Adventures in Theater History: Philadelphia

Herbert J. Biberman, the screenwriter, director and left-wing activist, was once one of the most well-known men in show biz - but not, unfortunately for his talent or his intellect. In 1950, he became famous for being one of the "Hollywood Ten," a group of men known for their opposition to politically-motivated industry blacklists - and facing prison for refusing to cooperate with the House Un-American Activities Committee. But Biberman's Philadelphia origin story is almost completely...

The rise of the Arden Theatre Company - as well as the story of the beginnings of the modern Walnut Street Theatre Company and the Lantern Theater Company. Support the show "Adventures in Theater History: Philadelphia" the BOOK can be ordered from independent bookstores and at all online book retailers now! For a link, go to our website: www.aithpodcast.com Our email address is [email protected] Follow us on social media: Bluesky: @aithpodcast.bsky.social Facebook: https://ww...

The story of Albert Innaurato and his play "Gemini." Set in South Philadelphia in the 1970s, it was to become the biggest commercial and artistic triumph of his career. The famous TV commercial for the original Broadway production is on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pz8p6-LconE But Gemini also served as a constant reminder that success can fleeting, and that an artist's personal demons can undermine their long-term reputation. We interview Charles Gilbert about his prof...

The director Abigail Adams and the actress Marcia Saunders talk to us about their lives and careers, and about how their theatrical and artistic home at People's Light in Malvern, Pennsylvania. To learn more about the production of Steel Magnolias at People's Light: https://www.peopleslight.org/whats-on/20252026-season/steel-magnolias/ Support the show "Adventures in Theater History: Philadelphia" the BOOK can be ordered from independent bookstores and at all online book retailers now!...

As a Holiday, treat, the Philadelphia actor Brian Wilson talks with us about his life and career. Brian tells us about his memories - everything from his roles on "The Wire," to his work with the director Walter Dallas, to his quest to perform in all the plays of August Wilson (no relation!). And he shares this thoughts about the state of African-American theater in the Quaker City at the beginning of the 21st Century. For a blog page with photos and additional info go to: https://www....