The Farnsworth Invention, a play by Aaron Sorkin at the Music Box. Starring Hank Azaria and Jimmi Simpson, directed by Dan McAnuff. The story of Philo Farnsworth who, according to the play, was the real inventor of television and how David Sarnoff, according to the play, screwed him out of the financial benefits and perhaps more importantly, the glory. This could be the stuff of good theater, and it is, but only to a point. The play feels brittle, there is too much lecturing to the audience, and not nearly enough interacting between the characters. In the end, there is no real character created, only history being told, but because the telling is by a master writer Aaron Sorkin, it's entertainingly told, tautly packaged, and best of all extremely well acted by Hank Azaria (Sarnoff) and most especially Jimmi Simpson (Farnsworth) who is like a young Henry Fonda in the part. A rewarding, if not great, evening in the theater, "The Farnsworth Invention" was worth the commute. Broadway Bridge and Tunnel test grade. B

The Seafarer, a play by Conor McPherson at the Booth Theatre. Starring Conleth Hill, Ciaran Hinds, Sean Mahon, David Morse and Jim Norton. Directed by Conor McPherson. Based on the two plays we had seen by Conor McPherson - Shining City and The Weir - we knew we were in for something good, but just how good came as a surprise to us. As in the first two plays, a small domestic drama mixes with the spiritual, and in this case, cosmically so. The second act rises to heights we've rarely seen, lifting the audience into the heavens and into hell. Yes, "The Seafarer" which begins deceptively slowly and mundanely is a flat out masterpiece. And this masterpiece is performed by a master ensemble. While Jim Norton gives an astonishing portrayal as Richard Harkin, his work is matched by David Morse (the villainous Detective on "House" who is here so vulnerable and sympathetic) and by the amazing Ciaran Hinds. The set and lighting is stunning and plays a vital, electrifying part. Of all the plays we've seen in what is the best season we can remember for new dramas, "The Seafarer" is likely to stay with us the longest. Broadway Bridge and Tunnel Test Grade A+