Name: Four American characters
Uploaded: 2007-02-09T00:11:00Z
Duration: 22 min 51 s
Description: Writer and actor Anna Deavere Smith gives life to author Studs Terkel, convict Paulette Jenkins, a Korean shopkeeper and a bull rider, excerpts from her solo show "On the Road: A Search for American Character."

Writer and actor Anna Deavere Smith gives life to author Studs Terkel, convict Paulette Jenkins, a Korean shopkeeper and a bull rider, excerpts from her solo show "On the Road: A Search for American Character."

Anna Deavere Smith: Four American characters

Four American characters

Studs Terkel reflects on the 'gradual slippage' in American morality, hinting at a societal shift from human to robotic.

Using no props or costumes, a performance artist channels over 2,000 interviews to explore American character and race relations.

Through verbatim performance, a portrayal of varied American voices offers deep insights into societal issues and personal tragedies.