Theater of Lee Blessing

Philip Zwerling, now retired to the Mendocino Coast of California, previously taught creative writing at Ursinus College and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. He is the author of seven books on film, theater and history.

“This work will interest researchers and practitioners of contemporary US drama and performance”—American Literature.

• Table of ContentsPrefaceIntroduction1. The BeginningThe Authentic Life of Billy the Kid2. The Estrogen PlaysNice People Dancing to Good Country Music 20; Independence 27; Riches 33; Eleemosynary3. On Fields of DreamsOldtimers Game 46; Cooperstown 49; Cobb 50; Fantasy League 56; The Winning Streak 57; For the Loyal4. A Walk and a ViewA Walk in the Woods 67; A View of the Mountains5. The Headline PlaysTwo Rooms 85; Down the Road 93; Lake Street Extension 100; Patient A 104; The Rights 111; Going to St. Ives 112; Chesapeake 116; 34th and Dyer 119; Whores 120; Wood for the Fire 127; Seven Joys6. The Race PlaysBlack Sheep 134; Flag Day 139; Perilous Night7. Love Is All There IsThief River 150; The Roads That Lead Here 156; A Body of Water 159; The Scottish Play 165; Lonesome Hollow 169; Great Falls 174; Into You 179; Uncle8. The Rushmore PlaysFortinbras 188; Tyler Poked Taylor 193; Reagan in Hell 195; When We Go Upon the Sea9. The Plays of Life, Death and ImmortalityCold Water 202; Heaven’s My Destination 204; A User’s Guide to Hell Featuring Bernard Madoff 208; Unknown 213; Courting Harry 214; The Hourglass Project10. Writing for Movies and Television11. CurtainAppendix 1. The AwardsAppendix 2. The Napkin PlayAppendix 3. The PlaysChapter NotesBibliography Index