What is it that we in the theatre give? Instead of images…
“What is it that we in the theatre give? Instead of images on canvas or in the form of statuary or music, we give our body, voice, feelings, will, imagination — we give a form of pulsating art to life itself; we give it to our characters and we give it to our audiences. Nothing, absolutely nothing remains for us save the pleasure of having given pleasure.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Theatre offers the performer’s whole self—body, voice, emotions, imagination—creating a living, pulsating art that gives pleasure to both character and audience.
In simple terms: Theatre is a full‑body, emotional, imaginative art that gives pleasure.
Key Takeaway
Offer your whole self in performance.
Themes
art
expression
pleasure
creativity
Mood
passionate
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- stage performance
- teaching acting
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
embodiment
imagination
emotional honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- How does giving your whole self change audience experience?
- What parts of yourself are hardest to share on stage?
A Different Perspective
May audiences miss the depth if the performer is detached.