Ep 8. Terrence Mcnally: Every Act Of Life

American Masters season 33 episode 8, titled "Terrence McNally: Every Act of Life," is a documentary film that explores the life and career of celebrated playwright Terrence McNally. The episode examines McNally's work, personal life, and legacy, using archival footage and interviews with people who knew him well, including actors, directors, and colleagues.

The documentary traces McNally's career from his early days in the theater scene in New York City in the 1960s, where he was part of a burgeoning movement of gay artists, through his rise to national prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. McNally's ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and emotions through his writing is a key theme of the episode, as we see how his plays, musicals, and operas tackled issues of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.

Throughout the episode, we hear from a range of interviewees who share their experiences working with McNally, as well as their reflections on his impact on the world of theater and culture more broadly. Among those featured are actresses Meryl Streep and Angela Lansbury, actor Nathan Lane, director Joe Mantello, and playwright Tony Kushner.

The episode also delves into McNally's personal life, exploring his struggles with addiction and the impact that his sexuality had on his work and relationships. Through interviews with McNally's husband, Tom Kirdahy, and others who knew him well, the documentary provides a nuanced and compelling portrait of McNally as both an artist and a person.

Ultimately, "Terrence McNally: Every Act of Life" paints a vivid and engaging picture of one of the most influential and acclaimed playwrights in American theater history. As we learn about McNally's life and work, we come away with a deeper appreciation for the power of art to connect us to each other and to the world around us.