Welcome to our collection of insightful and inspiring quotes by the legendary actress and renowned acting teacher, Uta Hagen. Uta Hagen’s impact on the world of theater and acting education is immeasurable. Her profound understanding of the craft, coupled with her passion for authenticity and truth in performance, has left an indelible mark on generations of actors and actresses.
Born in 1919 in Germany, Hagen immigrated to the United States as a child and later became one of the most influential figures in the American theater scene. Her groundbreaking book Respect for Acting continues to be a cornerstone for aspiring actors, offering invaluable insights into the art and practice of the craft. Through her teachings at the HB Studio in New York City and her numerous stage performances, Hagen championed a rigorous approach to acting that emphasized emotional honesty and exploration.
Below, you’ll find a curated selection of Uta Hagen’s most memorable quotes, which encapsulate her wisdom and philosophy on the art of acting. Whether you’re a seasoned performer, a budding actor, or simply an admirer of the theatrical arts, these quotes are sure to inspire and resonate with you.
Once in awhile, there’s stuff that makes me say, That’s what theatre’s about. It has to be a human event on the stage, and that doesn’t happen very often. Uta Hagen
Usually, someone who’s in a show gets me a ticket. I feel cornered. I can’t walk out if I don’t like it. Uta Hagen
They still had the Lord Chamberlain, so we had this idiotic censorship. We were allowed three Jesus Christs instead of 10. Why three were OK, I don’t know. Uta Hagen
Awards don’t really mean much. Uta Hagen
Maybe the one I enjoyed playing most was A Month in the Country. Uta Hagen
I love going to the movies; I love watching good movie actors. They must know something I don’t. Uta Hagen
I love playing Chekhov. That’s the hardest; that’s why I love it most. Uta Hagen
We had a relationship that lasted 44 years. Herbert and I lived together 10 years before we were married. He always gave me a little heart for whatever anniversary. Uta Hagen
I think, by and large, the level of acting is mediocre. When I go to the theatre, I get so angry. I don’t go. Uta Hagen
Marlon was so sensitive, you thought the poor guy just had a bad education. Uta Hagen
I won’t go to England because they won’t let my dog in. Uta Hagen
If you want a bourgeois existence, you shouldn’t be an actor. You’re in the wrong profession. Uta Hagen
We must overcome the notion that we must be regular… it robs you of the chance to be extraordinary and leads you to the mediocre. Uta Hagen
We were not allowed to say, Screw, but we could say, Hump the hostess, because hump is in Shakespeare. Uta Hagen
I’m a bad liar; I don’t know what to say backstage. Uta Hagen
I have disassociated myself from that book. Uta Hagen
Working with Brando was fun. It was like a tennis match. We played unbelievably well together. Uta Hagen