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Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.

'Caught by the Tides' turns discarded documentary scraps into a remarkable drama
This documentary-drama hybrid is one of the best new movies our critic's seen this year. It draws on archival footage to tell a story of two lovers separating and reuniting over roughly two decades.
New Box Set Shows Off The Twisted Rhythms Of Jazz Pianist James P. Johnson
by Kevin Whitehead
Johnson was one of the greatest pianists of his time. Critic Kevin Whitehead says the Classic James P. Johnson Sessions (1921-1943) "paints a portrait of a working virtuoso."
At 82, Broadway 'Master Of Ceremonies' Joel Grey Says, 'Life Seems Full'
Grey explains how he brought his decadent Cabaret character to life on both the stage and screen, and reflects on coming out as gay after years of living closeted. His memoir is Master Of Ceremonies.
Remembering Folk Singer/Songwriter Dan Hicks
by Ed Ward
Hicks, who died on Saturday, began performing with his band Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks in the late '60s. Rock historian Ed Ward has an appreciation. Originally broadcast Jan 10, 2002.
Sia Reclaims Songs She Wrote For Others On 'This Is Acting'
by Ken Tucker
The Australian songwriter who has written hits for Rihanna, Beyonce and Katy Perry just released an album of her own. Critic Ken Tucker likes Sia's singing, in part, because of its imperfections.
Chris Offutt Reveals A Family Secret In 'My Father, The Pornographer'
Offutt's late father went from running a small insurance agency to writing more than 400 books, mostly pornography. Originally broadcast March 2, 2015.
Coen Brothers Spoof Old Hollywood, With Mixed Results, In 'Hail, Caesar!'
by David Edelstein
The new period comedy by Joel and Ethan Coen takes place backstage at a 1950s Hollywood studio. Reviewer David Edelstein says that despite flashes of brilliance, the film "feels thin."
Lizzo Brings Ideas, Humor And Sass To 'Big Grrrl Small World'
by Milo Miles
The vivacious alt-rapper Lizzo mixes rap, gospel and neo-soul on her new album. Critic Milo Miles says Big Grrrl Small World will win listeners over with its energy and hooks.
'Egyptian Jon Stewart' Bassem Youssef Will Now Satirize U.S. Democracy
Bassem Youssef created what became the most popular TV show in Egypt's history, but the government had the show cancelled, and Youssef fled Egypt.
'The Yid' Puts A Brash, Screwball Spin On Soviet Anti-Semitism
by Maureen Corrigan
Paul Goldberg's debut novel is an ambitious historical fantasy about Stalin's 1953 plan to purge Jews from the Soviet Union. Critic Maureen Corrigan says The Yid is a wildly inventive "what if" story.