(Borrowed from my husband who bought it on Amazon) This was a short book of stories, so I figured I could polish it off before moving on to other longer works. Russian author Ulitskaya offers fascinating portraits of citizens caught between their intellect and their passions. An older woman wants to commit suicide, but then marries the reluctant doctor prescribing the pills to do the job. A stuffed toy dog takes on significance for a deprived family. A librarian gradually loses her command of vocabulary. Hints of magic realism as one character transforms into a butterfly and a coroner receives a visit from the afterlife. Enjoyable and thought-provoking in spite of their brevity. (only 150 pages).
The David Desk 2
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Book Review: Capote's Women: A True Story of Love, Betrayal and a Swan Song for an Era
I don't think Capote ever finished Answered Prayers. The series imagines he did but burned the manuscript and screenwriter Jon Robin Baitz imagines endings for each of the characters in the book. It's a fascinating read but not very in-depth.
B'way Update: Tammy Faye and Sunset Set Dates
Andrew Rannells and Katie Brayben will repeat their London performances when Tammy Faye moves to Broadway. Credit: Marc Brenner |
Sunset Boulevard will begin its NY performances on Sept. 28 at the St. James Theater with an opening set for Oct. 20. Andrew Lloyd Webber's adaptation of Billy Wilder's classic film of the delusional silent film star Norma Desmond is directed by Jamie Lloyd and was nominated for 11 Olivier Awards during its London run. Repeating their Oliver-nominated performances are Nicole Scherzinger as Norma, Tom Francis as Joe Gillis, Grace Hodgett-Young as Betty Schaeffer and Oliver winner David Thaxton as Max von Meyerling.
Friday, March 22, 2024
B'way Update: Delia Ephron Memoir on Stage
Delia Ephron |
“I am grateful and thrilled to be working with these champions of theater – Susan Stroman and Daryl Roth,” said Delia Ephron. “Left on Tenth is about a perilous and wondrous time of my life. We invite you to join our team of warriors and become believers yourselves.”
Juliana Marguiles and Peter Gallagher
“When Delia first spoke to me about her manuscript of Left on Tenth, I felt that her story would make a magnificent play,” said Producer Daryl Roth. “It is heartfelt, deeply personal yet universal, and full of hope. But it is also a classic romantic comedy for a certain generation, showing us that we can all be blessed with a second chance at life and love.”
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
B'way Update: Illinoise, Ben Platt, Stranger Things
The cast of Illinoise which will transfer to the St. James in time for the Tonys. Credit: Stephanie Berger |
"We're absolutely thrilled to bring Illinoise to the St. James Theatre on Broadway. This project has been ruminating in my mind for nearly 20 years, which makes this moment even more sublime,” says director-choreographer Justin Peck. The audience response throughout our engagement at Fisher Center at Bard, Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Park Avenue Armory has been extraordinary, and we feel lucky that we get to continue sharing this unique show with future audiences on Broadway. Illinoise is a coming-of-age story that takes the audience on a journey through the American heartland -- from campfire storytelling to the edges of the cosmos -- all told in through a unique blend of music, dance, and theater. On behalf of my team, we welcome this rare opportunity with full hearts."
Sunday, March 17, 2024
Binging on John Ford: Part 3: St. Patrick's Day Irish Movies
Maureen O'Hara and John Wayne in The Quiet Man. |
Saturday, March 16, 2024
Return to 2022 Oscar Nominees
Ana de Armas in Blonde Credit: Netflix |
Marcel the Shell with Shoes on Credit: A24 |