Defying Social Conventions
Close the door, unplug the phone, and take a break from the holiday frenzy with The Next Big Thing. This week, we celebrate those who defy social conventions, and those who are consumed by them. Stay tuned...
Tell Your Story Walking
Do you think eighty-five years of this life gives a person the right to tell it like she sees it? Henry Alford profiles professional volunteer Dolly Gallo.
The Doctor Is In
Shopping has taken on mythic qualities these days. It's supposed to show our indomitable spirit in the face of terrorism, to serve as a shot in the arm for a weak economy, and more. Shopping as a cure-all? What would your therapist say? Here's are a few possible scenarios, as conceived by comic improvisers Janeane Garofalo and David Rakoff.
This Is What I Live For
Accordionist Bill Schimmel takes requests - some stranger than others. Here, his chronicle of gigs played during the holiday season. They pay the rent, but at what price to ego and soul?
Making Vows
He was a monk, and had taken a one-year vow of silence. She met him on a mountain top, and decided to join him. They spent the year together. And then it was time to start talking. Here's their story, as documented and choreographed by audio artist Joan Schuman.
Bartleby the Scrivener
Herman Melville's Wall Street tale explores the murky territory of habit, inclination, peculiarity, incivility and cruelty. We could tell you more, but we would prefer not to. The play's adaptation is by playwright David Ives and is narrated by Barnard Hughes.
The Next Big Thing with Dean Olsher airs on WNYC New York Sundays from 11am-12 noon on 93.9FM and at 6pm on AM820. The Next Big Thing is funded in part by the Kaplen Foundation.
WNYC archives id: 11638
