History: Modern Theater

Robert Benedetti, dean of the theater department at the California Institute of the Arts, discusses his career, his teaching methods, and philosophy of theater in general. He touches upon some early experiences that led him to a career in theater. He also discusses the relationship between the actor and director in support of the directorless theater movement, some of which he employs when teaching his acting classes. He also touches upon the difference between acting live on stage and in front of a camera.

Jane Brody, born August 13, 1945, talks about her experiences as an actress. She started acting at a young age and spent her twenties traveling throughout the country acting in dinner theaters and festivals. She discusses her current struggles in Los Angeles, California attempting to find the right agent, trying to get auditions, and simply trying to be cast in a production. She closes the interview with advice to young actors.

Tony Randall, born 1920, discusses his technique behind acting. He points out that he acts no differently for stage, television, or film. He also describes the first moment he wanted to be an actor, as a child watching his classmates acting badly in .

Howard Schaefer, born December 16, 1920 and died September 10 1997, discusses his career as a director and producer. He touches upon the different techniques he uses when directing stage, television, and film performances. He discusses his philosophy as a director and how the director can relate to the actor. He also touches upon his vision of commercial media in the future and the role home entertainment will play.

Dore Schary, born in 1920 and died in 1980, discusses his career as a screenwriter and producer. He discusses the differences between writing and producing for stage, television, and film production. He concludes with advice for aspiring writers and actors.