A three-part exploration of the history of the Book Industry By Mark Pracht. Premeiering at City Lit Theatre, Chicago, IL, from 2022 to 2024.
Published by:
Part One - The Mark of Kane
“This robust new play reveals the writers and artists who launched an enduring icon of American popular culture, Batman.” - Chicago On Stage
In 1939, two young friends huddled in a Bronx apartment and created a legend. A hero who represents an enduring chapter in the tale of the American comic book. One, Bob Kane, would profit from that legend for years to come. The other would be all but forgotten. This is the legacy of the mark of Kane.
This play begins “The Four-Color Trilogy,” highlighting major turning points in American comic book history.
“Enormously thought-provoking, delightfully stimulating, and wretchedly heartbreaking.” - Around The Town Chicago
“Recommended for more than just comic-book lovers.” - New City Chicago
Part Two - The Innocence of Seduction
Coming Soon from
sordelet ink
The Innocence of Seduction examines the 1950s Congressional investigation into the supposed link between comic books and juvenile delinquency, and the effect of the investigation on the careers of three persons: William Gaines, the originator of the horror genre of comic books; Matt Baker, a Black closeted gay artist of romance comics; and Janice Valleau, creator of a pioneering comics feature starring a woman detective.