"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."
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.
"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."
"A star may guarantee business, but the tradeoff is a very short run."
"I have a terrible memory because I'm not interested in the past. It's done, it's done."
"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."
"Audiences are quite happy to be astonished, and they don't care who does that astonishing."
"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."
"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."
"Criticism is valuable... and self-congratulatory experiences are not."
"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."
"I wouldn't want to be just pigeonholed as an extravagant director."
"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."
"The perfect expression of receiving a lifetime award is to be working when they're handing it out."
"We've got to find a way to protect the process of making musical theater."
"I'm always glad to see somebody rethink something rather than reproduce something I did."
"You think, 'Musicals, they must always be romantic' - You'd be surprised how few of them historically have ever been romantic."
"Despite the successes, you remember the failures - rather lovingly."
"I was nine. I saw Orson Welles in 'Julius Caesar.' It was involving, emotional, imaginative. I've never forgotten it."
"I saw 'On The Town' about nine times. I discovered it. I loved it. I was in college."
"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."