Zero Hour - Off-Broadway

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What Is the Story of Zero Hour?
Zero Hour tells the life story of theatrical icon and three-time Tony winner Zero Mostel, the original star of such Broadway classics as A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum and Fiddler on the Roof, as well as the original film version of The Producers. While giving an interview to a New York Times reporter in his Manhattan studio right before his death in 1977, Mostel recounts important moments of his life ranging from his parents’ decision to disown him for marrying outside their religion to his rise as a stage actor and his temporary setbacks resulting from being blacklisted during the Red Scare.
 

Should I See It?

What Is Zero Hour Like?
Zero Hour is a one act, one-man show. While Mostel is being interviewed during the show, the reporter is never actually seen. Instead the larger than life, cleverly tongued actor (in an award-winning performance by playwright Jim Brochu) erupts with hilarious anecdotes from his past in a way that wouldn’t allow another person to speak even if they were present. In the few moments in which Mostel pauses to listen to the reporter talk, it feels as if the audience has taken on the reporter role because of the strong bond formed with Mostel. The show references many of the actor's signature comedic antics and Broadway roles, but it is also very serious, especially when Mostel remembers several personal burdens, including a near fatal car accident. However, even when discussing the morbid, Mostel always uses jocular rhetoric.

Is Zero Hour Good for Kids?
Children will find Mostel’s eccentric facial expressions, gestures and altogether wild behavior humorous, but may lack the knowledge of the actor's career and its historical context. Also Mostel’s vernacular is frequently vulgar as he often swears and hurls insults at his unseen guest.