THE RIVALRY

L.A. Theatre Works’ first-rate audio presentation brings to life the historic debates between rising legislator Abraham Lincoln (David Strathairn) and incumbent Senator Stephen Douglas (Paul Giamatti) during the Illinois Senate race of 1858, as seen through the eyes of Senator Douglas’s wife, Adele (Lily Rabe). The vocal performances of Giamatti and Strathairn are gripping as they speak text taken from the actual debate speeches. With humor, passion, and vitality but, thankfully, no attempt at impersonation, this expert audio production dramatically encompasses an assortment of issues, including human rights, state’s rights, and slavery. Delivered by two actors at the top of their game, the play perfectly illuminates two of the most charismatic politicians of any age. M.R.E. 2010 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2009]