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An "Off Center" Review for an Unconventional Show

TV critic David Bianculli isn't sure how best to describe PBS's show Alive from Off Center, which features music, dance, and performance art--but little dialog. He recommends an upcoming episode about composer Meredith Monk called Ellis Island.

03:51
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Other segments from the episode on August 31, 1987

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, August 31, 1987: Interview with Ronnie Spector; Review of Sonny Greenwich's album "Bird of Paradise"; Interview with Benita Valente; Review of the television show "Alive…
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27:12

Ronnie Spector's "Unfinished Business"

The former girl group singer is making a comeback with a new album. Spector was the frontwoman of the Ronettes and former wife of Phil Spector, who forbade her from performing during their marriage.

Singer Ronnie Spector
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09:43

Soprano Benita Valente

Celebrated by critics and opera aficionados, the singer is finally reaching a larger audience with recent recordings, like her CD of Schubert, Hayden, and Mozart lieder. She joins Fresh Air to talk about her technique, and the differences between singing lieder and opera.

Interview

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Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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03:52

Tapping into a New Summer Audience

TV critic David Bianculli recommends two returning, unexpectedly popular PBS shows. Alive from Off Center showcases avant-garde performers and musicians, while American Masters features a diverse array of documentaries -- including, Bianculli says, some real masterpieces.

Review

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