The Next Big Thing Archive

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August 2005

Unsentimental Journey

Friday, August 26, 2005

We look back at the many careers of a taxi driver, and at the remnants of two very different singing careers – one belonging to comedian Jonathan Katz, the other belonging to jazz violinist Matt Glaser’s mom. Also, a journey to a Drive-In movie theater in Vermont which doubles as a motel. Travels with wild plants and animals, low to the ground. And finally, a visit with a fictional character overwhelmed by domesticated animals, and domestic life more generally, performed by Steve Buscemi.

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We Require an Assertion of Value

Friday, August 19, 2005

A mischievous and dark short story written by the late Donald Barthelme. Conversations with philatelists. A telephone sing-along by some folks who don’t get out much anymore. Classically-influenced pop/punk music from singer/songwriter Regina Spektor. And another round of "Stump Zero Boy" with our favorite vocal acrobat.

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On and On

Friday, August 12, 2005

Some things are seemingly endless - the minutiae of tax law, the training that goes into becoming a professional body builder, or that now-famous vocal interlude that launched Donna Summer to the top of the charts. And then there are things that ARE endless. Like infinity. This week, we dissect all that goes on and on, with the help of astrophysicist Janna Levin, writer Sven Lindqvist, and voice coach Betsy Parrish.

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"... But I insisted..."

Friday, August 05, 2005

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.