"In many ways, theatre is more rewarding for a writer. I used to think it was like painting a wall - that when the play is finished, it's done - but now I realise it's more like gardening; you plant the thing, then you have to constantly tend it. You're part of a thing that's living."
About Lee Hall
Lee Hall — Life and Legacy
Lee Hall is a prominent British playwright celebrated for his incisive examination of identity and freedom, most notably through his acclaimed musical 'Billy Elliot'. His works often reflect the struggles of individuals against societal norms, emphasizing the importance of self-expression and personal authenticity. In 'Billy Elliot', Hall captures the conflict between passion and societal expectations, famously stating, 'The only thing that matters is what you do.' This quote encapsulates his belief that actions define us more than words or societal labels. Hall's characters often grapple with their identities, challenging the status quo and seeking their paths in a world that can be restrictive. Hall's focus on freedom is particularly relevant today, as he articulates the ongoing struggle for self-acceptance and the right to pursue one's dreams. His insights encourage audiences to reflect on their identities and the societal pressures that shape them, making his work resonate across generations.
Quote collection
Lee Hall quotes
7 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"Whether you are a writer, or an actor, or a stage manager, you are trying to express the complications of life through a shared enterprise. That's what theatre was, always. And live performance shares that with an audience in a specific compact: the play is unfinished unless it has an audience, and they are as important as everyone else."
"I always call Billy Elliot a fantasy autobiography because I never wanted to be a dancer, but I got a lot of stick from the other kids about wanting to be a writer and being interested in drama."
"From kings to groundlings, Shakespeare made his work profound for everybody. That is how it should be. There is no hierarchy in theatre. It makes everyone part of a collective."
"In a way, 'Billy Elliot' was autobiographical. I can't dance, but I think his dancing was me discovering about writing and literature."
"There’s no comparison. Veganism is the single most important thing that one can do today."
"Culture is something that we all share and we are all the poorer for anyone excluded from it."