About this episode

Martin Sheen shares a moving account of his experience in Larry Kramer’s play 'The Normal Heart' during the AIDS epidemic.

In this episode, Martin shares a deeply moving account of his time on the London stage in Larry Kramer’s landmark play “The Normal Heart.” More than a personal artistic challenge, the experience placed him at the heart of a pivotal moment in history, as the AIDS epidemic was just unfolding. From receiving the unexpected offer from Joe Papp to his time in England, Martin recounts the remarkable journey that culminated in a life-changing breakthrough during one unforgettable performance. Told with his signature warmth, humor and compassion, this poignant story offers an intimate glimpse into a transformative chapter of both his life and the cultural moment in which it unfolded. The show concludes with the support of life-affirming quotes and a beautiful and haunting poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

People in this episode

Host: Martin Sheen

Topics covered

• AIDS epidemic
• theater
• personal journey
• cultural history
• artistic challenge
• poetry

Keywords

• Martin Sheen
• Larry Kramer
• The Normal Heart
• AIDS
• theater
• performance
• Longfellow
• cultural moment

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Normal Heart

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