Ayanna Thompson

author of “Blackface,” director of the Arizona Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies at Arizona State University

Ayanna Thompson on KCRW

When Shakespeare scholar Ayanna Thompson’s son was in third grade, his class worked on a year-long project about an influential historical figure, and they dressed up as those figures…

Why white actors have historically worn Blackface — not the other way around

When Shakespeare scholar Ayanna Thompson’s son was in third grade, his class worked on a year-long project about an influential historical figure, and they dressed up as those figures…

from Press Play with Madeleine Brand

More from KCRW

From easy, creative meals to the science of flavor to the best baking, these cookbooks cover a diverse array of topics — and they make great gifts.

from Good Food

Steve McQueen breaks down his new film “Blitz” (starring Saorsie Ronan), documentarian Dawn Porter talks Luther Vandross, and James Carville has The Treat.

from The Treatment

Leah Penniman and Reverend Lennox Yearwood share their passion for farming and explore the shifting landscape in the fight for environmental and racial justice.

from Life Examined

Filmmaker Malcolm Washington speaks on adapting August Wilson, film critic Glenn Kenny shares insights from his book on the story of “Scarface,” and Susie Essman has The Treat.

from The Treatment

LA's status as the entertainment capital of the world is under threat, as more production companies leave for cheaper locations.

from KCRW Features

Jude Law enters his lawman era (and joins to tell us about it), Aasif Mandvi talks “Waiting for Godot,” and Ilana Glazer has The Treat.

from The Treatment

Author Brad Stulberg shares hopeful observations from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, while also reflecting on the growing masculinity crisis.

from Life Examined

Comcast is set to spin off a slew of cable channels including E!, SYFY, MSNBC, and CNBC. What’s behind the move?

from The Business

Lobster rolls, puzzles, tableware, seed cannons, non-alcoholic wine, velvet mushrooms, barrettes, hand cream, books, and more!

from Good Food