BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary: "Class Notes: Jenny Lyn Bader “Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library”"

Release Date: January 14, 2025

Introduction to the Episode and Play

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, host Lauren Klasschneider engages in an insightful conversation with playwright Jenny Lynn Bader about her latest work, “Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library”. The play, staged at the WP Theater, is a fantastical drama set in Berlin, 1933, amidst martial law where political activism is punishable by death. The narrative centers on a Gestapo interrogation of a graduate student suspected of illegal research, who encounters the renowned thinker Hannah Arendt. The discussion delves into Bader's motivations, creative process, and the intricate collaboration behind the play's production.

Inspiration and Creation of the Play

Bader shares her profound interest in Hannah Arendt, highlighting her significant contributions to political philosophy, such as the concepts of the banality of evil, totalitarianism, and statelessness. She explains her impetus to dramatize a lesser-known episode from Arendt's life.

Bader (00:58): "I was already interested in writing something about Hannah Arendt... I wanted to recreate it."

Her inspiration stemmed from a 1964 interview transcript where Arendt briefly describes her arrest and encounter with the Gestapo officer, an account that captivated Bader and motivated her to explore this pivotal moment through theater.

Balancing Fact and Fiction

Bader emphasizes her commitment to historical accuracy while incorporating fictional elements to enhance the storytelling.

Bader (02:23): "I tried to fit all of my imaginative speculation within the framework of facts because you don't want people who really know a lot about history to be taken out of it..."

She meticulously researched Arendt's life, integrating factual events with creative liberties to construct a narrative that honors historical truth while engaging the audience theatrically.

Development and Expansion of the Play

Originally a two-character play, the script evolved into a three-character piece after a pivotal reading at the Museum of Jewish Heritage. Bader recounts how witnessing the play live revealed the potential for an additional character, necessitating deeper exploration of interpersonal dynamics within the story.

Bader (04:53): "I had to imagine a lot more about him because we knew so little about that person."

This evolution enriched the play, allowing for a more nuanced portrayal of the historical context and the individuals involved.

Collaboration with Director Ari Lara

The partnership between Bader and Director Ari Lara is a cornerstone of the play's success. Their collaboration began serendipitously at a wedding, where despite initial apprehensions about shared interests, they discovered a synergistic creative rapport.

Bader (05:15): "Ari is an incredible director... She's also a generative artist."

Lara's multifaceted expertise—ranging from classical piano to drama therapy—complements Bader's vision, fostering an environment where the play's potential is fully realized. Their joint endeavors include founding Theater167, inspired by the cultural diversity of Jackson Heights, showcasing their commitment to innovative and inclusive theater.

Rehearsal and Casting Process

Bader discusses her selective involvement in the rehearsal process, aiming to maintain objectivity and enhance the play's quality without overshadowing the director's input.

Bader (07:34): "I try to take some time off in between my presence and rehearsals."

Regarding casting, Bader maintains a collaborative approach with Lara, ensuring that selected actors align with the play's vision while preserving her ultimate approval.

Bader (08:45): "Ultimately, Ari's the one who has to work with the person, but I also have to approve them."

This dynamic ensures a harmonious blend of artistic direction and playwright intent.

Production History and Reception

The play's journey began with a reading at Luna Stage, directed and produced by Ari Lara. Bader recounts the initial enthusiasm and subsequent popularity, marked by sold-out performances and significant interest from venues across the United States and Europe.

Bader (09:10): "It was a very extraordinary beginning to the development process of this play."

However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these plans, postponing international productions and highlighting the play's timely relevance—a sentiment echoed by theater professionals who lamented the delay in showcasing its profound themes.

Timeliness and Pandemic Impact

Despite initial setbacks due to the pandemic, the play has resurfaced with heightened relevancy in contemporary times. The delayed productions now resonate even more deeply with audiences confronting similar political and social tensions, underscoring the play's enduring significance.

Bader (10:42): "Here we are with it being more timelier."

This resurgence speaks to the universal and timeless nature of Arendt's philosophies and the play's exploration of power dynamics.

Final Reflections and Questions for Hannah Arendt

In contemplating what she would ask Hannah Arendt if given the chance, Bader expresses a desire to delve deeper into the specific historical incident that inspired the play and to understand Arendt's worldview and perspectives on today's world.

Bader (11:00): "I would have a lot of questions for her about her kind of her worldview... we can't actually know for sure what she would say."

This reflection underscores the play's role in bridging past and present, inviting audiences to engage with Arendt's enduring ideas through dramatic interpretation.

Conclusion

Lauren Klasschneider wraps up the conversation by expressing gratitude for Bader's contribution and the enriching discussion.

A (12:14): "I'm Lauren Klassen Schneider with Jenny Lynn Bader, playwright of Mrs. Stern wanders the Prussian State Library at the WP Theatre."

This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a compelling exploration of historical narrative through theater, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship and passionate collaboration that bring Jenny Lynn Bader's vision to life.

Notable Quotes:

• Bader (00:58): "I wanted to recreate it."
• Bader (02:23): "I tried to fit all of my imaginative speculation within the framework of facts..."
• Bader (04:53): "I had to imagine a lot more about him because we knew so little about that person."
• Bader (05:15): "Ari is an incredible director..."
• Bader (07:34): "I try to take some time off in between my presence and rehearsals."
• Bader (08:45): "Ultimately, Ari's the one who has to work with the person, but I also have to approve them."
• Bader (09:10): "It was a very extraordinary beginning to the development process of this play."
• Bader (10:42): "Here we are with it being more timelier."
• Bader (11:00): "I would have a lot of questions for her about her kind of her worldview..."
• A (12:14): "I'm Lauren Klassen Schneider with Jenny Lynn Bader, playwright of Mrs. Stern wanders the Prussian State Library at the WP Theatre."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, providing an engaging overview for those who haven't had the opportunity to listen while maintaining fidelity to the original conversation and its critical insights.