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.

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.

Robert Morley, stage and screen actor, starring in Ustinov's "Halfway Up the Tree," discusses education, technology and youth and the changes in the social makeup because of technology.

Tribute to Bill Leonard

Interviewing the cast of the musical revue "Suburbs of Heaven," songwriter Thom Bishop, singers Marty Peifer and Megon McDonough. Songs include "Mr. Arthur's Place," "Why Not Talk to Me?" "The Telephone Song," "Just Because You Didn't See Me," "Suburbs of Heaven," "Times I Tried to Love You," "Amateur Night/New Year's Eve," and "Somebody Feels the Water."