Great Performances

Great Performances is one of many in a long line of quality series' from PBS. After springing up from humble roots, 2013 marks the 40th year of programming - making it the longest running anthology program featuring the performing arts. Playing off of the early successes of NET Playhouse and Playhouse New York, (which debuted in 1972), producer Jac Venza started Theater in America in 1974, which would officially change to Great Performances starting with the third season. Later, the Great Performances umbrella would branch out to also include Dance in America, Music in America, and Live at Lincoln Center. From Broadway to Rock n' Roll, Great Performances has successfully exposed the American public to many forms of music, dance and entertainment that they would have never had the opportunity to enjoy anywhere else.

Great Performances is commonly credited as debuting in 1972 with the presentations of "The Rimers of Eldritch" and "Hogan's Goat". In fact, the book titled "Great Performances: A Celebration", published in 1997, pegs the start as 1972 and celebrates the first 25 years of the show. At times, however, this seems to be contradicted with stories like the one found here. For the purposes of this guide, we will use 1972 as the start and reference only original air dates - and not include repeat dates. Additionally, if a production was aired under a different banner or Great Performances sub-heading, it will be indicated as well.
9/10 (1 Vote cast)