Opening Night

This episode presents a behind-the-scenes study of the launching of a new play. The program focuses on the aspirations, talents and efforts of a director and cast that culminate in the exciting moment when a new play comes to life. The play is The dragon, a story of tyranny in the guise of a fairy tale, which opened April 9, 1963 at the Phoenix Theatre in New York City. This is the first off-Broadway production of Joseph Anthony, one of Broadway's top directors. The show includes Anthony's working with the actors and fusing the acting with the other elements of the play, such as lighting and costumes. Backstage scenes include Anthony's parting speech to the cast, portions of the play, and the principal players watching a review on TV. The play closed after a three-week run.