Why does everything get a standing ovation now?
Summary
Inspired by a listener's question, this episode traces the history of standing ovations from ancient Roman triumphs to Shakespearean theater. It explores how the rise of television and the "Big Lady" theory in 1960s Broadway musicals normalized prolonged applause. The discussion also covers the performative nature of long ovations at film festivals like Cannes and Venice, noting how viral clips of these moments can amplify a film's impact beyond its theatrical release.
Topics discussed
Ancient Rome and the origins of the triumph
Listener question: Why do we all stand now?
Episode preview and sponsor break
Shakespeare's groundlings and cued applause
Interview with Roger Gilbert on theatrical cues
Post-WWII rise of standing ovations on Broadway
The 'Big Lady' theory and Hello, Dolly!
Standing ovations at the Cannes Film Festival
Political power of viral standing ovations
Applause as human connection: The solar eclipse
Conclusion and credits
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