EDGE Seattle

James Thurber (1894 - 1961) was an author and a humorist, known primarily for his drawings and short stories for "The New Yorker" from 1927 into the 1950’s. A revue of his best known work, "A Thurber Carnival," taken from the title of one of his book collections, ran at the ANTA Theatre in New York for 223 performances in 1960. Masterworks Broadway continues to open its archives and has released the soundtrack from the show on CD and digital formats for a look back at Thurber’s memorable creations.

Even though his most popular story, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" appears in the stage show, it is omitted from the recording due to length, and yet there is still plenty of fodder with which to experience Thurber’s dry wit. Interspersed with musical punctuations (featuring composer Don Elliott and his combo) are familiar pieces such as "The Night the Bed Fell," "The Little Girl and the Wolf," and Thurber’s anti-war statement, "The Last Flower."

The soundtrack is book-ended with two "Word Dances," a precursor to the "Cocktail Party" sequences that would become one of the signatures of the T.V variety show, "Laugh-In." Thurber himself appeared on stage in "File and Forget" during the run of the show, but unfortunately did not preserve his appearance on this release. Artists among the nine-person cast included Peggy Cass, who had won a Tony Award in 1957 for "Auntie Mame," Alice Ghostley ("Bewitched"), and John McGiver ("Breakfast at Tiffany’s," "The Manchurian Candidate").

The book insert is a mixed bag of information. Very little is included regarding the contents of the CD, but it does include six of Thurber’s drawings - simple, yet poignant sketches that support the aural performances within. This recording is an opportunity to become reacquainted with the work of one of the 20th century’s true literary masters.

A Thurber Carnival
CD & Digital formats
Masterworks Broadway / Sony Music