The Originalist Audiobook

Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia believed that the United States Constitution is the most reliable source for a fair interpretation of the law as it is applied today. He was, in other words, an “originalist.” But aren’t the laws written over 200 years ago subject to interpretation—or even guesswork?

Edward Gero stars as the late Justice Scalia in John Strand’s insightful look at Scalia’s life and legal philosophy. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring Edward Gero as Justice Antonin Scalia, Karry Warren as Cat, and Harlan Work as Brad.

Sound designed by Jeff Gardner, based on an original design by Eric Shimelonis. Includes a post-show discussion about Antonin Scalia with Nina Totenberg, NPR’s Legal Affairs Correspondent; Tara Kole, an entertainment attorney who clerked for Justice Scalia; John Bash, an assistant to the Solicitor General at the United States Department of Justice; and Tom Goldstein, a Washington lawyer who’s argued thirty-eight cases before the Supreme Court.

Directed by Molly Smith. Recorded before a live audience at the Arena Stage, Washington, DC, in June of 2016.

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“The always provocative and often politically polarizing US Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia was infatuated with the exact meaning of words and the precision of language. What better grist for an audio play? Reprising his original stage role, the talented Edward Gero virtually becomes the jurist, who was celebrated for his razor-sharp wit, impressive intellect, and conservation tendencies. When the judge takes on a young, liberal African–American woman, played by a vibrant Karry Warren, as his newest law clerk, the ideological sparks start to fly. So, break out your copy of the US Constitution and follow along as some of the most contentious issues of our times are debated in this challenging offering from L.A. Theatre Works.”

— AudioFile