Zero Mostel talks about acting theory, French and American theater differences, and the reflection of art in society.

Zero Mostel talks about acting theory, French and American theater differences, and the reflection of art in society.

Contrary to what some people believe, Zero Mostel says that being an actor is not that easy of a job. Everything one knows, Mostel explains, becomes apart of who you are. The more one knows, the better his/her work will be.

Wole Soyinka discusses the play "Death and the King's Horseman." Includes passages from the play and Nigerian funeral music.

Now being a professional playwright, William Gibson talked about being able to write one of his plays in 8 days. A lot of the discussion is about his play, "The Miracle Worker". After reading one of Annie Sullivan's letters, and learning about a battle royale that Sullivan had with Helen Keller, Gibson envisioned what that battle royale would look like. It became a now famous part of the play.

William Ball discusses the American Conservatory Theater in Pittsburg, PA. They discuss in great detail how different the company is. Specifically that they keep themselves learning and perfecting the classic style. Dick Christiansen theater and film critic joins the conversation.

Terkel comments and presents songs and stories from "The Eight Hours"

Studs Terkel and playwright Wallace Shawn discuss Shawn’s play “The Designated Mourner,” and the play’s deeper themes. Both Shawn and Terkel read monologues from the play.

Viveca Lindfors discusses her roles and the roles of women in society. Includes Viveca Lindfors reciting lines written by Lillian Hellman.

While performing some of their original material, comedians Vic Greco and Fred Willard talk about how they come up with their ideas for their shows. Always the entertainers, and while talking over one another, Greco and Willard explain that most of what they do on stage is improvisation.

Studs Terkel interviews Valentin Pluchek and Stanislaw Pchenikov on Russia theater, focusing mainly on the city of Moscow.

Being able to use one's own life experiences should be used when playing a part is something Uta Hagen teaches in her book, "Respect for Acting". Hagen also points out the importance of keeping the audience engaged. Should someone on stage do something out of the ordinary, it's an incredible moment, as it's where the audience has placed their attention.

Tribute to Bill Leonard

Police officer Tommy Titmus recalls what it was like when people marched and protested at Clerkenwell Green. Titmus said the people marching resembled a rejected lot. Their marching had a purpose, explained Titmus, to demonstrate their plight to the queen. Residents of West Ham Old People's Home all agreed when people speak of the "Good Old Days," that there is no such thing. Jim Field, 79, Ted Blurton, 77, Mrs. MacClaine, 82, and Mrs. Mansfield, 69, said there were no jobs and there was no food. Mr. Field had to sell his pet canary to obtain money to get food.