David Pollock, Bob and Ray: Keener Than Most Persons (Applause, $27.99). A straightforward, comprehensively informative study of the life and work of the soft-spoken radio comedy team whose deceptively dry spoofery of their chosen medium concealed a streak of sheer anarchy. Not for those who aren’t already familiar with their work–the author takes it for granted that you’re already a Bob and Ray buff–but if you recognize the names of Wally Ballou and Mary McGoon, this book’s definitely for you (TT).
Archives for May 12, 2013
PLAY
The Trip to Bountiful (Stephen Sondheim, 124 W. 43, extended through Sept. 1). Horton Foote’s masterpiece, finally revived on Broadway–it was last seen there in 1953–in an unforgettably excellent production starring Cicely Tyson and directed by Michael Wilson. I don’t know when I’ve seen a more perfectly realized example of nontraditional casting (most of the actors are black). I’ve never been more deeply moved by a theatrical production of any kind (TT).