Play of the Week (TV series)

Play of the Week was a dramatic anthology television series that aired on the NBC network from 1959 to 1961, and then in syndication from 1961 to 1964. Each week, the program presented a different play, often adapted from stage productions or classic literature. It was known for its high production values and for featuring well-known actors and directors.

The series aimed to bring quality drama to a wider television audience. Many of the plays were pre-recorded on videotape, allowing for more complex staging and editing than live television allowed. This also allowed for repeat airings and syndication.

Notable plays presented included productions of "The Iceman Cometh" by Eugene O'Neill, "The Moon and Sixpence" by W. Somerset Maugham, and "The Winslow Boy" by Terence Rattigan. "Play of the Week" provided opportunities for many actors who later became household names to showcase their talents.

The show's legacy lies in its commitment to presenting serious and thought-provoking drama on television, at a time when many anthology series were moving towards lighter fare. It helped to elevate the reputation of television as a medium for artistic expression.