Jack Paar is the host of The Tonight Show in 1958 and has his favorite guest, Oscar Levant, on his show. Oscar is a brilliant pianist, character actor and comedian, who is deeply affected by mental illness and drug addiction.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

OSCAR LEVANT A celebrated but troubled figure known for his comedic genius, piano virtuosity, and candid discussions about his mental health and addiction on live television. The play explores the duality of his public charisma and private turmoil.

JACK PAAR Current host of NBC’s The Tonight Show, Bob Sarnoff’s contemporary, and America’s smoothest talker and opportunist; recognizes Levant’s potential for ratings, but is also aware of the risks involved.

JUNE LEVANT Oscar Levant’s long-suffering wife; attractive and gracious under pressure; supports Oscar through his many hospitalizations and struggles with addiction.

GEORGE GERSHWIN Charming and rakish; has the most celebrated career in American popular music. Appears as a hallucination of Levant’s mind, representing the unresolved feelings of inadequacy and admiration Levant for the composer and rival.

ALVIN FINNEY A young medical orderly working in the mental ward at Mt. Sinai, with a droll sense of humor and serious ambition.

BOB SARNOFF The reigning president of NBC during television’s Golden Age; fearful of Levant’s unpredictable nature and the potential backlash from sponsors and viewers.

MAX WEINBAUM Jack Paar’s new production assistant, Sarnoff’s nephew, whose eagerness to please contrasts with his poor judgment.