Actor Steven Duchrow discusses his experience as a Chautauquan and the challenges of portraying historical characters. They explore the importance of understanding the character's worldview, the process of turning research into a performance, and provide superb recitations of poems by Vachel Lindsay and Carl Sandburg, including Sandburg's famous poem 'Chicago, Hog Butcher of the World'.
Extensive research and immersion into the character's world are essential in creating a solid and entertaining Chautauqua performance.
Vachel Lindsay and Carl Sandburg's poetry shed light on the tragic loss of the buffalo and the need for environmental conservation.
The legacy of Carl Sandburg and Vachel Lindsay as poets and their contributions to American literary and cultural history should be celebrated and shared with new generations.
Deep dives
The Chautauqua Method: Creating a Character
The podcast episode explores the process of creating a Chautauqua character, focusing on the portrayals of Carl Sandburg and Rachel Lindsay. It emphasizes the importance of delving into historical figures' lives, understanding their viewpoints, and embodying their perspectives. The discussion highlights the need for extensive research, reading primary and secondary sources, and immersing oneself in the character's world. Memorization is also highlighted as a crucial aspect, especially when it comes to performing poetry, as it allows for a more authentic and impactful delivery. The episode also touches on the significance of place and spirit of place in the work of both playwrights, as they sought to capture the essence of the Midwest and evoke a sense of pride in their respective communities. Overall, the episode provides insights into the Chautauqua method and the dedication required to bring historical characters to life on stage.
The Tragic Loss of the Buffalo and the Power of Poetry
One of the key themes discussed in the podcast episode is the tragic loss of the buffalo in American history. The conversation explores how Vachel Lindsay and Carl Sandburg used their poetry to capture the spirit and beauty of the buffalo, shed light on their near extinction, and address the impact of human actions on the environment. Several poems, such as 'Buffalo Dusk' and 'A Coin,' are mentioned to illustrate the depth and emotion present in their work. The episode delves into the dark history of buffalo hunting and the immense tonnage of buffalo bones left in its wake. The poems serve as a poignant reminder of the consequences of human greed and highlight the need for environmental conservation. The power of oral traditions and live performances in bringing these poems to life is also discussed, emphasizing the unique impact of spoken word and performance art in conveying messages of cultural and environmental significance.
The Legacy of Vachel Lindsay and Carl Sandburg
The podcast episode delves into the significance and impact of Vachel Lindsay and Carl Sandburg as poets and playwrights. It explores Lindsay's devotion to the idea of beauty and his endeavors to bring poetry to the people through his solo walks and performances. Lindsay's emphasis on place and the beauty of the Midwest, as well as his fight for social justice, are highlighted. The episode also discusses Sandburg's extensive body of work, including his acclaimed biography of Abraham Lincoln, his famous poem 'Chicago,' and his advocacy for better working conditions and workers' rights. The enduring relevance of their writings and the need to continue celebrating and sharing their work with new generations are addressed. The episode acknowledges the challenges faced in reviving lesser-known poets like Lindsay and emphasizes the importance of their contributions to American literary and cultural history.
The Art of the Chautauqua Performance
The podcast episode provides insights into the art of Chautauqua performances, emphasizing the combination of storytelling, recitation, and historical interpretation. It discusses the process of bringing characters to life on stage, focusing on the preparation required for performances based on extensive research on historical figures. The episode highlights the balance between reciting poetry and delivering stories to engage and captivate audiences. The character interview segment, where actors interact with the audience and answer questions, is also mentioned as an important element of Chautauqua performances. The episode concludes by expressing the value of Chautauqua in sparking conversations about history, literature, and cultural heritage, and the impact a live performance can have in animating the words and ideas of the past.
Reflection on Sandburg's Legacy and the Love for Home
Towards the end of the podcast episode, the focus shifts towards Carl Sandburg's legacy and his deep connection to his home in the Midwest. The discussion highlights Sandburg's love for the Great Plains and his belief in the spirit of place. Sandburg's decision to return to his roots and embrace the beauty and immensity of America's grasslands is discussed, emphasizing the deep personal connection individuals can have to their homeland. The conversation touches on the challenges faced in a changing political climate and the longing for a return to the importance of spirit of place and connection to nature. The episode concludes with a reflection on Sandburg's impact as a poet and a reminder that his words continue to inspire and engage audiences, keeping the spirit of place alive.
This week, Clay Jenkinson’s conversation with actor Steven Duchrow about taking on historical characters. Steven has been performing as the poet Vachel Lindsay for many years, but now he is taking on the character of the poet Carl Sandburg. Where do you start? How do you figure out what has to be in any performance whether it is five minutes long or an hour and a half? Once you have done all the research, how do you turn that immense body of information into a solid and entertaining Chautauqua performance? Steven Dukrow provides several superb recitations of poems by Vachel Lindsay and—of course—performs Sandburg’s most famous poem: Chicago, Hog Butcher of the World.
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