Harold Prince

Theatrical Producer and Director

Harold Prince was a renowned theater director and producer, notable for his innovative contributions to musicals like 'Phantom of the Opera' and 'Cabaret.'

Born
April 30, 1928
Died
July 31, 2019
Quotes
42
Rank
#2531

About Harold Prince

Harold Prince — Life and Legacy

Harold Prince was a pivotal figure in American theater, celebrated for his visionary direction and production of iconic musicals. His work on productions such as 'Phantom of the Opera' and 'Cabaret' not only showcased his artistic brilliance but also transformed the landscape of musical theater. Prince's core philosophy centered around the idea that 'The best way to make a musical is to have a great book,' which underscores his commitment to strong narratives. He believed that a compelling story is the backbone of any successful production, a principle that guided his innovative approach. His quotes often reveal a deep understanding of the emotional and psychological complexities of human experience. For instance, when he stated, 'Theater is a place where you can be yourself,' he captured the essence of theater as a sanctuary for authenticity and self-exploration. Prince's ability to challenge conventional norms and push boundaries in storytelling set him apart, as he integrated music and narrative in ways that resonated with audiences on multiple levels. Today, Harold Prince's legacy endures, as his insights into creativity and the human condition continue to inspire theater artists and audiences alike. His work not only entertains but also provokes thought and reflection, making his contributions to the arts profoundly impactful.

Quote collection

Harold Prince quotes (page 1 of 3)

42 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"The musical has always been in jeopardy - until - or was in jeopardy until it was realised that it is probably the safest living theatre art form."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I don't look back. I look forward and plan new shows. That's really feeding the most important part of working in the theater."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"A star may guarantee business, but the tradeoff is a very short run."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I have a terrible memory because I'm not interested in the past. It's done, it's done."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I got successful awfully quick, and I wanted it... But I do think there is responsibility to move the musical theater form forward. I think you always have to be aware of the work that came before and build on that."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"Audiences are quite happy to be astonished, and they don't care who does that astonishing."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I was there when the quote-unquote golden age of musical theater was flourishing. I met everybody who worked in theater or was famous in theater from the '40s on."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"It's a terrible shame if you're born the brightest guy in your class. If you're not, then you have to hustle-and that's good."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"Criticism is valuable... and self-congratulatory experiences are not."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"The idea that I have to be on the same side of the fence as Dan Quayle is cruelly depressing to me, but the truth is, I believe in family values."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I wouldn't want to be just pigeonholed as an extravagant director."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"Most of the big money people don't know what would interest an audience if you did it. They only know what interested the audience last time."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"The perfect expression of receiving a lifetime award is to be working when they're handing it out."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"We've got to find a way to protect the process of making musical theater."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I'm always glad to see somebody rethink something rather than reproduce something I did."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"You think, 'Musicals, they must always be romantic' - You'd be surprised how few of them historically have ever been romantic."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"Despite the successes, you remember the failures - rather lovingly."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I was nine. I saw Orson Welles in 'Julius Caesar.' It was involving, emotional, imaginative. I've never forgotten it."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I saw 'On The Town' about nine times. I discovered it. I loved it. I was in college."

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Harold Prince Theatrical Producer and Director
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"I'm a pragmatic man. I'll veer on the dangerous side, because I love dangerous subjects, but I won't shoot a show in the foot."

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