The Columnist Show Poster

The Columnist Tickets

The Columnist is set in mid-century America, when columnists are kings and Joseph Alsop wears the crown. Joe is beloved, feared and courted in equal measure by the Washington political world at whose center he sits. But as the 1960s dawn and America undergoes dizzying change, the intense political drama Joe is embroiled in becomes deeply personal as well.

This show is closed.

Performances ended on Jul. 8, 2012.

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About
Video & Photos
Venue
Story
Reviews
Cast & Creative

About The Columnist on Broadway

Previews: Apr 4, 2012 • Opening: Apr 25, 2012 • Closing: Jul 8, 2012
Broadway Plays Stars on Stage Drama
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Video & Photos

Venue

Samuel J Friedman Theatre Samuel J Friedman Theatre
261 West 47th Street
New York, NY 10036
Hearing Assistance
Assisted Listening Devices are available free of charge at the podium in the corridor just outside the entrance to the Orchestra.
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchair accessible seating may be purchased by phone, in person and online.
Elevators and Escalators
An elevator, located at the right of the box office lobby, provides easy access to all levels of the theater.
More Theater Information

Story

What Is the Story of The Columnist?
Power, influence, changing the course of history: It’s all in a day’s work for political pundit and Cold War enthusiast Joseph Alsop, who has made a name for himself via a widely syndicated column in the early 1960s. Known equally for his brash temper and impeccable taste, Alsop has a knack for uncovering the secrets of the dignitaries, presidents and socialites he writes about. But when an explosive personal secret the scribe has been hiding all his life is ready to blow, Alsop must question his place in the world, professionally and personally.

Reviews

A collection of our favorite reviews from professional news sources.

"Under Daniel Sullivan’s unerring direction, John Lithgow delivers a riveting turn in the title role of this crackling entertainment. The mercurial actor can go from flashing rage through wounded pride to glittering charm without breaking a sweat."

Backstage

Erik Haagensen

"Outfitted by costumer Jess Goldstein in the WASP uniform of bow tie, natty suits and owlish horn-rimmed glasses, with his ever-present cigarette holder trailing a curl of smoke, Lithgow is a magnetic central figure, imbuing the role with rich humor that offsets Joe’s more questionable behavior."

The Hollywood Reporter

David Rooney

Cast & Creative

Cast

Joseph Alsop
Margaret Colin
Susan
Stephen Kunken
David Halberstam
Grace Gummer
Abigail

Creative

Written by
David Auburn
Director
Daniel Sullivan
Set Designer
John Lee Beatty
Costume Designer
Jess Goldstein
Lighting Designer
Kenneth Posner
Sound Designer
John Gromada
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