Benjamen Walker's Theory of Everything cover image

Benjamen Walker's Theory of Everything

Not All Propaganda is Art 5: The Play's the Thing

Feb 20, 2024
Kenneth Tynan, a renowned drama critic from the London Observer and The New Yorker, digs into the dynamic clash of art and politics. He recounts his fiery exchange with Hollywood's Samuel Goldwyn on socially engaged theater. The conversation highlights the 'London Controversy' over political themes in plays and touches on the provocative evolution of Hollywood in 1958. Tynan also reflects on the cultural tensions faced by Richard Wright, revealing how frustrations fueled his innovative radio play, merging comedy with profound societal critique.
01:11:07

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Quick takeaways

  • Kenneth Tynan's clash with Samuel Goldwyn highlights the tension between socially engaged art and the entertainment-focused narrative of Hollywood.
  • Dan Sinclair's play creatively subverts traditional gender roles by casting women in the male roles of the London Controversy conflict.

Deep dives

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