Alexis Soloski recently interviewed Kauffman, and two of her stars, Oscar Isaac and Rachel Brosnahan, about the significance of presenting this rarely produced work, loosely about a couple's efforts to save their marriage amid political upheaval. "We are revisiting a huge conversation right now about white apathy and the consequences of that in our political system and world," Brosnahan said. "She explores that with such nuance in this play." |
Isaac spoke about Hansberry's "bravery" in depicting her bohemian artist characters in their "extreme selfishness, ignorance and ugliness." He added: "Then, within a sentence, they say something that breaks your heart." |
When asked what it's like being in a play, she said: "You get on that stage, and the lights hit you, and you're in a costume, and you're looking at this man who is just this actor but now he's your husband — it's transformative. Oddly I feel it's where exactly I need to be." |
How about a little music? Last week I asked you to share some of your favorite cast albums, and the emails flowed in immediately. It was really nice to get so many thoughtful responses. In fact, there were so many that I am going to share a few responses in each newsletter over the next month. |
Sue Yellin of New York said: "A Little Night Music" was "an all-time favorite," and "I love, love, love the beautiful, short-lived, underrated 'The Bridges of Madison County.'" (I agree! Jason Robert Brown's music and lyrics really moved me, especially as sung by Kelli O'Hara and Steven Pasquale.) |
Julia Kobos Arias of Oregon wrote about how, as a 13-year-old, her mother "bought me the two disc CD version of 'Rent' randomly at the airport not knowing it would completely change my life." The show "has had a major impact on the person I have become," she continued. "Before 'Rent,' I didn't know what AIDS was or anything about the L.G.B.T.Q.I.A. community, and I especially didn't know how wrongly people were treated for being their authentic selves or living with disease. 'Rent' reinforced the idea to live your dreams." |
And I'll leave you with Barbara Segal's recommendation: the "Hairspray" cast album. "As soon as I hear, 'Good morning, Baltimore,' I'm on the ride for the rest of the day." |
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