A man who adored theater
“The Theater is not so much a profession, as a disease, and after attending my first production, at the age of 11, was the beginning of a life long infection” Tony Shalhoub as Moss Hart.
Like the National Theatre London, Lincoln Center Theater has started streaming some of their tremendous backlog of Tony award winning productions on YouTube. Released this week on Lights! Camera! Theater! is Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Act One from 2014 with Tony Shalhoub, Andrea Martin and Santino Fontana.
Act One is about the life of Broadway legend, Moss Hart, and how he got his break into the industry that he loved. Moss Hart toward the end of his life released a biography, that if you can track down a second hand copy is definitely worth this read. This production of the same name has been written and directed by James Lapine and is loosely based around the book.
Moss Hart was a proud family boy who grew up in the Bronx and ended up becoming one of the most loved Broadway Writer/Directors. There are a number of strong ladies who helped him along his way in the theater world. Moss Hart’s aunt Kate, she introduced him to theater at the age of 11. She would remain a strong influence in his life for the remainder of her eccentric life.
The other strong influence who helped introduce him to the theater world impresarios was the wife of famed writer George S. Kaufman, Beatrice. As we learn Beatrice reads all of the plays that are sent to her husband and advises and suggested which he should become involved. It is at a party where Beatrice invites all of Broadway to meet Moss that we learn she wants to help him land his big break.
Moss Hart for those of you who don’t know wrote some successful plays and screenplays through out his life. His works include Once in a Lifetime, You Can’t Take It with You, The Man Who Came to Dinner, Face the Music, As Thousands Cheer, Jubilee, I’d Rather Be Right, George Washington Slept Here, Christopher Blake, Light Up the Sky, Lady in The Dark. His screenplays include Gentleman’s Agreement, Hans Christian Andersen and A Star Is Born (1954).
But you might know some of Moss Hart’s work as a Director including the famed production of My Fair Lady with Julie Andrews and Camelot also starring Andrews and Richard Burton.
What is endearing about Act One is the sheer determination, love and passion Moss Hart has for the theater industry and the drive to get the best out of his work. Working with George S Kaufman you see Moss develop his writing skills, this work is completed while he directs a small production out of the city. The man adored the stage and it’s art form.
Santino Fontana as young Moss Hart portrays a young man who is a barrel of energy who will never give up to make it as a playwright.
Tony Shalhoub as Moss’ father and numerous other influential characters in Moss Hart’s life, including George S. Kaufman. Tony is a tremendous actor and every scene he is captivating, genuine and will provide a sense of warmth.
Andrea Martin is simply a powerhouse. She plays a number of lovable individuals. Aunt Kate is a lovable eccentric who exudes a love for theater. Beatrice Kaufman is a sharp woman who can spot talent a mile away. Each of Andrea’s characterizations is as strong as the last and it is exciting watching her perform on the stage.
You might not know Moss Hart by name, but you should have heard of a number of his works. This is a play that will make you smile as there is something enjoyable about someone continually working so hard to get a break, learn from his mistakes and through strong determination eventually making a name for himself and going on to support his parents and siblings along the way.
Act One is currently streaming on the Lincoln Center Theater channel on Youtube. It is available to watch until 3rd July.