In a political climate that is demanding the unification and equality of society, and amidst a time of injustice, war, and confusion, we need art more than ever. During this chaotic climate, the theatre community remains as a platform that advocates for peace, understanding, and raises challenging questions that lead us to evaluate our own thoughts and opinions, as well as challenge others. Below are 16 quotes from artists, peacemakers, and icons to inspire the actor and artist alike, and remind them why their craft can challenge ideas, inspire audiences, and change the world.
1. "When I was a child, I didn't say as most children do that I was going to become an actress. I felt that I was an actress and no one could have convinced me that I wasn't." (Antoinette Perry)
2. Good morning. Sometimes staying under the covers seems like the like the best option. I feel you. But c'mon, let's go see what's out there. (Lin Manuel Miranda)
3. Where better to escape trouble than a theater? (Medda Larkin, Newsies)
4. Leave a trail of people dreaming people dreaming about you in your wake. (Lin Manuel Miranda)
5. Everything you can imagine is real. (Pablo Picaso)
6. I want an actor who is hungry, someone who's been in the trenches, someone who's been unsuccessful. (Robert Askins)
7. Good theatre teaches. (Stephen Sondheim)
8. He doesn't bring an ego into the room. He brings an ear to listen, and that's what makes a strong leader. (Robert Wesley)
9. Labor therefore to increase the fire of your desire. (St. Catherine of Siena)
10. We were put on this earth to be awesome. (Mia Michaels)
11. I think artists have the incredible power to remind people of their worth. (Denée Benton)
12. Life is all about the graceful execution of plan B. (Celia Keenan Bolger)
13. You are Enough, you are so enough, it is unbelievable how enough you are. (Sierra Boggess)
14. Nothing's gonna change my world. (John Lennon)
15. We shall find peace, we shall hear angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds. (Anton Chekhov)
16. I love acting, it is so much more real than life. (Oscar Wilde)
