The Baltimore Waltz and Other Plays

'the baltimore waltz' has been one of my favourite plays from the first time i read it. this compilation has a wonderful variety and shows what range vogel has as a writer. 'and baby makes seven' and 'the oldest profession' are both a riot o laughs. 'hot'n'throbbing' is a disturbing yet much needed look at domestic violence. (i bet the NEA folks loved it. ha!) by reading any of her plays, you quickly see that vogel is a well read and intelligent writer (a playread as well as a playwright!) that expresses her opinions in a way that is clear aand inspiring. skip the introduction: the shmuck writing it has no idea what he is talking about and the plays are a better read.

This was the third play I read by Paula Vogel (How I learned to Drive/Mineola Twins). This play was amazing. Mixing humor and drama, I wanted to cry but couldn't stop laughing. This is a truly amazing play and I would recomened it to anyone who loved plays and loves theatre.

The depth and breadth of these plays go beyond the gender politics and current issues that lie at the heart of these plays--to say that "Waltz" is a play about AIDS is like saying that Moby Dick is about fishing! The plays combine a deft wit with a warmth uncharacteristic for plays with such style. These early plays suggest the talent that will make Vogel a major American playwright for years to come.

While I haven't read this edition, I highly recommend the works of Paula Vogel! She combines the best of humor and drama while exploring complex themes in theatrically interesting ways.