Donate

Patter song

Sarah Stiles and Andy Grotelueschen in the Broadway production of “Tootsie.”

I am the very model of a modern Broadway patter song

Arts

The rapid-fire, tongue-twisting “patter song” is a staple of musical theater. Linguist John McWhorter explores the patter song’s history, while “Tootsie” composer David Yazbek gives a masterclass on writing one.

Donate today to kickstart The World’s fundraising drive!

Donate today to help us raise $25,000 by June 30 and help sustain our international reporting. All donations will be matched 2:1!

Donate today to kickstart The World’s fundraising drive!

Donate today to help us raise $25,000 by June 30 and help sustain our international reporting. All donations will be matched 2:1!

This is The World

The World is a public radio program and podcast that crosses borders and time zones to bring home the stories that matter.

Follow The World

Subscribe to The World’s Latest Edition podcast for free using your favorite podcast player: