The World Only Spins Forward: The Ascent of Angels in America

Twenty-five years ago, Angels in America blazed on stage, winning multiple prizes (a Pulitzer for playwright Tony Kushner, Tonys for the Broadway play, Emmys for the TV adaptation). Writer and theater director Butler and Slate and New York Times Magazine writer Kois present the definitive history of this now iconic play in oral history format. Some 250 people involved with the creation and multiple performances tell what happened, why, and with whom. The play's birth was not easy; there were artistic differences, financial issues, and technical difficulties. The book begins with a look at the 1980s of Ronald Reagan and the subsequent AIDS crisis, reminding readers how much has changed since then. Next, the "building" of the play is revealed, the various actors discuss their roles, and the cultural climate of many years is gradually revealed. One of the most fascinating sections is the discussion of Roy Cohn, referred to by retired Congressman Barney Frank as "one of the most despicable people in American history who did not actually kill anybody." This gathering of the voices of actors, writers, and others is exceptional. The index was not seen, but it will be helpful given the number of people involved.