, playing other people's songs on a piano for Remick Music Publisher for the sale of their sheet music. His first composed song was published when he was 17, and at 21 he scored his first big hit, Swanee. But it wasn't until 1924 when he teamed up with his brother Ira as lyricist that George Gershwin became, what we might call a superstar, which he remained until his untimely death from a brain tumor in 1937. Ira Gershwin, who went on to work with other composers until he retired in the early 1960s, died in 1983. The Gershwin Project Interview I: English Strunsky, Ira Gershwin's brother-in-law and George's wingman in the 1920s. Interview II: Musicologist Deena Rosenberg and Michael Strunsky, Ira Gershwin's nephew. Interview III: Kitty Carlisle. Interview IV: Michael Feinstein.   Review of “The Far Country” at Berkeley Rep Peets Theatre through April 14, 2024.   Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Event calendar and links to previous events. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  The Last Days of Judas Iscariot by Steven Adly Guirgis, May 4, 7 pm, Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep The Far Country by Lloyd Suh, March 8 – April 14, Peets Theatre. Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. Cymbeline, adapted and directed by Stuart Bousel, May 10 – 26, Live Oak Theatre. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Haispray, April 16-21, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Mean Girls, March 19-24. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: The Great Leap by Lauren Yee. March 16 – April 7. Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Boss McGreedy, written and directed by Gary Graves, extended to April 7. Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. The Soul Never Dwells in a Dry Place by Rotimi Agbabiaka, March 22 – 24. 42nd Street Moon. Forever Plaid, April 18 – May 5, 2024. Golden Thread  VOD: What Do Women Say? March 12 – 29. Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: once,  March 21 – April 7. Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Dirty White Teslas Make Me Sad by Ashley Smiley, February 28 – March 24 (extended three performances). Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC)  Unpacking in P'Town by Jewelle Gomez, March 1 – 31. The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. Oakland Theater Project.  Cost of Living by Martyna Majek, March 1-30, 2024. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. See website for schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The 39 Steps, March 7 – April 20.. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. Sign My Name to Freedom: The Unheard Songs of Betty Reid Soskin, March 29 – April 13. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 14. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Pride of Lions, by Roger Q. Mason, March 28 – April 21. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Queen by Madhuri Shekar, March 8 -31, Lucie Stern Theatre. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – March 21, 2024: Burton Lane (1912-1997) appeared first on KPFA.

​Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues    David Thomson, film critic and historian, discusses his latest book, “The Fatal Alliance: A Century of War on Film” with host Richard Wolinsky. Author of over forty books, most of which deal with film and film history, David Thomson here discusses how movies have influenced how our society sees and understands war. He is hosting war films at Pacific Film Archive on March 13 (Paths of Glory), March 20 (They Shall Not Grow Old) and March 27 (1917). In the interview, he talks about how war films rarely focus on the reasons why individual wars are fought, the soldier mentality, the two World Wars on film, fascism and resistance on film, along with such films as Black Hawk Down, The Deer Hunter and A Man Escapes. Special thanks to AJ Fox and Susan Oxtoby of Pacific Film Archive, where the interview was recorded. Photo of David Thomson: Richard Wolinsky. Complete Interview.   Review of “Queen” at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley Lucie Stern Theatre through March 31, 2024.   Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and vaccination and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  Event calendar and links to previous events. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  See website for past streams. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. Alter Theatre. See website for upcoming productions. American Conservatory Theatre  Kristina Wong Sweatshop Overlord, March 30 – May 5, 2024, Strand Theater. A Strange Loop, April 18 – May 12, Toni Rembe Theater. Aurora Theatre  Blue Door by Tanya Barfield, April 19 – May 19. Streaming:  March 14-19. Awesome Theatre Company. Awesome High: A Sketch Comedy Play, directed by Nikki Menez,  April 12-27, Eclectic Box, 446 Valencia, SF. Berkeley Rep The Far Country by Lloyd Suh, March 8 – April 14, Peets Theatre. Galileo, World Premiere Musical, book by Danny Strong, with Raul Esparza, May 5 – June 10, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company. Cymbeline, adapted and directed by Stuart Bousel, May 10 – 26, Live Oak Theatre. Boxcar Theatre. See website for upcoming shows. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for current and upcoming productions. BroadwaySF: Haispray, April 16-21, Orpheum. See website for special events at the Orpheum, Curran and Golden Gate. Broadway San Jose:  Mean Girls, March 19-24. California Shakespeare Theatre (Cal Shakes). Terrapin Roadshow, June 1-2; As You Like it, September 12 – 29. Center Rep: The Great Leap by Lauren Yee. March 16 – April 7. Cabaret, May 26 – June 23, Lesher Center for the Arts. Central Works  Boss McGreedy, written and directed by Gary Graves, March 2 – 31. Accused by Patricia Milton, July 13 – August 11. Cinnabar Theatre. Shipwrecked! April 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco ongoing. Contra Costa Civic Theatre In Repertory: Hamlet and Rosencranz and Gildenstern Are Dead, September 7 – 22. Curran Theater: See website for upcoming one-night only live events, including the Unscripted series with various celebrities. Custom Made Theatre. In hibernation. Cutting Ball Theatre. The Soul Never Dwells in a Dry Place by Rotimi Agbabiaka March 22 – 24. 42nd Street Moon. Falsettos, February 29 – March 17, 2024. Golden Thread  VOD: What Do Women Say? March 12 – 29. Returning to Haifa by Ghassan Kanafani, April 12 – May 4, Potrero Stage. Hillbarn Theatre: once,  March 21 – April 7. Something Rotten, April 25 – May 12. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. (NO MORE) adjustments: A Black Queer Woman Evolves in Real Time, written and performed by Champagne Hughes, May 1-5, 2024. Fort Mason. Magic Theatre. Dirty White Teslas Make Me Sad by Ashley Smiley, February 28 – March 24 (extended three performances). Marin Theatre Company Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein, May 9 – June 2, 2024. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Upcoming Events Page. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC)  Unpacking in P'Town by Jewelle Gomez, March 1 – 31. The Tutor by Torange Yeghiazarian, April 5 – May 12. Oakland Theater Project.  Cost of Living by Martyna Majek, March 1-24, 2024. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Pear Theater. In Repertory: The Chinese Lady by Lloyd Suh; Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. April 19 – May 20. Presidio Theatre. See website for schedule of events and performances. Ray of Light: Everybody's Talking About Jamie, June 1 – 23, 2024. See website for Spotlight Cabaret Series at Feinstein's at the Nikko. San Francisco Playhouse. The 39 Steps, March 7 – April 20.. SFBATCO See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. Sign My Name to Freedom: The Unheard Songs of Betty Reid Soskin, March 29 – April 13. San Jose Stage Company: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Regional premiere. April 3 – 28. Shotgun Players.  A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. March 15 – April 14. Website also lists one night only events at the Ashby Stage. South Bay Musical Theatre: Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical, May 18 – June 8. Saratoga Civic Theater. Stagebridge: Shady Manor, a musical play by Prescott Cole. June 14-16. 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Rhino  Pride of Lions, by Roger Q. Mason, March 28 – April 21. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Queen by Madhuri Shekar, March 8 -31, Lucie Stern Theatre. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAM/PFA: On View calendar for BAM/PFA. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2023 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org The post David Thomson on How Films Influence Our View of War appeared first on KPFA.

In this last episode of our Robin Williams month, we talk about Mrs. Doubtfire, which just turned 30, and features a highly characteristic Williams performance full of energy, quickfire improvisation, and an excellent mix of humor and heart. We talk about our different reactions to this film as adults (noticing a lot more of the dirty jokes and sympathizing more with Miranda than Daniel), strong connections to other films about dads faced with new responsibilities, the surprisingly non-villainous Stu, played to perfection by Pierce Brosnan, Sally Field's always rock-solid performance, our maximum adoration of Harvey Fierstein, the use of disguise and role-playing as a means to self-discovery throughout literature, and how this film, which handles the theme of children dealing with divorce so tenderly, was like free therapy to us in the 90s (and we're guessing to other Xennials as well). Give it a listen!

In this episode of 92NY Talks, join Amy Schneider, the most successful woman to ever compete on Jeopardy!, as she sits down with Harvey Fierstein to share her singular journey that led to becoming an unlikely icon and hero to millions. Her impressive forty-game winning streak was accompanied by an even greater prize — the joy of being herself on national television and blazing a trail for openly queer and transgender people around the world. The conversation was recorded on October 4, 2023 in front of a live audience at The 92nd Street Y, New York.

Marc MacNamara is on location with NakedSword in Scotland, John Hill is sitting in front of his new limewashed walls, and we're all ready for a brand new episode of DISCRETION ADVISED! Strap in and strap on as they spill on being second row at Janelle Monáe, mean TikTok comments, Humunga Kowabunga, Marc's new movie, John's upcoming live shows, and some European geography questions that are honestly too confusing to even explain here. John's mother and entertainment icon Harvey Fierstein then comes on the pod to chit-chat about everything from his time in HAIRSPRAY with John to all the bed bugs in Paris, $18,000 quilts, gender identity, LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, where he keeps all his Tony Awards, and preferred plotlines in adult videos. Then, season one AMERICAN IDOL contestant Jim Verraros hops in to dish all about his new single, why he was told not to come out of the closet on IDOL, and if anyone was a diva during that season one IDOL tour. To close out, Marc and John are both listing their all-time favorite comebacks after talking to upcoming NakedSword Originals actor Jonas Jackson about all his near-death experiences and his recent shoot with Marc.  Official Merch – FalconMerchShop.com Watch on YouTube – @DiscAdPod John's 10/12 San Francisco Show – Tickets John's 10/26 New Orleans Show – Tickets  Follow on TikTok – @DiscAdPod Follow on Instagram – @DiscAdPod Follow on Twitter – @DiscAdPod Official Website – DiscAdPod.com Talk to us – ask@DiscAdPod.com

Harvey Brownstone conducts an in-depth interview with Charles Kirsch, Host, “Backstage Babble” Podcast About Harvey's guest: Today's guest,  Charles Kirsch, is a 15-year old superstar whose phenomenal knowledge and passion for the world of Broadway theatre has made him one of the most popular and respected podcast interviewers in America.   He fell in love with Broadway shows at the tender age of 7, and when he was 10 years old, he started a blog called “Broadway Baby”.   And 3 years ago, this young man, who was barely entering adolescence, launched his hugely popular podcast, “Backstage Babble”, which, so far, has presented over 150 in-depth interviews with legendary stars  including Carol Burnett, Joel Grey, Ed Asner, Harvey Fierstein, Chita Rivera, Marc Shaiman, Hal Linden, Bob Mackie and dozens more.    The level of sophistication, research, professionalism and poise that this young man demonstrates as an interviewer, is nothing short of jaw-dropping.   And get this:  he has single-handedly organized reunions on zoom, of the casts and production teams of 3 Broadway shows: “Follies”, “Applause”, and “On the Twentieth Century”, which have brought him legions of viewers on his YouTube channel.   He's also produced live versions of his show,  featuring Broadway and cabaret stars at the renowned “54 Below” nightclub  in New York, and he's hosted 5 game night benefits for the non-profit organization “Dancers Over 40”.  He is a voting member of the Drama Desk, and a contributor to Cast Album Reviews, Encore Magazine, and he wrote a chapter about the Broadway show “Annie” in the new book, “50 Key Stage Musicals”. For more interviews and podcasts go to: https://www.harveybrownstoneinterviews.com/ To see more about Charles Kirsch, go to:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083157977219https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsS2yFOjeB4oDLBOd8t7TjA https://cbroadwaypodcast.podbean.com/ #CharlesKirsch   #harveybrownstoneinterviews

Shrek 2 (2004) vs. Star Wars: Episode 3- Revenge of the Sith (2005, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006) vs. Spider-Man 3 (2007). Only two can advance! The boys continue their Summer Blockbuster Face-Off, the challenge to determine once and for all what the greatest summer blockbuster of all time! We take the highest grossing *summer* movie of every year from 1980-2019 (plus Jaws and Star Wars), and we have them battle to the death until only one remains! Our first three episodes were a doozy: Empire, Raiders, E.T, Jedi, Back to the Future, Ghostbusters, Top Gun, Beverly Hills Cop II, Batman (1989), Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Ghost, Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Damn! Please like and subscribe to keep up with our bracket!  Find all of our Socials at: https://linktr.ee/theloveofcinema. 
Our phone number is 646-484-9298, it accepts texts or voice messages. 0:00 Intro; 7:17 Shrek 2 (2004) vs. Star Wars: Episode 3- Revenge of the Sith ; 49:40 Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006) vs. Spider-Man 3 (2007) 01:30:23 What You Been Watching?. Cast/Crew: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Roland Emmerich, Barry Sonnenfeld, Jeff Goldblum, Rip Torn, Vincent D'Onofrio, Bill Pulman, Randy Quaid, Harvey Fierstein, Michael Bay, Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Steve Buscemi, Will Patton, Keith David, Michael Clarke Duncan, George Lucas, Ewan McGregor, Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman.   Additional Tags: Anakin, Darth Maul, Batman, Superman, Disney, Warner Bros, Film Noir, Danny Elfman, Chinatown, Australia, Melbourne, Queensland, The Philippines, Writer's Strike, WGA, Adelaide, Spotify, residuals,  Apple+, Apple TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, TikTok, Twitch, Concord, NC, New Jersey, Method Acting, Jeremy Strong, Brando, Pacino, Dustin Hoffman, Summer Movies, Star Wars, E.T., Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Return of the Jedi, The Empire Strikes Back. 

Mission Impossible: II (2000) vs. Shrek (2001), Spider-Man (2002) vs. Finding Nemo (2003). Only two can advance! The boys continue their Summer Blockbuster Face-Off, the challenge to determine once and for all what the greatest summer blockbuster of all time! We take the highest grossing *summer* movie of every year from 1980-2019 (plus Jaws and Star Wars), and we have them battle to the death until only one remains! Find all of our Socials at: https://linktr.ee/theloveofcinema.

Our phone number is 646-484-9298, it accepts texts or voice messages. 0:00 Intro; 5:18 Indiana Jones Mini Review; 13:21 Independence Day vs. Men In Black; 52:37 Armageddon vs. The Phantom Menace; 01:34:44 What You Been Watching? Cast/Crew: Harrison Ford, Stephen Spielberg, Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Roland Emmerich, James L. Brooks, Willem Defoe, Barry Sonnenfeld, Jeff Goldblum, Rip Torn, Vincent D'Onofrio, Bill Pulman, Randy Quaid, Harvey Fierstein, Michael Bay, Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Steve Buscemi, Will Patton, Keith David, Michael Clarke Duncan, George Lucas, Ewan McGregor, Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman.
 
 Additional Tags: Australia, Ellen Degeneres, Fish, Tobey McGuire, James Franco, Queensland, EAC, Lucasfilm, Anakin, Darth Maul, Batman, Superman, Disney, Warner Bros, Film Noir, Danny Elfman, Chinatown, Australia, Melbourne, Queensland, The Philippines, Writer's Strike, WGA, Adelaide, Spotify, residuals,  Apple+, Apple TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, TikTok, Twitch, Concord, NC, New Jersey, Method Acting, Jeremy Strong, Brando, Pacino, Dustin Hoffman, Summer Movies, Star Wars, E.T., Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Return of the Jedi, The Empire Strikes Back. 

Independence Day (1996) vs. Men In Black (1997), Armageddon (1998) vs. Star Wars: Episode One- The Phantom Menace (1999). Only two can advance! The boys continue their Summer Blockbuster Face-Off, the challenge to determine once and for all what the greatest summer blockbuster of all time! We take the highest grossing *summer* movie of every year from 1980-2019 (plus Jaws and Star Wars), and we have them battle to the death until only one remains! Our first three episodes were a doozy: Empire, Raiders, E.T, Jedi, Back to the Future, Ghostbusters, Top Gun, Beverly Hills Cop II, Batman (1989), Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Ghost, Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Damn! Please like and subscribe to keep up with our bracket!  Find all of our Socials at: https://linktr.ee/theloveofcinema. 
Our phone number is 646-484-9298, it accepts texts or voice messages. 0:00 Intro; 5:18 Independence Day vs. Men In Black; 40:35 Armageddon vs. The Phantom Menace; 01:18:14 What You Been Watching?. Cast/Crew: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Roland Emmerich, Barry Sonnenfeld, Jeff Goldblum, Rip Torn, Vincent D'Onofrio, Bill Pulman, Randy Quaid, Harvey Fierstein, Michael Bay, Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Steve Buscemi, Will Patton, Keith David, Michael Clarke Duncan, George Lucas, Ewan McGregor, Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman.   Additional Tags: Anakin, Darth Maul, Batman, Superman, Disney, Warner Bros, Film Noir, Danny Elfman, Chinatown, Australia, Melbourne, Queensland, The Philippines, Writer's Strike, WGA, Adelaide, Spotify, residuals,  Apple+, Apple TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, TikTok, Twitch, Concord, NC, New Jersey, Method Acting, Jeremy Strong, Brando, Pacino, Dustin Hoffman, Summer Movies, Star Wars, E.T., Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Return of the Jedi, The Empire Strikes Back. 

FUNNY GIRL  Music by Jule Styne | Lyrics by Bob Merrill | Book by Isabel Lennart from an original story by Miss Lennart Works Consulted & Reference :Funny Girl (Original Libretto) by  Isabel Lennart & Bob MerrillJule: The Story of Composer Jule Styne by Theodore TaylorMusic Credits:"Overture" from Dear World (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music by Jerry Herman | Performed by Dear World Orchestra & Donald Pippin"The Speed Test" from Thoroughly Modern Millie  (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music by Jeanine Tesori, Lyrics by Dick Scanlan | Performed by Marc Kudisch, Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan & Ensemble"Why God Why" from Miss Saigon: The Definitive Live Recording  (Original Cast Recording  / Deluxe)  | Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, Lyrics by Alain Boublil & Richard Maltby Jr.  | Performed by Alistair Brammer"Back to Before" from Ragtime: The Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music by Stephen Flaherty, Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens | Performed by Marin Mazzie"Chromolume #7 / Putting It Together" from Sunday in the Park with George (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim | Performed by Mandy Patinkin, Bernadette Peters, Judith Moore, Cris Groenendaal, Charles Kimbrough, William Parry, Nancy Opel, Robert Westenberg, Dana Ivey, Kurt Knudson, Barbara Bryne"What's Inside" from Waitress (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music & Lyrics by Sara Bareilles | Performed by Jessie Mueller & Ensemble"Don't Rain on My Parade” from  Funny Girl (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music by Jule Styne | Lyrics by Bob Merrill |  Performed by Barbra Streisand"Maria" from The Sound of Music (Original Soundtrack Recording)  | Music by Richard Rodgers, Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II | Performed by Evadne Baker, Anna Lee, Portia Nelson, Marni Nixon"My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music (Original Soundtrack Recording) | Music by Richard Rodgers, Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II | Performed by Julie Andrews"Corner of the Sky" from Pippin (New Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz | Performed by Matthew James Thomas“What Comes Next?” from Hamilton (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda | Performed by Jonathan Groff

Love Is Blind: Jim is obsessed with the latest season of Netflix trash reality show LOVE IS BLIND. I WANT TO BE NEENJA: Jennifer Murphy Go Girl is still out there cashing in on her Internet fame, this time with a I WANT TO BE NEENJA movie trailer! Jennifer Murphy GoGirl Show: As we fall further down the pit of cringe we watch the talk show pitch from Jennifer Murphy Go Girl herself! SO FUCKING COOL!, PLAY SOME RAP MUSIC!, THE LAST BOY SCOUT!, SQUEEZE!, TEMPTED!, PHILIP SEYMOUR HOFFMAN!, FROM THE GRAVE!, RECORDING!, PUNCH DRUNK LOVE!, SHUT UP!, JACK BLACK!, ED NORTON!, ALONG CAME POLLY!, BEN STILLER!, KEEPING THE FAITH!, 25TH HOUR!, JENNIFER ANISTON!, INDEPENDENCE DAY!, JUDD HIRSCH!, DAVID'S FATHER!, HARVEY FIERSTEIN!, JEFF GOLDBLUM!, AREA 51!, WASPS!, PROTESTANTS!, CAT'S TONGUE!, NETFLIX!, LOVE IS BLIND!, REALITY SHOW!, REALITY VILLAINS!, DRAMA!, PROPOSAL!, ENGAGEMENT!, MICAH!, KWAME!, IRINA!, MEAN GIRLS!, ROCK OF LOVE!, BRET MICHAELS!, SPONSORSHIPS!, COOL GUY!, IMAGE!, SOCIAL MEDIA!, HOGWARTS LEGACY!, PARAGON!, RENEGADE!, VILLAIN IN THE GAME!, SWEET GUY!, RIGHT TRIGGER!, JENNIFER MURPHY BED!, I WANT TO BE NEENJA!, MOVIE!, TRAILER!, BACKLASH!, BILLIONAIRE VILLAIN!, ASIAN CABAL!, MERCH!, SOULJA BOY!, BENNY!, VOTE!, SMIRKLE!, PRINT TO OWN!, KEYS!, UNICEF!, MOBILE GAME!, GOOGLE PLAY!, BIRTHDAY GO GIRL!, MUSIC VIDEO!, RICH WHITE LADY!, JESSE DRAPER!, BARBIE JEEP!, PARACHUTE!, ANGEL!, DEVIL!, AUDIO!, MICROPHONE!, CALL ME MAYBE!, FLASH MOB WEDDING!, WHITE WOMEN!, COOZIE!, SPA GIRL COCKTAILS!,  You can find the videos from this episode at our Discord RIGHT HERE!

Book Vs. Movie: Kinky BootsThe True Story Behind the 2005 Movie & 2013 Broadway Musical (and the 2019 movie!)The “Month of Musicals” concludes with Kinky Boots, the true story of a footwear company in Earls Barton, North Hamptonshire, UK--WJ Brooks. The factory was in Steve Pateman's family for decades when in the 1990s, they started losing money to the cheaper, faster competition. Pateman appeared on BBC's Trouble at the Top documentary showing how his company switched to creating boots for transvestites who needed more security when they stood in high heels. The collection expanded to “kink wear,” dubbed “Kinky Boots” by the BBC producers, and the story took off. In 2005, director Julian Jarrold and writers Geoff Deane and Tim Firth brought the story to life (unfortunately, the factory had to close in 2000.) Joel Edgerton plays Charlie Price (the Steve Patemen substitute), and Chiwetel Ejiofor's Lola is an amalgam of several drag queens that were customers of WJ Brooks's “Divine, Provider, and Lady Provider” brands. The film has an amazing soundtrack, and Ejiofor was nominated for a Golden Globe. Harvey Fierstein wrote the book for the musical with legendary talent Cyndi Lauper creating the music and lyrics before its debut in Chicago in 2013. The production would go on to be a smash Broadway hit, earning six Tony Awards and with productions around the world. The Margos debate between the film and the musical to try and decide which we like more!In this ep the Margos discuss:The backstory of the movieThe theme of drag in popular culture and how it is being weaponized currentlyThe cast of the 2005 film: Joel Edgerton (Charlie Price,) Chiwetel Ejiofor (Lola,) Sarah-Jane Potts (Lauren,) Jemima Rooper (Nicola,) Nick Frost (Don Burton,) Linda Bassett (Melanie,) Robert Pugh (Harold Price,) and Ewan Hooper as George.The cast of the original 2013 Broadway show: Stark Sands (Charlie Price,) Billy Porter (Lola,) Annaleigh Ashford (Lauren), and Lena Hall as Nicola.The original London cast: Killian Donnelly (Charlie Price,) Matt Henry (Lola,) Sophie Wright (Lauren,) Teagan Wouters (Nicola,) and Joe Kosky as Don.Clips used:“Burgandy!!”Kinky Boots original 2005 trailer“Whatever Lola Wants” Chiwetel Ejiofor Arm wrestling with Lola“These Boots Are Made for Walking” Chiwetel EjioforKinky Boots 2013 Broadway trailerKinky Boots 2013 Tony Awards Billy Porter“Land of Lola” Kinky Boots: The Musical (2019) Matt HenryMusic: Raise You Up International Pride Cast Reunion 2020 Billy Porter & Co.Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.comEmail us at bookversusmoviepodcast@gmail.com Margo D. @BrooklynMargo www.brooklynfitchick.com brooklynfitchick@gmail.comMargo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine

Book Vs. Movie: La Cage Aux Folles & The BirdcageThe Original Film and Broadway Musical Vs. the 1996 FilmThe “Month of Musicals” continues with the 1996 film The Birdcage, which took its influence from the play turned into Broadway musical La Cage Aux Folles. The original 1973 french play takes place in Saint-Tropez, where a gay couple meets an ultra-conservative family member. It was a huge hit in Paris, playing for over a year in 1973, and was made into a film in 1978. Originally written by Jean Poiret, the original played in Paris for over 1800 performances with Poiret and Michell Serrault as the leads Georges and Albin, aka “Zaza.” The 1978 film had Italian actor Ugo Tognazzi as the lead playing Renato Baldi to Serrault's Albin. It played to art houses across America. Poiret wanted to film the American version of the film, so he refused to sell the rights to the play but had no problem selling it as a musical. Grease producer Allan Carr helped bring the project to Broadway as a musical, with Harvey Fierstein writing the book. Jerry Herman (Hello Dolly & Mame) was a revered lyricist and songwriter who provided the music. Director Arthur Laurents helped to make the 1983 production a massive success, with the song “I Am What I Am” becoming a gay anthem. It's important to remember what the culture was like in 1984, and having a gay married couple running a drag nightclub being the protagonists was a huge deal in the Queer community. The idea that 40 years later, we have to fight ugly stereotypes about gay people and drag culture is dispiriting, but we are allies who will sing the work's praises. AND point out the hypocrisy happening in the news cycles today. The original production won the 1984 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Book, Best Original Score, and in 2004, Best Revival of a Musical. (And in 2010 as well!) No less than comedy powerhouses Elaine May and Mike Nichols wrote and directed the 1996 filmed nonmusical adaptation, which stars Robin Williams and Nathan Lane as Arman and Albert Goldman. They run the most popular club in Miami and live with their housekeeper Agador (Hank Azaria). Their son Val (ugh--this character is the one bad spot in an otherwise joyous film) wants to marry his college girlfriend. Still, her parents are conservatives who fear his senate run will be badly affected by being associated with “that lifestyle.” (Some of this is dated and distressingly familiar.)Which did we like better between the previous versions of the story and the 1996 film? In this ep the Margos discuss:The backstory of La Cage Aux FollesThe era of the 80s and how gay people were played in pop cultureThe work of Nichols & MayThe cast of the 1996 Movie: Robin Williams (Armand,) Nathan Lane (Albert,) Gene Hackman (Senator Kevin Keeley,) Dianne Weist (Louise Keeley,) Dan Futterman (Val Goldman,) Calista Flockhart (Barbara Keeley,) Hank Aazaria (Agador Spartacus,) and Christine Baranski as Katharine Archer.The cast of the original Broadway show: George Hearn (Albin,) Gene Barry (Georges,) and John Weiner as Jean Michel.Clips used:Albert rehearses with ArmandThe Birdcage 1996 trailer George Hearn 1984 Tony Awards Awards “I Am What I Am”Albert rehearses with his “love goddess.”“Mrs. Coleman” shows upMusic: The Goldman Girls We Are Family Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.comEmail us at bookversusmoviepodcast@gmail.com Margo D. @BrooklynMargo www.brooklynfitchick.com brooklynfitchick@gmail.comMargo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine

SNL alumni Jon Lovitz joins us, Alex Murdaugh guilty, NBA All-Star hothead Ja Morant, Tom Mazawey on Plato's Retreat, new docs coming on Jared from Subway & Jussie Smollett, a Bonerline, and Jared Goff settles his beef with Valentine Distilling. Sports: It's business as usual for #1 NFL Draft prospect Jalen Carter. NBA All Star Ja Morant beat the crap out of a teenager last year and we're learning about it right now. Jared Goff and Valentine Distilling Co. have buried their beef. The jury is now deliberating in the Alex Murdaugh trial. A juror has been dismissed for talking to people about the case, but she needs her eggs before she jets. OJ Simpson weighs in by making jokes. The Ted Williams' Clip of the Day features Ted's favorite voices of all-time. GhostBudsters Farms brings you today's Bonerline! Call or text 209-66-Boner. Livvy Dunne is still the hottest college influencer out there. The Cavinder Twins are hot on her trail (NSFW). Jason Carr Drive rolls on. Tom Mazawey joins the show to try and get the Mr. Skin password again, remember Plato's Retreat, his audience appearances at Donahue and Geraldo, NFL Draft analysis, discuss the Jalen Carter debacle, promote Astronomicon and more. Grab your EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal by going to nordvpn.com/dams to get a Huge Discount off your NordVPN Plan + a Bonus Gift! It's completely risk free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee! Where is Jason Lee? Jon Lovitz joins the show to explain The Peanut Song, collaborating with Penny Marshall, almost being the star of Bad Boys, his George Santos impersonation, his beef with Harvey Fierstein and promote his appearance at Astronomicon. Jared From Subway: Catching A Monster is coming soon to Investigation ID. Aaron Carter's mom wants you to see where he died. See the feces-death-water for yourself. Crazy Britney Spears sold the house she just bought and takes a loss. She's so good with her own money. Weatherman, Erick Adame, finally speaks out about getting fired following revenge porn. Trevor Bauer losses his defamation suit against Deadspin. We're not quite sure where the Detroit Tigers, Pistons and Red Wings will air if Diamond Sports goes bankrupt. Jeremy Clarkson finally loses a job because of his Meghan Markle comments. Fox Nation has a Jussie Smollett docuseries on the way. Jussie still demands a retrial. Joe Biden is getting crap for a chuckle following the accusation of killing Rebecca Kiessling's sons. The clean-up crew in East Palestine are now getting sick. Alex Murdaugh has been found guilty of murdering Paw Paw and Maggs. Follow our YouTube channel and buy 250,000 bots to follow it as well. Episode 8 of the Daddy & Charlotte Show with a Special Guest drops right... NOW! Visit Our Presenting Sponsor Hall Financial – Michigan's highest rated mortgage company Social media is dumb, but we're on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (Drew and Mike Show, Marc Fellhauer, Trudi Daniels and BranDon).

When Tony Award-winning actor and playwright Harvey Fierstein was growing up in New York City in the 60s, he was surrounded by the beginnings of the gay rights movement, and protest art and avant-garde theater was the norm. "I didn't know that being gay was sad until I got out into the world and they told me that," he said in our interview. "All the gay people I know are really kind of happy." And writing from that lens has informed his work ever since. In his new memoir, I Was Better Last Night, Harvey shares the six year journey to get his breakthrough play, Torch Song Trilogy, on Broadway, and shares other behind the scenes stories from hit Broadway plays like Hairspray, Fiddler on the Roof, and La Cage aux Folles. He also told me about his relationship with his younger brother turned business manager, why he's happily single and sober, and how he thinks he'll be remembered.

The guiding philosophy in the life of Harvey Fierstein is simple: Say yes. As he put together his new memoir, I Was Better Last Night, it was clear to Harvey his extraordinary life relied on saying yes to opportunities, yes to activism, and yes to his own self worth. Harvey and Marc talk about the challenges of dealing with the past in memoir writing, the importance of telling the stories of gay culture in the '60s and '70s, and the evolving understanding of gender and identity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.