On Demand
The Next Big Thing Archive
December 2004
I'd Prefer Not To
Friday, December 31, 2004
We reinstitute a Next Big Thing year-end tradition, with our rendition of Melville’s "Bartleby the Scrivener." Also this week, music from Roy Nathanson of "The Jazz Passengers," and three works by Ethan Iverson from his solo days, before he made it big with "The Bad Plus." And, finally, some levity from the creator of "Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist."
You Have to Be Careful with Treacle
Friday, December 24, 2004
We temper our holiday cheer with a dose of morbidity – as well as a few quiet offerings that don’t fit either category. Among the offerings, a dark tale from Hans Christian Andersen; music from the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra; memories of childhood from Irish writer Nuala O’Faolain; and New Year’s resolutions from Jonathan Katz.
Camels, Kit Kats and Crashes
Friday, December 17, 2004
A day in the life of the Rockettes – backstage, with wardrobe assistant Celeste Canfield. Also, a new and disturbing love story from Joe Frank. Record spinning at the Tate Modern in London. An exposé concerning the entertainment of sheep. And, a forward-looking contest for "Word of the Year for 2005."
In the Most Unlikely Places
Friday, December 10, 2004
Jazz at McDonald’s, rock at a laundromat, and avant-garde violin in a chapel. Guest musicians include Ron McClure and Mark Feldman. Zero Boy is back to make more cartoons for radio. Comedian Charlie Schroeder tries his hand at scrapbooking. And Iraqi-American writer and actress Heather Raffo performs three roles from her one-woman show, "9 Parts of Desire."
"...But I insisted..."
Friday, December 03, 2004
A conversation with conceptual artist Sophie Calle, who has made an art of following other people's dictates. Also, something between documentary and fiction about homes large and small, from Australian radio producer Natalie Kestecher; a street medley from Walkman Buster Gideon D’Arcangelo; and fierce competition among adults playing Dodgeball.
