Theodore Tears from a Glass Eye [Live in 1955]

Beginning in California in the late 40s, Theodore hit his stride working small bohemian theatres in New York. His midnight shows had an enormously strong following, with most appearances being sold-out. His success brought him 36 appearances on the Merv Griffin Show, subsequently appearing with Dick Cavett on his show. Over 30 years, while Lenny Bruce and Lord Buckley died and theater- based purveyors of dark comedy like Nichols and May and Shelley Berman seemed in semi-retirement, Theodore retained a cult following, performing his monologues of guilt, frustration, and existentialist fear. Truly an original.

In the 80s he was rediscovered and appeared at least 15 times on Late Night with David Letterman. You Tube has many of these appearances, for those wanting to see Theodore in the flesh as it were. This recording made in Carnegie Hall on May 21, 1955 at Midnight is the only available recording of this master of fright and foreboding performing two of his classic monologues. Many of the sly quips of Theodore have entered the language. Can you recognize them?