Back to Show
American Masters
The origins of Shakespeare in the Park
Joe Papp built a stage on a 35 foot portable truck so he could bring Shakespeare to other communities. "I found myself directing all the plays on the mobile unit, because I felt this was the thing I wanted to be closely identified with, to bring Shakespeare to these communities," said Papp. When the truck fell apart in Central Park, Shakespeare in the Park found its permanent home.
Support Provided By
Season
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:33
Discover music icon Roberta Flack’s rise to stardom and triumphs over racism and sexism.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:21:59
Discover the enduring friendship between legendary comedians Dick Cavett and Groucho Marx.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:55
Explore Nobel Prize winner Saul Bellow's impact on American literature.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:29:33
See the story of the Indigenous singer-songwriter, social activist, educator and artist.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:22
Explore the life of the legendary singer, songwriter and co-founder of The Beach Boys.
1:23:57
Jason Momoa narrates the story of five-time Olympic medalist and surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
1:53:01
Explore the life of the famous singer who became an icon for the civil rights movement.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:36:11
Revisit the remarkable career and life of an icon who became a human rights pioneer.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:50
Revisit the remarkable career and life of an icon who became a human rights pioneer.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:28:42
Explore the life and 70-year career of the iconic Latina actor, performer and activist.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:31
Dive into the career of the legendary blues guitarist.