Jonathan Miller
Jonathan Miller
Full Name and Common Aliases
Jonathan Miller was a British actor, director, and comedian, best known for his work in theatre and television.
Birth and Death Dates
Miller was born on July 26, 1934, in London, England. He passed away on April 27, 2019, at the age of 84.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Miller was a British national and worked as an actor, director, and comedian throughout his career.
Early Life and Background
Born to a Jewish family, Miller grew up in London's East End. He developed an interest in acting early on and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) to hone his craft. During his time at RADA, he met future collaborators and friends, including Peter Hall.
Major Accomplishments
Miller's career spanned over five decades, with numerous notable achievements in theatre and television. Some of his key accomplishments include:
He was a founder member of the influential comedy troupe, Beyond the Fringe, which performed to sold-out crowds at the Edinburgh Festival in 1960.
Miller directed several productions for the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and the National Theatre, including _A View from the Bridge_ and _The Cherry Orchard_.
He worked extensively with Peter Hall, collaborating on numerous productions and projects.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Miller's most notable works include:
Beyond the Fringe: This groundbreaking comedy troupe, which included Miller, Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, and Dudley Moore, revolutionized British comedy with its irreverent and satirical style.
Theatre Directing: Miller's work as a theatre director was marked by his innovative approach to classic plays, often incorporating music, dance, and other non-traditional elements into his productions.
Impact and Legacy
Miller's impact on the world of theatre and comedy is still felt today. His legacy can be seen in:
Influence on British Comedy: Miller's work with Beyond the Fringe helped shape the course of British comedy, paving the way for future generations of comedians.
Theatre Innovation: As a director, Miller was known for his willingness to experiment and push boundaries, leaving a lasting impact on the world of theatre.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Miller's quotes and insights are widely quoted due to:
His Unique Perspective: Miller's experiences as an actor, director, and comedian gave him a unique perspective on the arts, which he shared through his writings and interviews.
His Witty Humor: Miller was known for his quick wit and sharp humor, often incorporating clever one-liners into his performances and writings.
Quotes by Jonathan Miller
I became startled by the extraordinary difference between something whose surface is completely invisible which only makes itself present by virtue of what it reflects, and a window, which doesn't make itself apparent at all, in the ideal case.
He's trying to use the strategy of Greenspan-speak - to temper homebuyers' euphoria,
Being a doctor has taught me a lot about directing. You're doing the same thing: You're reconstructing the manifold of behavior to the point where an audience says, yes, that's exactly like people I know.
I'm not against asking the audience to work, but I think what you have now is a sort of gratuitous deconstruction as a result of a fashion of literary deconstructionism indicating that there are no meanings.
