Actors Quote by Fran Lebowitz
“The theater itself is so archaic and old fashioned, that it doesn't really matter to me whether it's on Avenue D or at the Helen Hayes Theater. What's the difference? It's still a very nostalgic form. Also, it means you're knowingly walking into a room where there's actors. I feel it's very embarrassing. Because, you know, they're right there. You always think like, they can see you, and I think it's mortifying, frankly, and I hate to sit near the front, where you feel they actually might see you. It's too ... it's too live.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Radio show, 1990s
She expresses discomfort with live theater, feeling exposed and embarrassed by actors' presence, yet acknowledges its nostalgic appeal.
In simple terms: Live theater feels exposing and embarrassing, despite its nostalgic charm.
Accept the discomfort or avoid the front row.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- going to a play
- choosing seats
- public speaking
- performance anxiety
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does audience presence cause embarrassment?
- Can you find ways to enjoy theater despite discomfort?
The feeling may be personal and not universal.