Cecily Strong’s One-Woman Show, New York Times "Spelling Bee," The Story Behind 'Wordle,' Angel Bat Dawid On JazzFest, 'Amazing Grace', Weekend Roadtrip Ideas

All Of It with Alison Stewart | Jan 13, 2022

Actor and SNL star Cecily Strong is starring in a new performance of the acclaimed one-woman show by Jane Wagner, "The Search For Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe." Strong joins us to discuss her performance. "The Search For Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe" is running at The Shed through February 6.

New York Times digital puzzles editor Sam Ezersky joins us to talk about the "Spelling Bee." We also ask callers about their feelings about the bee. 

We are joined by New York Times reporter Daniel Victor, whose recent article, “Wordle Is a Love Story,” explores the creator and story behind the newest word-game sensation.

Clarinetist, vocalist and composer Angel Bat Dawid released a breakthrough album in 2019 and has since been an exciting jazz artist to watch. The Chicago Tribune recently named her "Chicagoan of the Year for Jazz." Starting Friday, she'll be the artist-in-residence at NYC Winter JazzFest. Originally scheduled for in-person events, the festival will now stream online through January 22. On Monday, January 17, Dawid will premiere her new work, "Afro-Town Topics: A Mythological Afrofuturist Revue." She joins us for a preview and to reflect on her career so far.

[REBROADCAST FROM APRIL 2, 2019] Producers Alan Elliott and Terrell Whitley join us to discuss the documentary, “Amazing Grace,” which made its theatrical release on April 5, 2019. This never-before-seen documentary follows Aretha Franklin while she recorded her live double-record of the same name in 1972. Today, January 13th, is the 50th anniversary of the recording of the album, Amazing Grace, at New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles.

Condé Nast Traveler articles director Lale Arikoglu helps us explore options for a weekend road trip. We also take listener suggestions. 

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