Jonathan Miller discusses English society and class post WW2 and his TV movie Alice in Wonderland; part 2.

Jonathan Miller discusses English society and class post WW2 and his TV movie Alice in Wonderland; part 1.

Interviewing Shakespearean actor and director John Neville. Program includes an excerpt of a 1958 interview with Neville (T2299).

Studs Terkel discusses the upcoming new play "Of Mice and Men", based on the novel written by John Steinbeck with the starring actors, John Malkovich (Lennie) and Gary Sinise (George). The program begins with the opening excerpt from the play "Of Mice and Men" featuring Terkel (George) and Win Stracke (Lennie) from 1952, which then leads into Malkovich and Sinise's interpretation of the rest of the scene. Folk singer Utah Phillips song "On the Goodnight Loving Trail" is presented as a comparison to themes expressed in "Of Mice and Men".

John Lahr discusses celebrities, the media, and his book "Autograph Hound". Includes Studs Terkel and John Lahr reading from Lahr's book "Autograph Hound".

Discussing the Regal Theater with actor and theater historian John Keyes.

Director John Hirsch discusses and analyzes his interpretation of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” with Studs Terkel during a party for the Stratford Theater Company. Hirsch calls “Hamlet” a pessimistic play, commenting on Shakespeare’s depiction of society and the nature of the characters. He also says that the play’s complexities allow for several interpretations and understandings of the work, which contributes to his bare and simple production of Hamlet. The two discuss Hirsch’s production of “Mother Courage” and how current events and personal experiences influence Hirsch’s work.

Studs interviews John Eliot Gardiner about his career in baroque music and his background and interests. Studs announces that Gardiner is performing at Orchestra Hall in Chicago. Gardiner explains the instruments that his group uses and how they are different and capture the original sounds of pieces. He also describes the history and time period of baroque music. Gardiner explains various pieces that the choir performs such as Handel's "Israel in Egypt" and Henry Purcell's "King Arthur." The musical numbers are removed from this edited version of the original recording.

Eleanor Bron explained that audiences want something new from actors all the time. Bron said she was leery of all the newness because people would get bored. John Bird added that at times, it's difficult to be creative. In the end, they both spoke of their looking around for a two-person show to do together.

Eleanor Bron said television provided its audience with too many facts. Bron also said it’s dreadful to hear about all the misery and tragedy going on in today’s world. In contrast, John Bird said the television offered its audience an opportunity to learn more about world affairs. Switching to the topic of theatre, Bron said she preferred working in the theatre because, as an actor, she has more control over what’s done at every performance. In contrast again, Bird said he did not like acting on the stage.

Interviewing members of the Geese Theatre Company; Mike Bail, Jill Reiner, Tom Swift, and Artistic Director John Bergman. The Geese Theatre Company specializes in drama therapy in prisons, for correctional staff, and for sexual and violent offenders.

In conclusion, Joan Littlewood talks about the 21 acres of land that she owns by the banks of the river near London. Littlewood says people who live on the countryside and enjoy the outdoors are theatre lovers. When asked if she herself was crazy, Littlewood answered, "But aren't we all?"

Discussing the Redmoon Theater of Chicago with co-founders Bill Lasko, Blair Thomas and Clare Dolan. Mr. Thomas and Ms. Dolan were also puppeteers in the theater. The actors talk about making the puppets their own characters and making them larger than life. Audiences are captivated by the puppets, who offer a sense of wonder, magic and fantasy.

Ms. Binford talks with Studs about Jane Addams life and her dedication to social service with the women and children of Chicago. Ms.Binford discusses the creation of Hull House and the associated buildings and how deeply in need they were of the help.