Working (1982)
A musical portrait of everyday American workers, drawn from Studs Terkel's landmark oral history and brought to life through song.
Working - Movie Information
- Original Title: Working
- Release Year: 1982
- Directed by: Kirk Browning, Stephen Schwartz
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Music
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Original Language: English
- Production Companies: Thirteen, KCET, Broadway Theatre Archive
- Production Countries: United States of America
- Alternative Titles: Studs Terkel's Working (US)
Working - Plot
This musical adaptation of the Studs Terkel book examines the average worker's viewpoint--showing that he or she is anything but average. Based on a series of interviews with real working people--construction workers, waitresses, firemen, secretaries, and cleaning women, Working is both an exploration of the individuals' occupations and a lament for lost hopes and dreams.
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Working - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Kirk Browning
- Stephen Schwartz
Main Cast
- Studs Terkel
- Barry Bostwick
- Scatman Crothers
- Barbara Browning
- Vernee Watson
- Jay Garner
- Billy Jayne
- Barbara Barrie
- Carole Schwartz
- Bill Beyers
Producers
- Phylis Geller
- Lindsay Law
Working - FAQs
What is Working (1982) about?
Working follows a diverse group of everyday Americans — steelworkers, secretaries, teachers, and more — as they reflect on their jobs, their identities, and their unfulfilled dreams. Based on Studs Terkel's celebrated oral history book, the musical weaves together personal stories through song, revealing the quiet dignity and quiet heartbreak behind ordinary labor.
Is Working based on a true story?
Yes — Working draws directly from real life. Studs Terkel spent years interviewing American workers across dozens of professions, and his 1974 book compiled those candid conversations. The musical adaptation brings those authentic voices to the stage and screen, making it one of the most grounded and human musicals ever produced.
Where can you watch Working (1982)?
You can find current streaming and viewing options for Working on JustWatch, which tracks availability across platforms in your region. Options may include rental or purchase depending on where you're located.
Who stars in Working (1982)?
The cast is a real treat — Barry Bostwick, Scatman Crothers, Barbara Barrie, Vernee Watson, Barbara Hershey, Eileen Brennan, Charles Haid, and Beth Howland all appear, with Studs Terkel himself serving as host. It's a remarkable ensemble that brings tremendous warmth and authenticity to the material.
Who directed Working (1982)?
Working was co-directed by Kirk Browning, a veteran of televised stage productions, and Stephen Schwartz, the acclaimed composer and lyricist behind Godspell and Pippin. Schwartz also wrote the stage musical adaptation of Terkel's book, making his involvement in the filmed version a natural fit.
Is Working (1982) a filmed stage production?
Yes, Working is a filmed theatrical production, originally broadcast on public television through KCET and Thirteen. It captures the energy of live theatre while bringing Schwartz's stage musical to a wider audience, preserving a production that might otherwise have been seen only by a limited few.
What is the runtime of Working (1982)?
Working runs 89 minutes — a tight, focused runtime that keeps the emotional momentum going without overstaying its welcome. For a musical with so many distinct character vignettes, it moves at a surprisingly brisk and engaging pace.
What are similar films to Working (1982)?
If Working resonates with you, check out Into the Woods (1991), Kinky Boots: The Musical (2019), or Victor/Victoria (1995) for more filmed stage musicals. For similar working-class themes with a musical touch, Mo' Better Blues (1990) and Honeydripper (2007) are also worth exploring.
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