Lanford Wilson
Lanford Wilson: A Prolific Playwright of American Theatre
Full Name and Common Aliases
Lanford Wilson was born on April 13, 1937, in Lebanon, Missouri, USA. He is commonly known as Lanford.
Birth and Death Dates
April 13, 1937 - August 24, 2021
Nationality and Profession(s)
American playwright, screenwriter, and actor. Wilson was a pioneer of Off-Broadway theatre and one of the most celebrated American playwrights of his generation.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Lebanon, Missouri, Wilson developed an interest in writing at a young age. He began writing plays while attending high school and continued to hone his craft during his early college years. After dropping out of college, Wilson worked various jobs before eventually moving to New York City to pursue a career in theatre.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his illustrious career, Wilson achieved numerous milestones that solidified his position as a leading figure in American theatre. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
Founding the Off-Centre Theatre and its subsequent move to the Eugene O'Neill Theatre Centre
Developing the "American Play Company," which aimed to promote American playwrights' work worldwide
Creating numerous critically acclaimed plays, such as "The Hot L Baltimore," "The Mound Builders," and "Balm in Gilead"Notable Works or Actions
Wilson's contributions to the world of theatre extend far beyond his writing. He was a dedicated advocate for new play development and was instrumental in shaping the landscape of American Off-Broadway theatre.
His innovative work with the "American Play Company" helped introduce international audiences to American playwrights, fostering greater cultural exchange between nations
As a pioneering figure in Off-Broadway theatre, Wilson paved the way for future generations of playwrights and producersImpact and Legacy
Lanford Wilson's impact on the world of theatre is immeasurable. His dedication to promoting new play development and his tireless advocacy for American playwrights have left an indelible mark on the industry.
His commitment to Off-Broadway theatre helped establish it as a hub for innovative and experimental work, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in live performance
Through his writing, Wilson tackled complex social issues, offering audiences thought-provoking perspectives on American lifeWhy They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Lanford Wilson's quotes are often sought after due to his insightful commentary on theatre and society. His experiences as a pioneering figure in Off-Broadway theatre have granted him unique perspectives on the craft.
Readers appreciate his candid discussions about play development, collaboration, and innovation in the theatre world
* His reflections on the impact of Off-Broadway theatre provide valuable context for understanding the evolution of American drama
Quotes by Lanford Wilson
If you can no longer think about the future, and you once dreamed of everlasting love, don’t give up the dream, find it again.
After they had explored all the suns in the universe, and all the planets of all the suns, they realised that there was no other life in the universe, and that they were alone. And they were very happy, because then they knew it was up to them to become all the things they had imagined they would find.
Lots of my friends and family belong to churches, and some of them are part of the so-called Christian Right. In this preacher, I wanted to show a good man struggling to reconcile his commitment to the community with the political agenda of his church. He does not see that as a dilemma, but I do.
I deliberately look for colorful people. They're very right for theatre. Theatre has to be theatrical. If you can get color into the accountant, you've got something. Write the whole thing first and then say he's an accountant. That's a very wacky accountant, but so what? Theatricality feeds and challenges the actor, the director, and the designers.
If you can no longer think about the future, and you once dreamed of everlasting love, don't give up the dream, find it again.
I am one of the 11.5% of New Yorkers who remain traumatized by the events of September 11.
I haven't written a word - except for some correspondence - since last September 8, when I finished my translation of Ibsen's Ghosts.
But when I came back into the city for the first time last November, I thought every truck, every building was going to blow up. It has truly changed me something fierce.