Cheryl Crawford Quotes

Powerful Cheryl Crawford for Daily Growth

About Cheryl Crawford

Cheryl Crawford (1902-1986) was an influential American producer, director, actress, and co-founder of the legendary Actors Studio in New York City. Born on June 17, 1902, in New York City to Jewish immigrants, she grew up surrounded by the arts and entertainment industry. Crawford's initial foray into theater was as an actress, where she gained experience working alongside notable figures like Orson Welles and Lee Strasberg. However, it was her behind-the-scenes contributions that truly left a lasting impact on the world of theater. In 1947, Crawford co-founded the Actors Studio with Elia Kazan and Robert Lewis. The studio provided an invaluable space for actors to hone their craft and learn the Method acting technique developed by Strasberg. Notable members of the Actors Studio include Marlon Brando, James Dean, Montgomery Clift, Marilyn Monroe, and Steve McQueen. Crawford's first major production was "Porgy and Bess," which she produced on Broadway in 1942. She continued to produce successful plays such as "The Iceman Cometh" (1946) by Eugene O'Neill and "Tall Story" (1950) by Paul Osborn. Crawford's direction of the original production of "The Crucible" in 1953 is also noteworthy. Throughout her career, Crawford advocated for artists and was a pioneer for women in theater. She continued to produce plays until her retirement in 1967. Her biography, "A Lamp for the Shoeless: The Story of Cheryl Crawford," written by Arlene Croce, was published posthumously in 1989. Cheryl Crawford's contributions to theater and acting education continue to resonate today, making her an essential figure in American theatre history. Her life, work, and influence are encapsulated in her quote: "I am interested in the human being and the truth that lies behind the words he is saying."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The theatre is a place for dreamers and idealists - and that includes the audience."

This quote emphasizes the essential role of dreams, imagination, and idealism in the theater. It suggests that both the performers (actors, directors, etc.) and the viewers (audience) are individuals who share a common trait: a love for dreaming and striving towards ideals. The theater provides an environment where these qualities can flourish, as it serves as a space to express thoughts, emotions, and stories that transcend reality. It's a place where people can escape from the ordinary and immerse themselves in something extraordinary, inspiring hope, empathy, and understanding. Ultimately, the quote highlights the transformative power of the theater and its ability to bring together dreamers and idealists, fostering human connection and shared experiences.


"Art cannot be measured; it must be felt."

This quote by Cheryl Crawford emphasizes that art, unlike other fields or disciplines, can't be quantified or judged based on objective criteria. Instead, the impact of art is deeply subjective and personal, depending on individual feelings, experiences, and perceptions. In essence, art connects with our emotions, stirring up a range of feelings that are unique to each person, making it an essential part of human expression and understanding.


"To an artist, the world is a canvas."

This quote by Cheryl Crawford suggests that artists view the world as a creative platform to express themselves. Just as a painter uses a canvas to create art, an artist in any field—be it visual arts, music, literature, or performance—perceives the world as an open space to translate their thoughts, emotions, and imagination into artistic creations. In other words, the world serves as the medium for artists to paint their unique perspectives and stories onto the canvas of life.


"Art, in my mind, is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit."

This quote by Cheryl Crawford highlights the essential nature of art in human existence. She posits that art is not an optional or luxurious endeavor, but a fundamental requirement for nurturing the human spirit. In other words, art is not just about creating beauty or entertainment; it serves as a vital outlet for human expression, emotion, and imagination, which are crucial elements of our humanity. Art, in this sense, is essential to our psychological, emotional, and social well-being.


"Every performance should leave an imprint on the audience's heart and mind."

This quote by Cheryl Crawford emphasizes the importance of a powerful, lasting impact that each performance should have on its audience. The performance should not only entertain but also resonate emotionally, leaving an indelible mark on spectators' hearts, evoking empathy, excitement, or profound thought. Furthermore, the performance should stimulate reflection and intellectual growth in the minds of the audience, encouraging them to ponder on the themes presented long after the show has ended. Ultimately, a successful performance is one that leaves a significant impression on the audience's emotions and intellect.


Lee's great gifts are teaching and inspirational guidance, not administration and management.

- Cheryl Crawford

Management, Guidance, Gifts

My major task was to keep us solvent.

- Cheryl Crawford

Keep, Major, Solvent, Task

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