Watch American Playhouse

American Playhouse was a critically acclaimed anthology series that aired on PBS from 1982 to 1994. The show featured a wide range of dramatic productions, including adaptations of classic plays, productions of new plays by emerging playwrights, original television dramas, and made-for-TV movies.

The series was known for its high production values, strong acting performances, and emphasis on quality storytelling. Some of the most notable actors who appeared on the show include Jeffrey DeMunn, Elizabeth Franz, and Edward Herrmann, among many others.

One of the standout features of American Playhouse was its commitment to presenting diverse perspectives and voices. The series brought attention to a wide range of issues and experiences, from the struggles of working-class families to the experiences of minorities in America.

The individual productions that aired on American Playhouse were diverse in style and subject matter. Some focused on historical events, such as the Civil War drama "Soldier's Heart" and the World War II-era play "Miss Evers' Boys." Others explored contemporary issues, such as the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "The Kentucky Cycle," which examined the legacy of violence and oppression in rural Appalachia. Other notable productions included "The Marriage of Maria Braun," a film by German filmmaker Rainer Werner Fassbinder, and "A Raisin in the Sun," the seminal play by Lorraine Hansberry.

The series also frequently featured adaptations of classic plays, such as Thornton Wilder's "The Skin of Our Teeth," Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot," and Shakespeare's "The Tempest." These productions showcased the enduring relevance and power of these works, while also giving contemporary audiences a chance to see them in a new light.

In addition to its emphasis on quality storytelling and diverse perspectives, American Playhouse was also notable for its high production values. The show featured top-notch writing, directing, and cinematography, which helped to elevate the individual productions and make them stand out from other shows on television.

Overall, American Playhouse was a groundbreaking series that helped to elevate the art of television drama. Its commitment to quality storytelling, diverse voices, and top-notch production values made it a crucial part of American cultural history. While the show is no longer on the air, its legacy continues to inspire and inform contemporary television drama.

American Playhouse is a series that ran for 11 seasons (156 episodes) between January 12, 1982 and on PBS