
Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.

Conan O'Brien proves a worthy recipient of Mark Twain award in a new Netflix special
by David Bianculli
Back in March, a group of comic luminaries — from John Mulaney to Nikki Glaser — gathered at the Kennedy Center to celebrate O'Brien for receiving the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
From Ingenue To Antigone: Juliette Binoche Discusses Acting, Aging And Family
The Oscar-winning actress plays Antigone in a new translation of Sophocles' 2,000-year-old tragedy. "It's a very powerful play," Binoche says. Sophocles "still is bringing so much truth in our lives."
Comic Jim Gaffigan On Stand-Up, Faith And Opening For The Pope
On Saturday, Gaffigan will perform for an audience that may include Pope Francis. A practicing Catholic, the comic says faith is a central part of his humor.
Unadulterated Brass-Band Fun On Banda De Los Muertos' Debut Album
by Milo Miles
The horn-led band updates traditional Mexican party/folk music for modern American listeners on its self-titled album. Critic Milo Miles says Banda De Los Muertos' debut will make you dance.
'Fates And Furies' Offers A Tour-De-Force Plot, Minus Compelling Characters
by Maureen Corrigan
Lauren Groff's new novel paints a portrait of marriage from the clashing viewpoints of a husband and wife. Critic Maureen Corrigan says Fates and Furies is "a marvel" — but that it could be better.
'Fresh Air' Remembers: Jack Larson, Who Played Jimmy Olsen On TV's 'Superman'
Best known as the oft-kidnapped cub reporter on the original Superman TV show, Larson was also a poet, playwright and librettist. He died at his home Sunday. Originally broadcast in 1993.
Revisiting The Intense Twists And Turns Of Garner's 'Concert By The Sea'
by Kevin Whitehead
In 1955, pianist Erroll Garner's trio played in Carmel, Calif. A new complete edition of the Concert By The Sea album has just been released. Critic Kevin Whitehead has a review.
Assessing The $100 Million Upheaval Of Newark's Public Schools
In 2010, Mayor Cory Booker, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg devised a plan to improve Newark's failing schools. Dale Russakoff recounts their efforts in The Prize.
TV After The Emmy Awards: The Good, The Bad And 'The Muppets'
by David Bianculli
TV critic David Bianculli reflects on the Emmy ceremony held last night and looks ahead at the new fall TV season. If you only catch one new show this year, Bianculli recommends The Muppets on ABC.