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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.
Saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi's recipe for music is 'Extra Extra' on this new album
by Kevin Whitehead
No matter how much (or little) pre-planning occurs, the success of improvised music hinges on the chemistry of the players. In Extra Extra, Bergonzi's crew creates in the moment, without distractions.
'Rustin' star Colman Domingo says the civil rights activist has been a 'North Star'
by Terry Gross
Domingo plays Bayard Rustin, who helped organize the 1963 March on Washington, but was forced into the background because he was gay. Domingo also stars as the abusive husband in The Color Purple.
Barry Manilow reflects on writing songs — and making the whole world sing
by Terry Gross
Manilow was one of the biggest pop hitmakers of the '70s and early '80s. He now has a Broadway musical, Harmony. "I like emotional productions," he said in '02. I like to take the listener on a trip."
'SNL' actor Kenan Thompson says, 'I am definitely an ensemble-minded individual'
by Tonya Mosley
In his new book, When I Was Your Age, Thompson shares stories from his life and career, including his early days at SNL and his estrangement from his longtime Nickelodeon co-star Kel Mitchell.