Best Line Wins: A Play Inspired by the Improvised Lives of Elaine May & Mike Nichols

Join us for an afternoon at the Contemporary American Theater Festival and “Best Line Wins.”

“Modesty hasn’t done much for women, historically speaking.” 

Nichols & May were one of the greatest comedy duos of all time, but when they parted ways, Mike Nichols soared while Elaine May struggled. The system wasn’t built for “difficult” women, but it endlessly rewarded “charming” men. Decades later, when Mike approaches Elaine with a new opportunity, she must wrestle with what matters more: succeeding on her own, or reuniting with the partner who knows her true worth. Set in the complex interaction of creativity, competition, and gender disparity, this split-second-timed, laugh-out-loud play by USA Today bestselling author and 2024-2025 Dramatists Guild Foundation National Fellow Beth Kander examines the power of lifelong friendship, thorns and all.

Following the play, everyone is invited back to the home of Dick and Kathy Klein (65 Watercress Place) for a potluck dinner and discussion.