THE COLUMNIST  at the Samuel Friedman Theatre

(Seen April 28, 2012)


David Auburn has written a revelatory drama about the life and secrets of a high profile and highly influential political journalist of the 1960s.  Joseph Alsop was a columnist who was both respected and feared, by presidents and politicians.

Auburn takes us behind the scenes, as we see Alsop's interactions with family, other journalists, and his not-so-secret sexual orientation.  While the dramatic impact is low-key, it is an informative look at a man, a time, and how historical events played out in his orderly life.

John Lithgow embodies the role completely, with all the complexities and foibles of the character, while Boyd Gaines, Margaret Colin and Grace Gummer lead the supporting cast with an easy reality. Director Daniel Sullivan has ably moved his strong cast on its meaningful journey.