Jews were never considered particularly funny until they fled Eastern Europe for the United States. Quite the opposite. But in this new land, they became a driving force in the development of comedy on stage, screen and television. What led to the change in perceptions—and fortunes? And how did Jewish heritage influence their approach to humor? Entertainment historian John Kenrick continues last spring's popular course celebrating a laugh-packed legacy of great comic performers and writers, with backstage lore and plenty of hilarious performance videos.
This course will cover Jack Benny, Bette Midler, playwright George S. Kaufman, Danny Kaye and others who kept the world laughing over the past hundred years.