"In essential drama, the ordinary becomes extraordinary."
This quote by Terrence McNally highlights the transformative power of storytelling in theater, suggesting that the seemingly mundane aspects of life can be elevated to the extraordinary through dramatic presentation. It underscores the belief that the essence of compelling drama lies not in grand spectacle but rather in human experiences and emotions expressed within an ordinary context. This perspective invites us to appreciate the depth and beauty hidden within our daily lives, encouraging both artists and audiences to find inspiration in the most unexpected places.
"The greatest thing a human being ever does is to hurt another who doesn't deserve it."
This quote emphasizes that one of humanity's most significant actions involves causing harm to someone undeserving, suggesting that such acts are not only damaging but also profound. It implies the depth of pain inflicted when a vulnerable party is hurt by someone who should have shown kindness or respect. The quote serves as a reminder about the potential power of human actions, particularly when those actions involve causing unnecessary suffering to others.
"Love is an act of heroism, and if we have had the courage to act with love, then there is no shame in our pain."
This quote by Terrence McNally suggests that love, when acted upon, is a brave and selfless act. It implies that expressing love can be challenging due to its vulnerability, yet it's essential for human connection. When we choose to love and are hurt in return, there should be no shame in experiencing pain because our emotional vulnerability demonstrates our courage and capacity for empathy. Essentially, McNally suggests that the pain that follows love is not a sign of weakness but rather a mark of our heroic attempts at human connection.
"I don't believe in angels, but I know that there are angelic people walking this earth."
The quote emphasizes that although the speaker personally does not hold a belief in literal angels, they recognize and appreciate the existence of individuals who behave compassionately, selflessly, and kindly, just as one might imagine angels to do. These "angelic people" bring light, hope, and positive impact to the world around them, making it a better place for all.
"Theatre is a place where the human heart is revealed."
This quote by Terrence McNally suggests that theater serves as a mirror reflecting the deepest emotions, aspirations, fears, and complexities of the human condition. By watching plays, we gain insights into the heart of humanity - its joys, sorrows, triumphs, and struggles - often in ways that feel more raw, immediate, and relatable than other forms of media or real-life experiences. Theater, therefore, provides a unique platform for empathy, understanding, and self-discovery, ultimately making us better human beings as we learn to understand each other's hearts.
Cheating is not the American way. It is small, while we are large. It is cheap, while we are richly endowed. It is destructive, while we are creative. It is doomed to fail, while our gifts and responsibilities call us to achieve. It sabotages trust and weakens the bonds of spirit and humanity, without which we perish.
- Terrence McNally
'American Playhouse' is very supportive of writers. That's really why writers like to write for 'American Playhouse' for very little money. They care about making your play, your script, not some network production. We're treated like playwrights, not like fodder for some machine.
- Terrence McNally
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