In this episode of The Savoir Faire Audio Experience, we sit down with Douglas Carter Beane, five-time Tony Award nominee, acclaimed playwright, screenwriter, and director, to explore the legacy of American wit, theater history, and his celebrated revue Finding Dorothy Parker. Douglas takes us inside the creative journey behind Finding Dorothy Parker, a sparkling theatrical experience that celebrates the razor-sharp humor, cultural impact, and unapologetic brilliance of Dorothy Parker—one of the most influential literary voices of the Roaring Twenties. Compiled and directed by Beane, the show brings Parker’s poems, stories, letters, and essays to life through an all-star ensemble of Broadway favorites, weaving her biting humor with her deep moral courage and social conscience. We also dive into the storied history of The Laurie Beechman Theatre, originally opened in 1978 as the Downstairs Theatre Bar beneath West Bank Café. The venue has long been a creative incubator where legends were formed—hosting early works by Aaron Sorkin, nurturing future stars like Nathan Lane, Tony Shalhoub, Holly Hunter, and Mary Testa, and serving as a development space for landmark productions. Renamed in honor of Broadway icon Laurie Beechman, the theater has since evolved into one of New York City’s premier cabaret and concert spaces, recently redesigned by Tony Award–winning designer David Rockwell, blending late-’70s Times Square glamour with a bold, modern aesthetic. Douglas reflects on his own creative path—from discovering writers like Dorothy Parker as a child in a small-town library, to shaping iconic works for Broadway and film, including To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar. He shares insights into his writing process, the importance of finding a personal “way in” to every story, and why honoring artists who came before us is essential to keeping culture alive. Finding Dorothy Parker returns for a limited engagement at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on February 5 and 6, marking audiences’ final opportunity to see the original all-star cast perform this whirlwind tour of Parker’s legendary wit. More than a tribute, the show reminds us that behind Parker’s famously sharp one-liners was a woman who stood fiercely for justice, artistic integrity, and speaking truth to power. This episode is a must-listen for theater lovers, writers, creatives, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of art, history, and cultural influence. 🎭 Finding Dorothy Parker – Tickets & Info: 🌐 https://www.thebeechman.com 🔗 CONNECT WITH SAVOIR FAIRE: 🌐 Website: https://www.savfaire.com 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savfairemag/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Savfairemag 🎧 Like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who loves theater, literature, and timeless wit. 📩 Want to be featured or suggest a guest? Contact us at info@savfaire.com .
