The Art of Ruth Draper - Airs April 19th

Monologist Ruth Draper meticulously studied the people around her. She then spun these observations into rich, droll, poignant one-person sketches, which she presented at parties. She went on to travel throughout the United States and Europe performing on Broadway and at the invitation of royalty. In the mid-50's, when she was 70 years old, she finally reluctantly, submitted herself to be captured on tape. We will hear two of those very few recordings.

A German Governess with a Class of Children
An early work of Draper's, and one she continued to perform until the end of her career. Draper claims only two of her characters were based on real people, and this was not one of them. That said—she was indeed educated by a German governess.

Doctors and Diets
Four women are lunching at a chic midtown restaurant. All are on diets. While Draper portrays only one of them, we are convincingly transported right into their midst. Cures are hyperactively discussed, physicians cheerily lauded, and dear friends trashed—all with the very best intentions.

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