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Marcel Marceau

48quotes

Marcel Marceau


#### Full Name and Common Aliases

Marcel Marceau was born as Marcel Mangel on March 22, 1923, in Strasbourg, France. He is commonly known by his stage name, Marcel Marceau.

Birth and Death Dates

Marcel Marceau passed away on September 22, 2007, at the age of 84.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Marcel Marceau was a French actor, mime, and comedian. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest mimes of all time.

Early Life and Background

Born into a Jewish family in Strasbourg, Marcel Marceau grew up in a cultural environment that heavily influenced his future career. His father was a textile merchant, and the family moved to Paris when Marceau was just six years old. Tragedy struck early in life as Marceau's mother passed away when he was only eight years old. He then went on to live with various relatives and eventually an orphanage during World War II.

Major Accomplishments

Marcel Marceau made his professional debut at the age of 18, performing as a mime in Paris' renowned Théâtre de la Renaissance. During World War II, he joined the French Resistance, where he used his skills to entertain and boost morale among soldiers. After the war, Marceau co-founded the Marionette Theatre with Jean Lanti, but it was not until 1947 that he created his iconic character, BIP.

Notable Works or Actions

Marcel Marceau's most famous creation is undoubtedly BIP, a mime character known for his exaggerated facial expressions and pantomime skills. The character was an instant success, allowing Marceau to establish himself as a global star in the world of mime. In addition to his solo performances, he also worked extensively with other artists, including the legendary ballet dancer, Maurice Béjart.

Impact and Legacy

Marcel Marceau's influence on the world of entertainment cannot be overstated. He popularized mime worldwide, making it a staple in many cultures' performing arts scene. His unique style has inspired countless mimes and actors to follow in his footsteps. Marceau also received numerous accolades for his work, including several awards at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Marcel Marceau's legacy extends far beyond his impressive list of achievements as an actor and mime. He is widely quoted or remembered due to his unwavering dedication to artistry and commitment to entertaining audiences worldwide. His impact on the world of entertainment has inspired generations, making him a timeless icon in the world of performing arts.

Marcel Marceau's mantra "silence is golden" perfectly encapsulates his approach to performance art: relying heavily on pantomime and minimal dialogue to convey powerful emotions and tell captivating stories. As such, he remains an enduring figure in the world of entertainment, with his work and philosophy continuing to inspire artists today.

In conclusion, Marcel Marceau's life was a testament to perseverance, creativity, and passion for the arts. His lasting impact on the world of mime has cemented his place as one of the most beloved entertainers of all time.

Quotes by Marcel Marceau

I have never been a victim of antisemitism - if you put to one side my war-time experience. That said, I am lucky not to have been sent into a concentration camp.
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I have never been a victim of antisemitism - if you put to one side my war-time experience. That said, I am lucky not to have been sent into a concentration camp.
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I was brought up in a Jewish home, but I was brought up to be human - not fanatical, which is something that I don't appreciate at all. I learned to become a humanist and not to dwell on the differences between Jews and Christians.
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I was brought up in a Jewish home, but I was brought up to be human - not fanatical, which is something that I don't appreciate at all. I learned to become a humanist and not to dwell on the differences between Jews and Christians.
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With time, art developed Bip, my alter ego. He was not only a lion tamer or a street musician but a soldier revealing the tragedy of ephemeral life.
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With time, art developed Bip, my alter ego. He was not only a lion tamer or a street musician but a soldier revealing the tragedy of ephemeral life.
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There is only one Marceau.
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There is only one Marceau.
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Bip is the romantic and burlesque hero for our time. Bip is a modern-day Don Quixote.
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Bip is the romantic and burlesque hero for our time. Bip is a modern-day Don Quixote.
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I am a company in myself. My repertoire has become a bible for all mimes in the world.
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I am a company in myself. My repertoire has become a bible for all mimes in the world.
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Dance is in the air, pirouettes, very difficult. Mime is on the floor, like Spanish dancing perhaps, and very often in slow motion.
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Dance is in the air, pirouettes, very difficult. Mime is on the floor, like Spanish dancing perhaps, and very often in slow motion.
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I don't want our youth to become anti-romantic. We have to make room for the soul.
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I don't want our youth to become anti-romantic. We have to make room for the soul.
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When you're in a play, 50 percent is the genius of the actor, 50 percent is the genius of the author. When a mime is not perfect, you see nothing.
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When you're in a play, 50 percent is the genius of the actor, 50 percent is the genius of the author. When a mime is not perfect, you see nothing.
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I started under my master, Etienne Decroux, who taught me a new grammar for mime he called statuary mime. This grammar brings style creations. Without it, no art survives.
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I started under my master, Etienne Decroux, who taught me a new grammar for mime he called statuary mime. This grammar brings style creations. Without it, no art survives.
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