The Farnsworth Invention has finally found its way to Broadway and already, the show has made quite an impact. Cynics might say that the pull of the play lies in the presence of big names like Hank Azaria and Aaron Sorkin. However, the truth is that, the story is one of the most important in American history and covers far more than just the invention of television.
Who Invented the Television?
Ask that question to anyone today and there is a good chance that you will be met with blank stares. Yet, ask people who invented the light bulb or the radio and the answers will come far more easily. This is an interesting phenomenon, considering that the television is probably the single biggest invention of this century. It is an invention that is so powerful, it changed the very way people live and view the world. It has also become one of the most powerful tools in the world.
So why it is that, hardly anyone knows who invented it? This is precisely what The Farnsworth Invention investigates. The play deals with the life of Philo T Farnsworth, a genius and Mormon farmer, who made the very first successful electronic television. His story isn't just about the invention of the television; it is also about the growth of corporate America and the ultimate demise of the independent inventor. The play follows the legal battle that Farnsworth had over the patent with David Sarnoff, the head of RCA. Even though Farnsworth would win the lawsuit, in many ways, he was among the last of America's great inventors.
Death of a Hero
What makes The Farnsworth Invention so interesting is that, it also brings to light the change in perspective that came regarding inventors. Edison and others were not just seen as inventors- they were also seen as heroes who worked hard, from the bottom up. With little resources, they achieved the extraordinary and changed lives for the better. This, in everyone's lives was the sign of a real hero. However, things began to change when corporations realized there was money to be made in buying up the inventors and keeping the patents for themselves.
In The Farnsworth Invention, Farnsworth emerges as one of the few inventors, who wanted to see beyond the money, beyond the initial paycheck. Unfortunately, he was the last of a dying breed. Inventors needed money and resources and those with families relied on regular paychecks. With all these things, the corporations were more than willing to provide, as long as the inventors gave up their patent rights, sometimes for as little as a dollar.
Needless to say, The Farnsworth Invention is a touching and heart-wrenching tale of the little man versus the big corporation. We see someone, who has embarked on being an inventor not for the money, but for the love of inventing. His refusal to sell out or give in to a big corporation is inspiring, even today. Don't miss your chance to see a real American classic story come to life on stage. If you want to be sure of getting tickets, you can order them online. Contact an authorized ticket vendor for passes to see The Farnsworth Invention.
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