Woody Allen, the filmmaker and one-time Broadway playwright (Play It Again, Sam), will make a rare appearance in a theatrical setting on Nov. 25, when he introduces comic and satirist Mort Sahl, who will that day begin a run at Joe's Pub, the cabaret space off the Public Theater. Sahl will play five shows through Nov. 28.
According to a press statement, Allen has been quoted as saying that Sahl's act is the greatest thing he has ever seen. Sahl, the first humorist on the cover of Time magazine, has spent 40-some years delivering Will Rogers-style political satire with a gentle, coffeehouse demeanor. He began his career at the legendary "Hungry I" club. His trademark is coming onstage wearing a sweater (which, in the 1950's, was a big change from the traditional suit and tie) and carrying the daily newspaper.
Mort Sahl's America played an extended Off-Broadway engagement at Theatre Four in 1995, and then enjoyed two runs at L.A.'s Tiffany Theatre in 1996.
Tickets for all Joe's Pub performances are $25.
—Robert Simonson